Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, easy, and impressive? Then look no further! This Chicken and Brie recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated dinner party. It's a delightful blend of savory chicken, creamy brie, and sweet honey, all coming together in a surprisingly simple dish. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. This simple seasoning elevates the natural flavor of the chicken.
Step 2: Create the Honey-Mustard Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and Dijon mustard. This creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the creamy brie.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a delicious sear to the chicken, enhancing its overall flavor. Place a slice of brie on top of each chicken breast.
Pour the honey-mustard glaze evenly over the chicken and brie. If using, sprinkle the pecans or walnuts over the top for added texture.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the brie is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy and delicious meal! It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for a complete and healthy dinner.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey-mustard glaze for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, sage, or oregano would all be delicious additions.
- Add a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the brie for an extra layer of flavor.
- Substitute goat cheese or cream cheese for the brie if desired. Each cheese will offer a unique flavor profile.
- This recipe is easily adaptable for larger gatherings; simply increase the ingredients proportionally.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without nuts):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Chicken and Brie recipe is a testament to how easy it can be to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It's a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and impressive. Enjoy!