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This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with a maple Dijon glaze feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. The combination of sweet crisp apples and creamy mild Brie tucked inside tender chicken breasts is a real winner, while the maple Dijon glaze adds a beautiful sweet and tangy finish. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, making it a hearty yet light meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
I first tried this recipe during a family dinner and everyone kept asking for seconds. It’s now a go-to when I want something impressive but fuss-free.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: each about 6 ounces for juicy, lean protein
- One medium Granny Smith apple: sliced for crisp tartness that cuts through the cheese richness
- Four ounces of light Brie cheese: sliced to melt smoothly inside the chicken without overwhelming the flavor
- Salt, black pepper, and dried thyme: to season and add an earthy note that complements the fruit and cheese
- Olive oil: for a golden sear and a subtle fruity richness
- Maple syrup: for natural sweetness and to balance the tang in the glaze
- Creamy Dijon mustard and whole grain Dijon mustard: for that classic tang and a touch of texture in the glaze. If you can only find one kind, creamy Dijon alone works well too
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slicing and Stuffing the Chicken:
- Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Carefully slice each breast horizontally almost all the way through to create a pocket. Open each breast like a book and distribute the apple slices evenly on one side. Layer the Brie slices on top of the apple. Fold the other half back over the filling and press gently to seal. Season both sides of each stuffed breast with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Searing the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add two stuffed breasts at a time to avoid crowding and cook for one to two minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and gives the chicken a beautiful color and texture.
- Preparing the Glaze and Baking:
- In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, creamy Dijon mustard, and whole grain Dijon mustard. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of each seared chicken breast generously with the glaze. Transfer the chicken to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the Brie. Its mild creaminess pairs so well with the tart apples and Dijon glaze. I remember making this for a holiday meal, and the compliments kept rolling in because it looked elegant but was so easy to prepare.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to keep the chicken juicy and the cheese melty rather than microwaving which can cause the chicken to dry out.
Ingredient Substitutions
If Brie is not available, a mild camembert or even mozzarella can be used but the flavor will be less rich and tangy. You can swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter note. If whole grain Dijon is missing, just use all creamy Dijon and it will still taste fantastic.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken with roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple mixed green salad. Garlic mashed potatoes or wild rice blend make great hearty sides to soak up the glaze. A light white wine like Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the flavors.
Cultural Context
Stuffed chicken breasts are a classic way in many cuisines to add flavor and interest to lean chicken. Using apples and Brie brings a French-inspired twist with the creamy cheese and tart fruit combination that showcases simple ingredients elevated with thoughtful touches.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apple works best for stuffing?
Firm apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and add a tart contrast that balances the creamy Brie.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of Brie?
Soft, mild cheeses like Camembert or young Havarti offer a similar creamy texture and complement the apple nicely.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Brushing the chicken with a maple-Dijon glaze before baking helps retain moisture and adds flavorful caramelization.
- → Is searing the chicken necessary?
Searing seals the surface and creates a golden crust that enhances texture and flavor before baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them before cooking to save time on the day of serving.