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This apple and brie stuffed chicken combines juicy seared chicken breasts with tart green apple slices and creamy melted brie cheese for a warming meal perfect for early fall evenings. The blend of Dijon and coarse ground mustard brushed on the chicken adds a bright tang that lifts the rich flavors. Ready in about thirty minutes, this onepan recipe is a go to when I want something cozy yet elegant, especially when apples are at peak season.
I first tried this on a cool October night when local apples were fresh at the market. My husband said it tasted like a fancy bistro dinner at home, and my kids loved the creamy melted brie layered with crisp apple.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose pieces of even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy
- Kosher salt: seasons the chicken deeply without harshness look for flaky texture
- Black pepper: freshly cracked is best for a little heat
- Dried thyme or fresh thyme: adds woodsy flavor you can use rosemary as well for another herbal touch
- Baby spinach or arugula: these greens add freshness and a little color opt for crisp bright leaves
- Green apple: pick a tart variety such as Granny Smith for best contrast thin slices keep the filling tender
- Brie cheese: creamy and melts beautifully rind left on for flavor choose a ripe wheel that is soft to the touch
- Dijon mustard and coarse ground mustard: these add tang and complexity use whole grain if you want extra texture
- Extra virgin olive oil: for a beautiful sear and to build the pan sauce choose one with fruity notes
Instructions
- Butterfly the Chicken Breasts:
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally so that it opens like a book but do not cut through to the other side Use the palm of your hand to hold the chicken flat and work slowly for an even cut This gives a large surface for the stuffing
- Season and Layer the Fillings:
- Sprinkle salt black pepper and thyme across the inside faces of the chicken Lay a few spinach or arugula leaves on one side Top with thin green apple slices followed by slices of brie cheese Spread these evenly for balanced flavor in each bite
- Fold and Brush with Mustard:
- Close each chicken breast over the fillings gently Press the edges together For extra hold you can use toothpicks In a small bowl mix both mustards and brush half this mixture over the tops for a sticky flavorful crust
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Once shimmering lay the chicken breasts mustard side down Sear for three to four minutes each side until golden brown flip carefully so the apple and brie stay inside While cooking brush the rest of the mustard on the top side
- Finish Cooking:
- Once both sides are browned cover the skillet and lower the heat to just under medium Let cook for five to eight minutes depending on thickness Check that the center reaches safe doneness and the cheese is melted
- Serve and Plate:
- Move the chicken to plates Spoon some pan sauce and any melted cheese over the top Serve hot for full gooey effect
My favorite part is watching brie bubble into every bite of chicken while the apples soften My little one always tries to sneak extra apple slices while I am prepping
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days Be sure to reheat gently so the cheese does not separate Slice the chicken for salads the next day or tuck it in a sandwich
Ingredient Substitutions
No brie on hand Try camembert or fontina for a similar melt Swap apple for pear for more sweetness If you have baby kale instead of spinach use it for a slightly peppery bite
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with roasted potatoes a leafy green salad or over wild rice I often add roasted carrots especially in fall For a festive dinner add a crisp glass of white wine
This apple and brie stuffed chicken is an elegant quick weeknight main that highlights seasonal apples and creamy melted cheese for a cozy but impressive meal.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → How do you butterfly a chicken breast?
Slice the chicken breast horizontally without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket perfect for stuffing.
- → What type of apple works best?
Green apples such as Granny Smith provide a tart contrast that complements the creamy brie.
- → Can I substitute the greens used inside?
Yes, baby spinach or arugula add freshness, but they can be omitted if preferred.
- → How do I keep the stuffing inside while cooking?
Fold the chicken breast carefully and sear with the folded side down first; toothpicks can help secure the filling.
- → Is it necessary to use two types of mustard?
The combination of Dijon and coarse ground mustard adds depth, though either one can be used alone based on preference.