Growing up, my mom always knew the way to my heart – through her homemade Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast. The aroma of the baked chicken, the melty brie, and the sweet caramelized apples would fill our kitchen, making my mouth water every single time. It was a dish that just screamed “comfort food” and brought a sense of warmth and togetherness to our family dinners. To this day, it’s still one of my all-time favorite meals, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you.
Why This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe is truly special because it combines the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. The chicken breasts are stuffed with a mouthwatering mixture of tart apples, rich brie cheese, and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. What’s more, this recipe yields 4 servings, so you can enjoy it with your family or have leftovers for delicious lunches throughout the week.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup diced Granny Smith apples
- 4 ounces brie cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Instructions
Preparing Your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe takes 45 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a sharp knife, a cutting board, a mixing bowl, and a baking dish to make this delicious Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket for the filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced Granny Smith apples, cubed brie cheese, chopped fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with the apple and brie mixture, dividing it evenly among the 4 servings.
4- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6- Remove the Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breasts from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes, and then serve hot, garnished with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast turns out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use firm, tart Granny Smith apples for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Make sure to not cut the chicken breasts all the way through when creating the pocket – you want to leave a “hinge” to keep the filling inside.
- Don’t overstuff the chicken breasts, as the filling can ooze out during baking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving and Storing Your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
Perfect Pairings for Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple rice or quinoa pilaf. For a complete meal, it’s also delicious alongside a crisp white wine or a light, fruity sangria. Remember, this recipe makes 4 servings, with each serving being 1 chicken breast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftovers of this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a baking dish and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the uncooked, stuffed chicken breasts for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
Creative Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Variations
While this classic Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast is a winner, you can also get creative with different flavor combinations. Try swapping the Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or Fuji, or use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or gorgonzola. You can also add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
Making Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can substitute the brie cheese with a low-fat or dairy-free cheese alternative. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the filling. And for a lower-carb option, you can omit the apples and instead stuff the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a small amount of cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tart flavor and firm texture, you can certainly experiment with other varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that different apples may have different cooking times and levels of sweetness.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 4 servings, with each serving being 1 chicken breast.
Q: Can I prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and then bake them when ready to serve. Simply stuff the chicken breasts, place them in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: What’s the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through?
A: The key to perfectly cooked chicken is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This will ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to consume.
The Best Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a delectable blend of sweet apples and creamy brie cheese. This recipe is a comforting and delicious dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 oz brie cheese, cubed
– 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast.
3. 3. In a small bowl, combine the brie cheese, diced apples, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. 4. Stuff the cheese and apple mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts.
5. 5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
6. 6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For best results, use a firm, tart apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. You can also try different cheese varieties, such as gouda or cheddar. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited about this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe as I am! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations and thoughts in the comments below. Enjoy!
