Cranberry & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–7 oz / 170–200 g each)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

For the Goat Cheese Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) goat cheese, softened

• ¼ cup (30 g) dried cranberries, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cranberry Rosemary Sauce

• 1 cup (120 g) fresh or frozen cranberries

• ⅓ cup (80 ml) cranberry juice

• ¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth

• 3 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary

• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for a thicker sauce)

For Garnish

• Fresh rosemary sprigs

• Chopped parsley

• Fresh cranberries (optional)

• Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine:

   • Goat cheese

   • Chopped dried cranberries

   • Parsley

   • Thyme

   • Lemon zest

   • Garlic

   • Black pepper

2. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast without slicing all the way through.

3. Divide the goat cheese mixture evenly and stuff each chicken breast.

4. Secure the opening with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 3 – Season and Sear

1. Mix together:

   • Salt

   • Black pepper

   • Garlic powder

   • Onion powder

   • Smoked paprika

   • Dried thyme

2. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 4 – Roast

1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

2. Roast for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes.

Step 5 – Make the Cranberry Rosemary Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine:

   • Cranberries

   • Cranberry juice

   • Chicken broth

   • Honey

   • Balsamic vinegar

   • Dijon mustard

   • Rosemary sprig

2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes.

5. Remove the rosemary sprig before serving.

Step 6 – Assemble

1. Slice each stuffed chicken breast in half to reveal the creamy filling.

2. Spoon the cranberry rosemary sauce generously over the chicken.

3. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, parsley, and cracked black pepper.

Chef's Tips

• Pound the chicken to an even thickness before cutting the pocket for more even cooking.

• Softened goat cheese is easier to mix and stuff into the chicken.

• Avoid overfilling to prevent the cheese from leaking during cooking.

• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

• For extra richness, add a tablespoon of cold butter to the cranberry sauce just before serving.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~460 kcal

• Protein: 42 g

• Fat: 21 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 16 g

• Sodium: 520 mg

Serving Suggestion

This Cranberry & Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast is an elegant entrée that pairs juicy, herb-seasoned chicken with a creamy goat cheese filling studded with sweet dried cranberries. Finished with a glossy cranberry rosemary sauce, it delivers the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice pilaf, roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or glazed carrots. Pair with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, sparkling cider, or a festive cranberry spritzer for a restaurant-quality meal ideal for holidays or special occasions.