Chef Mitchell preparing Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the concept of stuffed chicken while experimenting in my kitchen during the holidays. The addition of cranberries came from a desire to add a sweet twist to the traditional savory stuffing. Over the years, I've perfected this recipe to balance flavors perfectly. Now, it has become a staple for family dinners and festive occasions, bringing everyone together."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine and dinner recipes. My passion for cooking was ignited in culinary school, where I learned the fundamentals of flavors and techniques. I aim to create delightful dishes that are accessible and enjoyable for home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries served on a plate

Why This Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of ingredients that create a perfect harmony of flavors. The cranberries add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully. The creamy filling ensures that each bite is moist and rich, making it a comforting dish to serve on any occasion.

The technique used here is straightforward yet effective. By creating pockets in the chicken breasts and filling them with a well-balanced mixture, you ensure that the flavors meld during cooking. This method also allows for even cooking, resulting in tender chicken with a delectable stuffing.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use fresh ingredients and ensure your chicken breasts are evenly sized for uniform cooking. Don't skip the resting time after baking; it helps retain juices within the chicken. If you want extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts before stuffing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance. Once stuffed, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both options will provide creaminess without compromising the flavor, making it a great alternative in the stuffing.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.

Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for balance. Mashed potatoes or wild rice are also great options to soak up the delicious juices.

Leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

Yes, as mentioned earlier, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chicken a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge and bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.

The best way to reheat stuffed chicken is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. You can also use a microwave, but the oven retains better texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken turns out too dry, it may have been overcooked.

Solution: Ensure to monitor the internal temperature closely and consider brining the chicken beforehand to retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken skin isn't crispy, it may not have been baked at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Increase the oven temperature slightly towards the end of baking and remove the foil to allow the skin to crisp up.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it will be tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (75°C). Additionally, allow it to rest before slicing.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it can pose health risks.

Recovery: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until fully cooked. Always check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the chicken is cooked too long.

Prevention: To avoid this, keep the temperature at the recommended level and cover the chicken with foil if it browns too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, serve it with a side of unsalted rice or bread to absorb some of the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish is bland, increase the seasoning or serve with a flavorful sauce or gravy.

Fresh ingredients for Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries

Essential Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries

The key ingredients in this recipe include fresh chicken breasts, which provide a juicy base, and dried cranberries that add a sweet-tart flavor. Cream cheese brings creaminess to the filling, while herbs and spices enhance the overall taste. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and satisfying dish.

For the best results, use high-quality chicken and fresh cranberries if available. The freshness of the ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor of the dish. Opt for organic or locally sourced products to enhance taste and nutrition.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breasts: Choosing high-quality chicken breasts is essential. Look for organic or free-range options for the best flavor and texture. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  • Dried Cranberries: Select unsweetened or lightly sweetened dried cranberries to control the sweetness in the dish. They should be plump and not overly dried out, ensuring they contribute moisture to the stuffing.
  • Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor and creaminess in the stuffing. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider low-fat versions but avoid fat-free, as they often lack the desired texture.
Cooking process for Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for stuffed chicken involves preparing the filling, stuffing the chicken, and baking it to perfection. This straightforward method allows for flavorful ingredients to meld while ensuring the chicken remains juicy. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and texture.

To achieve the best results, take your time during the stuffing process to ensure each chicken breast is filled properly. Baking covered initially helps retain moisture, while uncovering towards the end allows for a beautiful golden crust.

Key Technique for Perfect Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries

The most important technique in this recipe is properly creating the pockets in the chicken breasts. Ensuring they are deep enough to hold the filling without breaking through the other side is crucial. This allows the delicious stuffing to meld with the chicken during cooking, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish.

Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Optional for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    For moisture
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
    For tanginess
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup cranberries
    Dried
  • 1 cup bread crumbs
    For stuffing
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
    Softened
  • 1/4 cup green onions
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup pecans
    Chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

    In a bowl, mix together dried cranberries, bread crumbs, cream cheese, green onions, pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and herbs until well combined.

  2. Prepare the Chicken

    Cut a pocket in each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through.

  3. Stuff the Chicken

    Fill each chicken breast pocket with the cranberry mixture, using toothpicks to secure if necessary.

  4. Season the Chicken

    Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  5. Prepare for Baking

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  6. Place in Baking Dish

    Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour chicken broth over them.

  7. Bake the Chicken

    Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

  8. Rest and Serve

    Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Stuffed Chicken with Cranberries alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. A light gravy or cranberry sauce can enhance the flavors even further.

Recipe Variations

You can experiment with different fillings by adding spinach, feta cheese, or even apples. For a spicy kick, consider including jalapeños or pepper jack cheese in the stuffing.