Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and discovering a molten center of creamy brie and sweet, tender apples that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Apple Brie Stuffed Chicken is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet restaurant-worthy masterpiece. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever cooking techniques, you'll create a dish that looks impressive, tastes extraordinary, and will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup brie cheese, cubed
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a horizontal pocket in each chicken breast by cutting a slit along the side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a small bowl, mix the cubed brie cheese, diced apple, and fresh thyme. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the brie and apple mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
- Secure the openings of the chicken breasts with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet with the chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before removing the toothpicks.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional fresh thyme leaves.
Tips
- Choose the right brie: Look for a soft, creamy brie that melts beautifully. Room temperature cheese will blend more easily.
- Ensure even stuffing: When creating the pocket in the chicken, be careful not to cut all the way through. A clean, even cut helps prevent the filling from leaking.
- Prevent dryness: Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in moisture and creates a beautiful golden exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Optional enhancement: For extra flavor, consider adding a light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted nuts over the chicken before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 410kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 41g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 135mg
