There’s something so comforting and nostalgic about the flavors of autumn – the crisp apples, the creamy brie, the savory chicken. It all comes together in this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe that’s been a family favorite for years. I can still remember the first time I made it, the aroma wafting through the kitchen as the chicken baked, and the pure delight on everyone’s faces when they took their first bite. It’s a dish that just screams “cozy fall night,” and it’s become a go-to in our household, especially when we’re craving a taste of the season.
Table of Contents
Why This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
What makes this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe so special? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The tart, juicy apples perfectly complement the rich, creamy brie, creating a delightful contrast that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. And the chicken? It’s the canvas that allows these flavors to truly shine. This recipe yields 4 servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this mouthwatering Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into slices
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Instructions
Preparing Your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe takes 35 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a sharp knife, a cutting board, a small bowl, and a baking dish. Let’s get started!
1- First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2- In a small bowl, combine the diced Granny Smith apple, the cubed brie cheese, the melted butter, and the dried thyme. Mix everything together until well combined.
3- Stuff each chicken breast with the apple and brie mixture, using about 1/4 of the filling for each one. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly.
4- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and season them with salt and pepper to your taste. You’ll want to keep an eye on them as they bake, looking for the chicken to be cooked through and the cheese to be melted and bubbly.
5- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
6- Finally, serve your delicious Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast and enjoy! Each serving is one perfectly stuffed chicken breast.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast is a hit, here are a few pro tips:
- Make sure to not overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to fall apart during baking.
- If the cheese starts to ooze out too much, you can cover the dish with foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to help contain it.
- Let the chicken rest for at least 5 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 is the perfect main dish for a cozy fall dinner. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine – the flavors are simply meant to be! This recipe makes 4 servings, with each serving being 1 delectable stuffed chicken breast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftover Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
Creative Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Variations
Looking to mix things up? Try swapping the Granny Smith apple for a sweet honeycrisp or a tart Fuji. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or cheddar. For a seasonal twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup to the filling. The possibilities are endless!
Making Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can use a low-fat or light brie cheese. For a gluten-free version, simply skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative. And for a vegan adaptation, you can substitute the chicken with portobello mushroom caps and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. No matter your dietary needs, this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast can be easily tailored to suit your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart contrast, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a sweet-tart blend.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 4 servings, with each serving being 1 stuffed chicken breast.
Q: Can I prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re starting with chilled chicken.
Q: What should I do if the cheese starts to ooze out too much during baking?
A: If the cheese is melting out too much, you can cover the baking dish with foil for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to help contain it.
Indulgent Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in this mouthwatering Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast, where tender chicken is filled with a delectable combination of melty brie cheese and sweet apple slices. This impressive yet easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into slices
– 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Use a sharp knife to cut a horizontal pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. 3. Stuff each chicken breast with slices of brie cheese and apple slices.
4. 4. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
5. 5. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. 6. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side to create a golden-brown crust.
7. 7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
8. 8. Serve the Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast immediately, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
– For a creamier filling, mix the brie with a tablespoon of softened cream cheese before stuffing.
– Try using a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, for a variation.
– Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor pairing.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Chicken, Turkey & Pork Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast is a true autumn delight, and I know it’ll become a new family favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. The flavors are simply irresistible, and the recipe is so easy to make. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below! Bon appétit!
