Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

This easy, oven-baked Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish features juicy chicken breasts filled with crisp apple slices and creamy brie cheese, all drizzled with a luscious maple thyme sauce. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that will surely impress your family and guests alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish can be on your table in just an hour.
• Versatile Flavors: The blend of apple and brie creates a unique taste that pairs well with various sides.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe fits right in.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like apples and chicken, it’s both tasty and nutritious.
• Impressive Presentation: The elegant look of stuffed chicken makes it great for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or broil-safe skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Small skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken, ensuring it bakes uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken and preparing the apple and cheese filling.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling

• 1 honeycrisp apple, sliced thin into half moons
• 4 ounces brie cheese, sliced thin

For the Glaze

• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic (about 2 garlic cloves)
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, removed from the stems
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray a broil-safe skillet with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Cut chicken breasts horizontally to open like a book but do not cut all the way through.
2. Season the inside of each breast with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Layer thin slices of apple on the inside of each butterflied chicken breast.
2. Add thin slices of brie on top of the apples.
3. Fold the chicken back together to sandwich the filling inside.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Carefully transfer stuffed chicken breasts to your prepared baking sheet or skillet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until almost cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Maple Thyme Glaze

While chicken is baking:
1. In a small skillet over medium heat, combine apple cider (or juice), maple syrup, minced garlic, dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and additional salt.
2. Simmer until thickened by half for about 12 to 15 minutes.

Step 6: Broil for Finish

Turn oven temperature to broil. Brush glaze over chicken breasts and broil for 10 to 12 minutes until cooked through (165 degrees F internal temperature). Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm, drizzled with any extra glaze for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken!

How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

This delicious Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together leafy greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
• Arugula with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery flavor of arugula complements the sweetness of the chicken, especially when dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette.

With Starch Options

• Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice adds texture and pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that provides comfort and richness alongside the stuffed chicken.

Sauces and Condiments

• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce enhances the sweet and savory combination of the dish.
• Apple Cider Reduction: Drizzle a homemade apple cider reduction for an extra layer of flavor that ties in with the apple in the stuffing.

How to Perfect Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apples and quality brie cheese to enhance flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff: Ensure each chicken breast is filled just enough to close without bursting during cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165 degrees F for optimal safety.
• Let It Rest: Allow the stuffed chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain juices for a moist bite.
• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While brie is fantastic, other soft cheeses like camembert can also work well if you want to try something new.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Pairing sides with your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic create a lovely crunch alongside the chicken.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots add color and balance out the savory elements of the dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with quinoa, diced vegetables, and a light dressing offers a wholesome option.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach seasoned with garlic is both nutritious and flavorful.
5. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes add natural sweetness that complements the maple glaze on the chicken.
6. Herbed Couscous: Light, fluffy couscous infused with herbs makes for a delightful side that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season both the inside and outside of the chicken breasts for a tasty dish.

• Overstuffing: Adding too much apple and brie can make it difficult to seal the chicken. Use a reasonable amount—about 7 to 9 slices of apple and 3 to 4 slices of brie per breast works well.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the chicken for too long or too short can result in dry or undercooked meat. Always check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for perfectly cooked chicken.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Let the stuffed chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold brie can be harder to work with. Allow it to come to room temperature for easier slicing and better melting during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

• Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for about 2-3 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken?

To make this dish, butterfly boneless chicken breasts, layer sliced apples and brie inside, then bake and glaze with a maple syrup mixture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While brie adds creaminess, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella if you prefer different flavors.

What sides pair well with Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken?

Consider serving this dish with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that balances well with the sweet flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken up until baking and store it covered in the fridge overnight. Bake just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different herbs. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!