Name: Bacon Cranberry Brie Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); Salt (to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled); 1 small shallot or ½ small onion (thinly sliced); 1 cup fresh or jarred cranberries (or rehydrated dried cranberries); 1 to 1½ cups brie cheese (sliced or cubed); Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

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This Bacon Cranberry Brie Chicken brings together the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors for a truly elegant dinner experience. Tender chicken breasts are topped with melted brie cheese, crispy bacon bits, and tart cranberries, making each bite a delightful medley of textures and tastes.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe offers simplicity with upscale flair. The combination of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors makes it a wonderful choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines rich brie, crispy bacon, and tart cranberries for a harmonious flavor blend.
Simple cooking steps create an impressive, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Versatile dish perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Four tender, lean chicken breasts that serve as the hearty, protein-rich base of the dish.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and a mild garlicky aroma without overpowering.
Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, providing a golden brown crust and preventing sticking.
Bacon slices: Eight slices cooked until crisp then crumbled; adds smoky crunchiness to the dish.
Shallot or small onion: Finely sliced and sautéed for sweetness and mild sharpness that complements cranberries.
Fresh or jarred cranberries: One cup of tart, juicy cranberries that balance the richness of cheese and bacon.
Brie cheese: One to one and a half cups sliced or cubed; creamy and melts beautifully over the chicken.
Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish): Adds a pop of color and subtle herbal notes to finish the dish.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Start by patting dry the chicken breasts, then evenly season both sides with salt, freshly ground pepper, and garlic powder. This ensures the meat is flavorful throughout the cooking process and enhances the seasoning absorption.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook for approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful base before baking.
Sauté Shallots and Cranberries: Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and sauté the shallot or onion until softened and translucent. Next, add the cranberries and cook briefly until they begin to soften, releasing their tangy juices which mingle with the sweet shallots.
Assemble the Chicken: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon the warm cranberry and shallot mixture evenly over each piece. Top with sliced or cubed brie cheese, allowing generous coverage, then sprinkle crumbled bacon on top to add crispy texture and smoky flavor.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the brie has melted into a bubbly, luscious topping. This final step brings all flavors together and ensures the cheese is perfectly gooey.
Serve Warm: Once baked, garnish the chicken with fresh thyme or parsley for a bright, fresh aroma and an appealing presentation. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

You Must Know

Fresh cranberries provide a tart contrast, while dried cranberries add a sweeter, chewier texture; choose based on your flavor preference.
Brie cheese melts beautifully but can be substituted with camembert for a similar creamy effect.
For an extra touch of sweetness and depth, consider drizzling the finished dish with balsamic glaze or honey before serving.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out and to keep the brie creamy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted seasonal vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the rich flavors. A light white wine or sparkling beverage also complements the meal beautifully.

Professional Tips

For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
Cook bacon ahead of time and drain well to maintain crispiness and avoid sogginess under the cheese.
Use a cast-iron skillet for searing to achieve an excellent crust on the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used; they offer juicier, more flavorful meat but adjust cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute if I don’t have brie cheese?: Camembert is a great alternative as it melts similarly, or you can use mild mozzarella though it will lack the creamy depth brie provides.
How do I rehydrate dried cranberries for this recipe?: Soak dried cranberries in warm water or juice for 10-15 minutes before using to plump them up and enhance moisture content.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?: You can sear chicken and prepare cranberry mixture in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving to maintain freshness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?: Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
What sides complement this chicken recipe?: Roasted root vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light arugula salad with vinaigrette are excellent choices that balance richness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?: To make a dairy-free version, substitute brie with a vegan melting cheese alternative and ensure bacon is free from added dairy ingredients.