As the crisp autumn air settles in, I can’t help but crave dishes that warm both the kitchen and the soul. Enter my Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken, a delightful balance of sweet and savory that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. This recipe transforms simple, juicy chicken breasts into a gourmet experience, showcasing luscious apple slices and creamy brie, all enveloped in a rich maple glaze. Not only is this dish wonderfully satisfying, but it’s also gluten-free and low-calorie, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or whipping up something special for a weeknight meal, this stuffed chicken is guaranteed to impress. What unique twist will you add to your version?
Why is this chicken dish irresistible?
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this gourmet meal ready in no time.
Fall flavors: The combination of crisp apples and rich maple glaze invokes the essence of fall, making every bite comforting and nostalgic.
Versatile pairing: Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this stuffed chicken dish is sure to dazzle your guests and keep them coming back for more!
Diet-friendly: Not only is it gluten-free and low-calorie, but it perfectly balances indulgence with health, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
Don’t forget to check out other delicious options like our Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Chicken Fajitas to enjoy more home-cooked goodness!
Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein base perfect for stuffing; consider thighs for extra moisture.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; the amount can be increased for larger breasts.
- Black Pepper – Adds foundational seasoning; freshly ground enhances the flavor profile.
For the Stuffing
- Honeycrisp Apple – Offers a tart sweetness and delightful texture; can substitute with Granny Smith for more tartness.
- Brie Cheese – Provides a creamy, rich component; if unavailable, a mild cheese can work well.
For the Glaze
- Apple Cider or Juice – Contributes sweetness and acidity; white wine is a flavorful alternative.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness to the glaze; honey can be used but will alter the flavor slightly.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses depth of flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best intensity.
- Dijon Mustard – Balances the sweetness; yellow mustard can be used in a pinch.
- Fresh Thyme – Adds an earthy note; dried thyme can substitute, but use less due to its potency.
- Additional Kosher Salt – For fine-tuning the flavor of the glaze.
This Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is not only an inviting centerpiece for any meal but also a dish everyone at your table will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. Prepare a baking sheet or a broiler-safe skillet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken
Carefully butterfly each boneless chicken breast by slicing horizontally, ensuring you cut only halfway through. This creates a pocket for stuffing. Once opened, season the chicken generously inside and out with kosher salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple and Brie Stuffing
Layer thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples and creamy brie cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast. The apples provide a sweet crunch, while the brie adds a rich, gooey texture. Be mindful not to overstuff to prevent spillage during cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Close up the stuffed chicken breasts and place them in the prepared dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through, and the juices run clear. This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully as the chicken cooks.
Step 5: Make the Maple Glaze
While the chicken bakes, combine apple cider, pure maple syrup, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme in a small skillet over medium heat. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and thickens into a glossy glaze.
Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish
After baking, switch your oven to broil. Generously brush the warm maple glaze over the stuffed chicken, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Broil for 10-12 minutes, monitoring closely until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is richly browned and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm with any remaining glaze drizzled on top. This Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
The Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken is fantastic for meal prep, helping you save precious time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the stuffed chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and stuff the chicken breasts, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, avoid adding the glaze until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to cook, preheat your oven and bake the chicken without the glaze for approximately 25-30 minutes. Finally, brush on the warm maple glaze and broil until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This method preserves the taste and texture for future enjoyment.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, to maintain juiciness.
Serving Suggestions: Reheat alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, to create a comforting meal that feels freshly prepared.
Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with delightful twists on this irresistible dish!
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Pork Chops: Substitute chicken breasts with pork chops for a hearty variation that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
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Pears Instead of Apples: Try swapping honeycrisp apples with pears for a different flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it creamy while catering to dairy-free diets.
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Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs; rosemary or sage can provide a unique earthy flavor alongside the sweetness.
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Maple Balsamic Glaze: Mix in balsamic vinegar with the maple syrup for a tangy, more sophisticated glaze that elevates the dish.
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Stuffed With Spinach: Add sautéed spinach and nuts to the filling for an added boost of nutrition and texture.
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Stuffed Chicken Roulade: Try this technique to create a stunning plated presentation, similar to my Stuffed Chicken Roulade.
For more tasty ideas, don’t miss out on our Chipotle Pineapple Chicken or BBQ Chicken Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls to bring variety to your table!
What to Serve with Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken
Savoring the succulent flavors of this stuffed chicken dish is just the beginning—complement it with delightful sides that create a memorable meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture and subtle richness balance the savory and sweet notes of the chicken, creating a comforting duo.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience with their vibrant color.
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Garlic Green Beans: These tender, garlicky beans provide a fresh and crisp contrast, brightening up the plate and complementing your main event beautifully.
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Apple Cider Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tart apples, and a light vinaigrette echoes the flavors of the dish, bringing a lively, fall-themed twist to the meal.
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Buttery Cornbread: With its soft crumb and slight sweetness, cornbread pairs wonderfully, soaking up any delicious maple glaze that may find its way to the plate.
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Sparkling Cider: An effervescent drink adds a festive touch and a hint of sweetness, refreshing your palate between bites of the rich chicken.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with warm maple syrup provides a delightful end to your meal, capturing the flavors of the dish in a decadent way.
Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken
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Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling to achieve that perfect golden glaze without burning the chicken.
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Cold Brie Slicing: Slice brie while it’s cold for easier handling and to create neat, thin pieces that fit well inside the chicken.
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Avoid Overstuffing: Make sure not to overstuff with brie; just a few slices will provide delicious creaminess without the risk of spillage during cooking.
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Season Generously: Proper seasoning of the chicken breasts is crucial for optimal flavor, so don’t skimp on the kosher salt and pepper.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain its juices, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose Honeycrisp apples, which provide a lovely tart sweetness and crisp texture. If you prefer a touch more tartness, Granny Smith apples make a great substitute. Look for firm apples without dark spots or bruising to ensure they hold their shape while cooking.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be easily stored! Simply place the Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This ensures that the chicken remains moist and the flavors stay vibrant for your next meal.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken, and if so, how?
Certainly! You can freeze this dish for future enjoyment. Start by wrapping each portion tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag and label it. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the chicken is dried out after cooking?
No need to worry! If your chicken turns out a bit dry, next time, check the cooking temperature with a meat thermometer. Aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s perfectly cooked. Additionally, consider soaking the chicken in a brine solution (1/4 cup kosher salt to 4 cups of water) for about 30 minutes before cooking for added moisture.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for Dijon mustard?
Very much! For gluten-sensitive individuals, look for gluten-free Dijon mustard brands available in grocery stores. If you’re unsure, feel free to use yellow mustard, which is usually gluten-free as well, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Can I use a different cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While brie adds a lovely creaminess, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A mild goat cheese, cream cheese, or even havarti can bring a delicious twist to your Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the cheese’s richness!
Maple Glazed Apple and Brie Stuffed Chicken Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet or a broiler-safe skillet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Butterfly each boneless chicken breast by slicing horizontally, ensuring you cut only halfway through. Season the chicken generously inside and out with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Layer thinly sliced Honeycrisp apples and creamy brie cheese inside each butterflied chicken breast.
- Close up the stuffed chicken breasts and place them in the prepared dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
- Combine apple cider, pure maple syrup, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme in a small skillet over medium heat. Allow to simmer gently for about 12-15 minutes until it reduces by half.
- After baking, switch your oven to broil. Brush the warm maple glaze over the stuffed chicken and broil for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with remaining glaze drizzled on top.