If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, the Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie & Apple Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This elegant yet surprisingly simple recipe brings together tender chicken breasts enveloping creamy brie and crisp apple slices, all kissed by a luscious maple mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy weeknight, this flavorful combination feels like a hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the mild, creamy brie to the tangy mustard and sweet maple syrup, every element complements the chicken beautifully.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These serve as your main canvas—juicy and tender when cooked right.
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced: Adds a creamy, decadent texture that melts delightfully inside the chicken.
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Provides sweet crunch and a fresh contrast to the cheese.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning both inside and out to enhance all other flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken and creating that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Brings a rich, natural sweetness that caramelizes perfectly during baking.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tang that balances the syrup’s sweetness.
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity to brighten the glaze and lift the dish.
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish: Aromatic and visually appealing, they add a lovely herbal note when served.
How to Make Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie & Apple Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for vibrant caramelization. Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast—this is where the magic happens as it holds the brie and apple slices. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper both inside and out to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Stuff with Brie and Apple
Next, stuff each pocket with smooth brie slices and crisp apple slices. The creamy cheese melts while the apple maintains a bit of crunch, creating a delightful textural contrast. If you find the pockets tough to keep closed naturally, toothpicks can help secure your delicious filling so nothing escapes during cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and gives the chicken a beautiful golden-brown exterior that adds to the dish’s irresistible appeal.
Step 4: Whisk the Maple Mustard Glaze
While the chicken browns, whisk together pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. This glaze will add layers of sweet, tangy flavor that perfectly complement the stuffed chicken.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Pour the glaze evenly over the seared chicken breasts, coating them with the irresistible mixture. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the chicken cooks through and the glaze thickens to a luscious, caramelized finish.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Finish by garnishing with fresh thyme sprigs for a vibrant pop of color and an herbaceous hint that perfectly rounds out the meal.
How to Serve Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie & Apple Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh thyme sprigs not only elevate the visual appeal but also add a subtle, fragrant note that enhances the overall flavor profile. For extra flair, consider a light drizzle of the remaining glaze or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to emphasize the dish’s depth.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad all complement the sweet and tangy notes. For a hearty meal, quinoa or wild rice can soak up the extra glaze beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, slice the chicken breasts to show off their colorful filling, fanning the slices on a plate. You can also serve on a bed of sautéed greens or drizzled with a little extra maple mustard glaze for a restaurant-worthy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the glaze and chicken moist is key, so consider spooning some extra glaze over the top before sealing to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by wrapping each stuffed chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best quality.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the chicken breasts in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through. This helps maintain the moisture and prevents the brie from becoming rubbery. Avoid microwaving as it can cause uneven heating and soggy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie provides a creamy softness that pairs well with apples, you can experiment with camembert or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just choose cheeses that melt well.
What type of apple works best?
Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are preferred because they hold their shape and offer a nice balance of sweet and tart. Avoid overly soft or sweet apples that might become mushy when cooked.
Can I prepare this recipe without stuffing the chicken?
Definitely, you can bake the chicken and top it with brie and apple slices under the glaze for a simplified version. The flavor will still shine, although the stuffed element adds a lovely texture surprise.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you confirm your mustard and other condiments do not contain gluten additives.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe and juicy. Use a meat thermometer for best results, especially when working with stuffed chicken.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the sweet and savory dance in this Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie & Apple Recipe. It manages to feel special yet doable, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that delights the senses. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to dinner that’s as impressive as it is delicious.
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Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast Stuffed with Brie & Apple Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Succulent chicken breasts stuffed with creamy brie and crisp apple slices, glazed in a sweet and tangy maple mustard sauce. This elegant yet simple dish combines savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken & Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Glaze & Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken Pockets: Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, then season both the inside and outside with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Stuff Chicken: Fill each pocket with slices of brie cheese and apple. Use toothpicks if needed to secure the filling inside.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Glaze & Bake: Pour the glaze evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Rest & Garnish: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving warm.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain texture during baking.
- Make sure to secure the stuffing with toothpicks to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
- Use an oven-safe skillet that can go from stovetop to oven for easy preparation and cleanup.
- Allow the chicken to rest to retain juiciness and let the glaze set beautifully.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute brie with a plant-based cheese alternative.
