Cranberry & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie

Mediterranean flavors meet festive ingredients — creamy brie, tangy cranberries, garlic spinach, and perfectly roasted chicken.

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Total Time: 40–45 minutes

🧾 Ingredients

Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Juice of ½ lemon

Stuffing

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup dried cranberries (use unsweetened if possible)

• 120g brie cheese, cut into thin slices

• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional but very Mediterranean!)

Optional Topping

• A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze

• Fresh parsley

• Extra cranberries

🍽️ Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast (do not cut all the way through).

3. Drizzle chicken with olive oil and rub with:

   • Oregano

   • Paprika

   • Garlic powder

   • Salt & pepper

   • Lemon juice

Set aside while you prepare the stuffing.

2. Make the Spinach Filling

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan.

2. Add garlic; cook 20–30 seconds.

3. Add spinach and sauté until wilted.

4. Stir in dried cranberries and nuts (if using).

5. Remove from heat; let cool slightly.

3. Stuff the Chicken

1. Add a layer of brie slices inside each chicken pocket.

2. Spoon the spinach-cranberry mixture on top.

3. Add another small piece of brie (optional for extra creaminess).

4. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

4. Cook the Chicken

Oven Method (best texture & melt)

• Place stuffed breasts in a baking dish.

• Bake 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) internally.

• Broil 1–2 minutes for golden tops.

Skillet + Oven Method (extra juicy)

1. Sear chicken 2 minutes per side in olive oil.

2. Transfer to oven and bake 18–20 minutes.

5. Finish & Serve

Remove toothpicks and drizzle with:

• Honey, OR

• Balsamic glaze

Garnish with parsley and a few extra cranberries.

Serve with:

• Lemon orzo

• Greek salad

• Roasted vegetables

• Mashed cauliflower or potatoes

🌿 Tips & Variations

Mediterranean Boost

Add:

• Fresh rosemary or thyme

• A bit of sun-dried tomato inside the stuffing

• A spoon of feta with the spinach instead of brie (lighter option)

Low-Carb

Serve with sautéed greens or cauliflower rice.

Sweet & Savory Twist

Use fig preserves or apricot jam instead of cranberries.