Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! This Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is one of my all-time favorite recipes. It beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit for family dinners or even when you have guests over. The creamy brie and crisp apple create a delicious surprise inside each chicken breast, while the maple glaze adds an irresistible touch.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s simple enough that even novice cooks can impress their friends and family with it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful dish ready in no time!
• Delicious flavor combination: The mix of sweet apples and rich brie is truly delightful.
• Family-friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the stuffed chicken earlier in the day and bake it just before serving!
• Elegant presentation: It looks fancy enough to serve at dinner parties but is still comforting for everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather up some wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand! These items are not only delicious but also nutritious, making this dish both satisfying and good for you.

For the Chicken

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

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations to make this Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken your own.

• Swap the cheese: If brie isn’t your favorite, try using cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor.
• Change up the fruit: Pears or peaches would be fantastic alternatives to apples if you’re looking for something new.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans inside the stuffing for an added texture.
• Make it spicy: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give this dish an unexpected kick!

How to Make Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial because it ensures your chicken will cook evenly and retain its juiciness. While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray a broil-safe skillet with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Next, take each chicken breast and cut it horizontally so that they open like a book. Be careful not to cut all the way through! Seasoning the inside with salt and pepper not only enhances the flavor but also makes every bite truly tasty.

Step 3: Stuff with Apples and Brie

Now comes the fun part! Layer those thin slices of honeycrisp apple inside each butterflied chicken breast followed by generous slices of brie cheese. Folding them back together will lock in all those delicious flavors as they cook.

Step 4: Bake Until Almost Done

Place your stuffed chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet or skillet and pop them into the oven. Bake them for about 25 to 30 minutes until they’re almost cooked through. This initial baking helps set everything inside before adding that scrumptious glaze.

Step 5: Make Your Maple Glaze

While your chicken is baking away, let’s whip up that luscious glaze! In a small skillet over medium heat, combine all your glaze ingredients. Let it simmer until thickened; this process concentrates those amazing flavors and gives your dish that perfect finishing touch.

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

Once your chicken is nearly done baking, turn up the oven temperature to broil. Brush that homemade glaze generously on top of each piece of chicken. Broil them for about 10 to 12 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Keep an eye on them so nothing burns!

Step 7: Serve Warm

Finally, serve your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken warm with extra glaze drizzled over top. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven when all those flavors are at their peak!

I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s definitely one you’ll want to share around your dinner table.

Pro Tips for Making Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Getting the perfect combination of flavors and textures in your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is all about a few simple techniques.

• Choose the right apples: Honeycrisp apples are sweet and crisp, making them an excellent choice for this dish. Their texture holds up well during baking, ensuring you get that delightful crunch in every bite.
• Don’t skip the broiling step: Broiling adds a beautiful caramelized finish to the glaze. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives the chicken a lovely golden color that makes it visually appealing.
• Let the chicken rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring your chicken stays moist and tender.
• Experiment with cheeses: While brie is delicious, you can also try using other creamy cheeses like camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Each will bring its unique taste that complements the apple beautifully.
• Double the glaze: If you’re a glaze lover, consider making extra to drizzle over your side dishes or even to serve as a dipping sauce. It’s versatile and adds an extra layer of sweetness to your meal!

How to Serve Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken

Presentation is key when serving your stuffed chicken; it not only looks inviting but also sets the mood for a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme sprigs: Adding fresh thyme leaves on top of each serving not only enhances aesthetics but also brings out the herbaceous notes in the glaze.
• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the apples.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy. Their bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed chicken while adding refreshing elements.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide comfort alongside your flavorful chicken. They can soak up any extra glaze on your plate!
• Sautéed green beans: Quickly sautéed green beans with a little garlic add crunch and freshness to balance out the dish’s richness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken will not only taste amazing but will also impress anyone lucky enough to share your table! Enjoy creating this delightful meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is not only a delicious dish but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners even easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, reheat only the amount you plan to eat.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave on a microwave-safe plate until hot, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the stuffed chicken and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready, simply bake it as instructed for a quick meal.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light grain like quinoa or rice.

How do I know when my Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through without being dry.

Can I substitute other cheeses for the brie?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other creamy cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese if brie isn’t your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken! It’s such a comforting dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or preparing it ahead for busy nights, it’s bound to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!