Cranberry Spinach Filled Chicken

Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken Brie delivers a gorgeous combination of sweetness from cranberries, earthiness from spinach, and creaminess from brie, making it a show-stopping gluten-free main dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe became a family favorite after I served it at a holiday gathering, and everyone kept asking for seconds. Now, it’s my go-to dinner when I want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Main Components

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: a perfect blank canvas that lets the stuffing shine
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves: adds a vibrant and healthy layer to the filling
• 0.5 cup dried cranberries: unsweetened for natural sweetness without overpowering the dish
• 115 grams brie cheese: rind removed, sliced for creaminess that melts beautifully into the filling

Seasoning and Assembly

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: to help achieve a golden crust while keeping the chicken moist
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: infuses subtle garlicky depth throughout the dish
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: elevates the flavor with its earthy and aromatic notes
• 1 teaspoon paprika: for a touch of warmth and subtle smokiness
• Salt: to taste, essential for seasoning the chicken evenly
• Freshly ground black pepper: to taste, enhances and balances all the flavors
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine: necessary for securing the stuffed chicken

How To Make Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken Brie

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 190°C in preparation for baking the seared chicken.

Prepare the Chicken Pockets:

Using a sharp knife, create a deep pocket along the thickest part of each chicken breast. Be sure to cut carefully without slicing all the way through so the filling can stay secure.

Stuff the Chicken:

Layer fresh spinach leaves, dried cranberries, and slices of brie cheese evenly into the pockets. Stuff generously, making sure each flavor will be present in every bite. Secure the pocket with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold everything in place.

Season the Chicken:

Rub the chicken breasts thoroughly with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper on all sides for bold and balanced seasoning.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it develops a golden crust. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor.

Bake to Perfection:

Transition the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the filling is beautifully gooey and melted.

Spinach is my favorite aspect of this filling since, even in a rich dish like this, it adds a light and fresh note. My kids call this “fancy chicken,” and it always makes me proud that they finish their entire plates every time I serve it.

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 180°C to gently warm without drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap brie with goat cheese for a tangier profile. You can also use fresh arugula in place of spinach for a peppery note, or choose sweetened cranberries if you prefer extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted root vegetables or a light side salad for a well-rounded meal. Garlic mashed potatoes also complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Cultural and Historical Context

This elegant dish is inspired by modern European cuisine where stuffing proteins with cheese and greens is a common way to elevate simple ingredients. Brie and cranberries bring a decidedly French twist to the concept.

From personal experience, this recipe shines when paired with festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas, but I also love making it for a cozy family dinner on a quiet Saturday night. It’s one of those comfort dishes with a touch of elegance.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

To prevent the filling from leaking, secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Ensure the pocket is deep enough to hold the filling securely.

→ Can I substitute the brie cheese?

Yes, you can replace brie with other creamy cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ What can I serve alongside stuffed chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the stuffed chicken up to a day ahead. Store in the refrigerator and cook just before serving for the best taste.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, omit the brie and replace with a plant-based cheese or skip the cheese entirely, focusing on the spinach and cranberry filling.