Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken (Print Format)

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with tangy cranberries, fresh spinach, and melted brie brings a deliciously balanced dish to your table.

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thick

→ Filling

02 - 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
03 - 2 tbsp dried cranberries, unsweetened if possible
04 - 3 oz brie cheese, sliced

→ Seasonings & Oil

05 - 1 tbsp olive oil
06 - 1 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1 tsp dried thyme
08 - 1 tsp paprika
09 - 0.5 tsp salt
10 - 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Tools

11 - Toothpicks or kitchen twine

# Steps:

01 - Set oven to 375°F (190°C) to be fully heated before baking the chicken.
02 - Lay each chicken breast flat and slice a deep horizontal pocket on the thickest side, careful not to cut through entirely.
03 - Open each pocket gently and layer with fresh spinach, followed by dried cranberries and sliced brie, pressing the filling deep inside. Secure openings with toothpicks or twine.
04 - Drizzle olive oil over stuffed breasts and rub to coat evenly. Sprinkle garlic powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper over all sides.
05 - Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown to lock in juices.
06 - Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted.
07 - Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Remove toothpicks or twine and serve warm.

# Tips:

01 - Searing before baking adds depth of flavor and seals moisture inside the chicken.
02 - Resting after baking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy results.
03 - This dish is naturally gluten free and suitable for sensitive diets.
04 - Leftovers taste excellent cold or reheated, perfect for salads or sandwiches.