Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Carefully slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, inside and out.
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced apple, diced brie cheese, chopped nuts (if using), honey or maple syrup (if using), and fresh thyme (if using).
- Gently mix the ingredients together until well combined.
- Spoon the apple brie filling into the pocket of each chicken breast, dividing it evenly. Don't overstuff.
- Secure the opening of the chicken breast with toothpicks, if needed, to keep the filling inside.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- To make the sauce: While the chicken is baking or resting, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider (or apple juice) and bring to a simmer.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove toothpicks (if used) before serving. Spoon the apple cider Dijon sauce over the chicken.
Notes
To prevent brie from melting out, dice it small and don't overstuff the chicken. Chill the brie in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before dicing if it's too soft. Chicken can be prepared ahead of time by stuffing and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before cooking. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or cheese, such as Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, or Camembert.
