Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that feels both festive and cozy, and Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken does just that. Perfect for a chilly evening at home, a holiday gathering, or a special dinner with family, this recipe combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberries, wrapped in a juicy, tender chicken breast. Every bite delivers a burst of flavor that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic holiday flavors, reimagined in a way that makes them approachable for any night of the year. Growing up, family gatherings often featured cranberry sauces and baked brie, but I wanted a way to bring these flavors together in a simple, satisfying main dish. The result is a dish that’s as beautiful on the table as it is delicious to eat, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced

• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Toothpicks for securing the chicken

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; the goal is to create a cavity for the filling.

2. Make the filling:
   In a small bowl, combine the brie slices, cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and thyme. Mix gently until well incorporated. This mixture will provide a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet filling that perfectly complements the chicken.

3. Stuff the chicken:
   Spoon the cranberry-brie mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Use toothpicks to secure the openings, ensuring that the filling stays inside during cooking.

4. Season the chicken:
   In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture over the outside of each stuffed chicken breast. Drizzle with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and promote a golden-brown finish.

5. Sear the chicken:
   Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.

6. Bake the chicken:
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or move the chicken to a baking dish if your skillet is not oven-safe). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest before serving:
   Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures each bite is moist and flavorful. Remove toothpicks carefully before serving.

8. Serve and enjoy:
   Plate the chicken alongside roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle with any pan juices for added flavor. The combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and tender chicken is sure to impress.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Cheese options: Brie is ideal for its creamy texture and mild flavor, but camembert or even a mild goat cheese can work as a substitute.

• Cranberry alternatives: Fresh cranberries can be cooked down with a bit of sugar and water for a homemade sauce. Dried cranberries can also be used but soften them in warm water first.

• Make ahead: You can stuff the chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Bring them to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.

• Serving suggestions: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or a light couscous salad to balance the richness of the dish.

• Extra flavor tip: Add a sprinkle of orange zest to the cranberry filling for a citrusy twist that elevates the festive feel.

Why This Recipe Works

Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken hits all the marks for a perfect dinner. The combination of creamy brie and tangy cranberries creates a balance of sweet and savory that is hard to resist. Chicken breasts, while lean, remain juicy thanks to the stuffing and searing method. Baking in the oven ensures even cooking without over-drying. This dish also feels elegant, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Unlike more complex holiday dishes that require multiple steps or last-minute preparations, this recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor. It’s also customizable: you can swap herbs, adjust the sweetness of the cranberry, or add extra layers of texture with nuts or breadcrumbs. The flexibility of this recipe is part of what makes it so appealing.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken

1. Don’t overstuff: Too much filling can cause the chicken to burst during cooking. Keep it moderate for the best results.

2. Even thickness: Pound chicken breasts slightly if they are uneven in thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents undercooked centers.

3. Toothpick removal: Always remove toothpicks before serving, but do it after resting so the chicken doesn’t lose its shape.

4. Cheese melting: If your brie slices are thick, consider cutting them into smaller pieces so they melt evenly.

5. Pan selection: An oven-safe skillet makes the transition from stovetop to oven seamless, but any baking dish will work if you don’t have one.

Variations to Try

• Apple Brie Chicken: Add thin apple slices with the cranberry-brie filling for a slightly tart and sweet contrast.

• Nutty Twist: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

• Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for rosemary or sage for a more aromatic experience.

• Savory-Sweet Combo: Drizzle a touch of honey over the chicken just before serving to enhance the cranberry sweetness.

• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Combine brie with mozzarella or gouda for an even cheesier filling.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain juiciness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the chicken rubbery.

• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked stuffed chicken for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Pairing Ideas

• Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans almondine, or glazed carrots

• Grains: Garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a light couscous salad

• Salads: A fresh arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness

• Sauces: While the filling provides a lot of flavor, a light drizzle of balsamic reduction or a simple pan sauce can elevate the dish further

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors that feel indulgent but are easy to prepare. Its presentation alone can wow guests, while the simplicity of ingredients and method makes it accessible even for weeknight cooking.

This recipe is also versatile. It fits perfectly into holiday menus, but it’s just as suitable for a quiet evening when you want something special. The balance of flavors makes it memorable without overwhelming the palate, and it’s the type of dish that often becomes a requested favorite in any household.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep or preparing ahead for a special occasion. You can stuff the chicken breasts with the brie and cranberry mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Keep them covered in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then follow the searing and baking instructions. Preparing the chicken ahead of time not only saves time on the day of cooking but also allows the flavors to meld slightly, enhancing the overall taste.

2. Can I substitute the brie or cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! While brie is ideal for its creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor, you can substitute it with camembert, mozzarella, or even a mild goat cheese. Each alternative will give the dish a slightly different flavor profile but will still maintain the creamy, melty texture. For the cranberry sauce, you can use store-bought or homemade versions. If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water or a little orange juice for 10–15 minutes to soften before adding to the filling. These substitutions allow flexibility while keeping the recipe delicious.

3. How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy and the cheese doesn’t spill out?
To keep the chicken moist, it’s important to sear it briefly on the stovetop before baking. This locks in the juices and gives the exterior a golden-brown crust. When stuffing, avoid overfilling the chicken breasts; too much filling can cause the chicken to split during cooking. Use toothpicks to secure the openings and remove them only after the chicken has rested post-baking. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

4. What should I serve with this stuffed chicken?
Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, green beans, or carrots complement the richness of the filling. Creamy mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a light couscous salad provide a satisfying base. For a fresher option, serve with a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the creamy, tangy flavors. Additionally, a light drizzle of pan juices or a simple balsamic reduction can enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation, making it feel even more festive.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring a touch of elegance and comfort to your dinner table, Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken is a perfect choice. It combines the best of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in a single, visually stunning dish. From the initial sear to the melty, flavorful filling, this recipe is designed to impress while remaining approachable.

Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a cozy family dinner, or a special occasion, this chicken dish hits all the right notes. Give it a try, and you’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also creates a sense of warmth and joy at the table—a true culinary hug in every bite.

Cheesy Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A cozy and elegant dish perfect for a family dinner or a festive occasion. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth combination of flavors that’s both comforting and impressive.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 4 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced

• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Toothpicks for securing the chicken

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting all the way through.

• In a small bowl, mix brie, cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and thyme until well combined.

• Spoon the filling into each chicken breast pocket and secure with toothpicks.

• Combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then rub over the outside of each chicken breast. Drizzle with olive oil.

• Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

• Transfer skillet to the oven (or place chicken in a baking dish) and bake 20–25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• Remove chicken from oven and rest 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.

• Serve with roasted vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes, drizzling with pan juices if desired.

Notes

• Substitute brie with camembert, mozzarella, or mild goat cheese if desired.

• Use fresh cranberries cooked down with sugar or dried cranberries softened in warm water as alternatives.

• Make ahead by stuffing chicken up to 24 hours in advance; bring to room temperature before cooking.

• Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

• Add a sprinkle of orange zest to the filling for a citrusy twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Michelle Davis