Bacon Cranberry Brie Chicken

Bacon wrapped cranberry brie stuffed chicken is the perfect way to dress up an ordinary weeknight. Each juicy chicken breast hides a pocket of creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce, then gets wrapped in smoky bacon that crisps up beautifully in the oven. These come together far more easily than you would think and always make a lasting impression at the table.

The very first time I made these was for a holiday get together and everyone reached for seconds before I could even plate a salad These days I make them whenever I need a dish that feels festive without any fuss

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: boneless and skinless the perfect blank canvas for stuffing Look for plump and fresh breasts with no discoloration
• Brie cheese: adds a creamy melty center Choose a wedge with a soft creamy inside for best results
• Cranberry sauce: provides a sweet tart kick Fresh or homemade is ideal but use your favorite For extra flavor avoid overly gelled versions
• Bacon: the star for a savory salty wrap Choose thick cut for a meatier bite and make sure each slice has good marbling
• Salt and pepper for seasoning: brings all the flavors together Use freshly ground pepper and kosher salt for even seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Lay each chicken breast flat on a board Use a sharp knife to slice lengthwise three quarters of the way through but do not cut all the way This creates a pocket that keeps the fillings inside

Season and Fill:

Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each breast Divide the brie into thick slices and spoon cranberry sauce to taste Tuck these into the pocket you just created Spreading them too close to the edges can cause leaks

Wrap With Bacon:

Fold the chicken breast back together and wrap each one tightly with bacon slices Tuck the ends underneath or use toothpicks to secure if needed The tighter the wrap the better the bacon will crisp

Bake to Perfection:

Lay the wrapped breasts on a lined baking sheet with the seam side down Place in an oven heated to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit which ensures both the bacon and chicken cook evenly Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the bacon is crisp and the chicken’s juices run clear

Rest and Serve:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it sit covered loosely with foil for about five minutes Resting lets all the juices redistribute so every bite is tender

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For me the magic always comes from the brie It melts just to the point of being gooey and brings a silky texture to the whole dish One year we served this for Thanksgiving and my dad still claims he likes it better than the turkey

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days Wrap each portion tightly or use airtight containers For reheating use the oven at a low heat so the bacon stays crisp and the cheese does not get rubbery Avoid microwaving if you want the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the brie for camembert if you prefer a different creaminess or for a sharper flavor try goat cheese Instead of cranberry sauce use a dollop of fig jam or apple chutney For a smoky kick sprinkle some smoked paprika inside the pocket before wrapping

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a leafy green salad For a holiday feel pair with herbed mashed potatoes or wild rice These also work great sliced into thick rounds as an appetizer on a serving platter

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Cultural Context

Brie and cranberry is a classic European pairing often found in festive or celebratory dishes Wrapping chicken in bacon is a tried and true technique used in American and British kitchens to lock in moisture and add flavor Combining all three transforms a simple chicken breast into a dish worthy of any celebration

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Seal the chicken carefully and wrap the bacon tightly. Don't overfill, and use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place if needed.

→ How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the bacon should be crisp.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the chicken up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad will complement the flavors nicely.

→ Are there alternatives to brie or cranberry sauce?

Camembert can replace brie, and raspberry or fig jam can be used if cranberry is unavailable.