Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive, then this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze is just what you need! This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with the sweet and tart flavor of Granny Smith apples and the creamy richness of Brie cheese. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. It’s simple enough to whip up after a long day yet elegant enough to serve to guests.

What makes this dish even more special is how the maple Dijon glaze adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements. It’s an easy way to elevate your dinner routine and bring everyone together around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can serve a delicious meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the combination of sweet apples and creamy cheese, making it a hit at any family dinner.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the chicken earlier in the day, so all you have to do is bake it when it’s time to eat.
• Impressive Presentation: The stuffed chicken looks beautiful on a plate, perfect for impressing friends or loved ones.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of flavors from apple, Brie, and glaze creates a delightful taste experience that everyone will remember.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You likely already have most of these in your pantry or fridge.

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Glaze

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp creamy Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp whole grain Dijon mustard (the kind with seeds)

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the cheese: Try using goat cheese or mozzarella instead of Brie for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Incorporate spinach or kale into the filling for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the fruit: Pears can be a lovely substitute if you’re looking for a sweeter alternative to apples.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat!

How to Make Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare everything else. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally to create a pocket—be careful not to cut all the way through. This step is crucial because it allows room for all those delicious fillings!

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Inside each pocket, layer those crisp apple slices followed by slices of Brie cheese. The combination of sweet apples and creamy Brie will make your taste buds dance! Once filled, fold the chicken back over gently—give it a little press to secure everything inside.

Step 4: Season Your Chicken

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme generously over both sides of your stuffed chicken breasts. This seasoning adds depth and enhances all those wonderful flavors we’re about to create.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, cook two stuffed chicken breasts at a time for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Searing locks in juices and builds flavor before they head into the oven.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your chicken is searing, whisk together maple syrup, creamy Dijon mustard, and whole grain Dijon mustard in a small bowl. This glaze brings sweetness with tangy notes that perfectly complement our dish! Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of each chicken breast with this tasty mixture before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

Transfer your seared chicken onto a prepared baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through—this will ensure that every bite remains juicy and flavorful!

And there you have it—a delicious Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze

Cooking this dish is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results possible!

• Choose the right cheese: Opt for a light Brie that melts beautifully, like those from Trader Joe’s or President brand. This ensures a creamy filling that complements the apples perfectly.
• Slice the apples thinly: Thin slices allow the apples to soften during cooking without losing their shape. This gives you a lovely texture and flavor in every bite.
• Don’t rush the searing process: Taking your time to sear the chicken until golden brown locks in moisture and enhances flavor. A little patience here pays off big time!
• Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee your chicken is cooked through without drying it out, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to enhance your flavor profile. Rosemary or sage could add an aromatic twist that pairs wonderfully with the apple and Brie.

How to Serve Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze

This stuffed chicken not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning on any dinner table. Here are some ideas to beautifully present your dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Apple slices: Arrange a few thin apple slices on the plate alongside the chicken for visual appeal and a hint of extra crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements the sweetness of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil bring a slightly bitter contrast that balances out the rich flavors of the dish.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing touch that pairs well with the stuffed chicken’s richness.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and salt provide a vibrant color contrast while adding crunch to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and helpful tips, your Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or for those who love to have delicious meals ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Wrap each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals until heated all the way through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie for the Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze?

Absolutely! You can substitute Brie with other soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to maintain that creamy texture.

How can I adjust the sweetness in the Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze?

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of maple syrup or opt for a sugar-free alternative. You can also add more mustard to balance out the sweetness.

Can I prepare Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. This makes dinner prep a breeze!

What sides pair well with Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a light green salad. These options complement the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken with Maple Dijon Glaze as much as I do! It’s a delightful combination of sweet and savory that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or just for a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become one of your favorites. Happy cooking!