Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a delightful and unique dish, look no further than Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze. This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of apples and the creaminess of Brie cheese, all topped with a tangy maple Dijon glaze. The result is a flavorful and elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is a perfect fusion of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken breasts provide a hearty base, while the Granny Smith apples add a refreshing crunch. The Brie cheese melts into a luscious filling, creating a rich and savory experience. Topped with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze, this stuffed chicken is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s an excellent choice for dinner parties, family gatherings, or simply a weeknight meal that feels special.
How to Make Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
Making this dish is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you’ll create a show-stopping meal that tastes gourmet. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each, 24 oz total)
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 4 oz light Brie cheese, sliced (Trader Joe’s or President brand works well)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp creamy Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp whole grain Dijon mustard (the kind with seeds)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice each breast horizontally, creating a pocket (don’t cut all the way through). Open the breasts like a book.
- Evenly distribute the apple slices inside the chicken breasts. Top with the Brie slices, then fold the chicken back over the filling, gently pressing to secure the stuffed breasts.
- Season both sides of the stuffed chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches (2 breasts at a time) for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, creamy Dijon mustard, and whole grain Dijon mustard. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the chicken with the glaze.
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked through.
How to Serve Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a fresh green salad. For an elegant touch, garnish with some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
How to Store Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the chicken, but it’s best to do so without the glaze. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
- Make sure to use a good quality Brie cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup in the glaze according to your sweetness preference.
- For added flavor, you can include walnuts or pecans in the apple and Brie filling.
Variations
- Substitute the Granny Smith apple with a different variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste.
- If you don’t have Brie cheese, cream cheese or goat cheese can be used as an alternative.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time to ensure thorough cooking.
2. Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it ahead of time, then bake it just before serving.
3. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! This dish can be grilled; just manage the heat and cook it thoroughly to avoid drying out.
Try this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze for a deliciously unique experience that’s sure to be a hit at your table! Happy cooking!
Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each, 24 oz total)
- 1 medium Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 4 oz light Brie cheese, sliced (Trader Joe’s or President brand works well)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp creamy Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp whole grain Dijon mustard (the kind with seeds)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice each breast horizontally, creating a pocket (don’t cut all the way through). Open the breasts like a book.
- Evenly distribute the apple slices inside the chicken breasts. Top with the Brie slices, then fold the chicken back over the filling, gently pressing to secure the stuffed breasts.
- Season both sides of the stuffed chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches (2 breasts at a time) for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, creamy Dijon mustard, and whole grain Dijon mustard. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the chicken with the glaze.
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked through.
