Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cranberry and Brie

### Instructions for Making Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cranberry and Brie:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
– Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
– Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal cut along the side of each chicken breast, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create enough space to stuff the filling without opening the breast completely.
– Season the chicken breasts on both sides with **salt**, **pepper**, and **fresh rosemary** (or dried rosemary). If you like a bit of extra tang, you can brush each chicken breast with **Dijon mustard**.

#### Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
– In a small bowl, mix together the **Brie cheese** and **cranberry sauce**. If you’re using fresh cranberries, you can sauté them with a touch of sugar or honey to bring out their sweetness.
– Spoon the cranberry and Brie mixture into the pocket of each chicken breast, being careful not to overstuff. You want enough filling to create a flavorful bite but not so much that it spills out during cooking.

#### Step 3: Secure the Chicken Breasts
– Use **toothpicks** or **kitchen twine** to secure the chicken breasts and keep the stuffing inside while cooking. You can also lightly press down on the chicken to help seal it.

#### Step 4: Sear the Chicken
– Heat the **olive oil** in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about **2–3 minutes per side** until golden brown. This will help lock in the juices and give the chicken a nice, crispy exterior.

#### Step 5: Bake the Chicken
– Once the chicken breasts are seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for **20–25 minutes**, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of **165°F (74°C)** and is cooked through. The cheese should be melted and the filling should be bubbly.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
– Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for **5 minutes** before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays tender.
– Garnish with a sprinkle of **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and freshness.
– Serve your stuffed chicken breast with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

### Tips for Perfect Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cranberry and Brie:
1. **Use Room Temperature Cheese**: For easier stuffing, allow the Brie cheese to come to room temperature. This makes it softer and easier to mix with the cranberries.
2. **Sear the Chicken First**: Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in the flavors and juices, giving the chicken a crispy, flavorful exterior.
3. **Customize the Filling**: Feel free to add more ingredients to the stuffing, like **chopped nuts** (walnuts or pecans), **spinach**, or a touch of **garlic** for extra flavor.
4. **Watch the Temperature**: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of **165°F** to be safe for consumption.

### Why You Should Try Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cranberry and Brie:
– **Elegant and Impressive**: This dish is perfect for special occasions like holidays, dinner parties, or a date night. Its combination of flavors and textures will surely impress anyone who tries it.
– **Balanced and Flavorful**: The creamy Brie, tart cranberries, and savory chicken create a flavor combination that is rich but not overpowering.
– **Easy to Make**: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal at home.

### Conclusion:
**Stuffed Chicken Breast with Cranberry and Brie** is the perfect way to elevate your chicken dinner to something truly special. With the rich, creamy Brie cheese and sweet-tart cranberry filling, this dish is bursting with flavor and texture. It’s the ideal choice for a cozy dinner at home or a festive celebration. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to delight everyone at the table. So, next time you want to impress, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious results!