Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the creamy richness of brie cheese and the sweet crunch of apples. This recipe offers a gourmet meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors, with the sweetness of the apple complementing the richness of the brie, all enveloped in tender, juicy chicken.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  
  

• 1 cup brie cheese, cut into small pieces
  
  

• 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced
  
  

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
  

• 1 cup chicken broth
  
  

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  
  

Substitutions:

• Chicken Breasts: Use turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
  
  

• Brie Cheese: Camembert or goat cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.
  
  

• Apple: Pears can be substituted for a sweeter alternative.
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, use a sharp knife to create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
   
   

2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced apple, brie cheese, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
   
   

3. Stuff the Chicken: Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the apple and brie mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
   
   

4. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   
   

5. Bake: Once the chicken is seared, pour the chicken broth into the skillet and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if using. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
   
   

6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with the pan juices for added flavor.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 32 g
  
  

• Fat: 20 g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 10 g
  
  

• Fiber: 1 g
  
  

• Sugar: 3 g