Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 (6 oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Heaping ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅓ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (equivalent to about 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme)
- Handful of baby spinach or arugula (optional)
- ½ green apple, thinly sliced (about 12 slices)
- ½ wheel of brie cheese, cut into slices (about 12 slices)
Mustard Sauce and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 heaping tablespoon coarse ground mustard
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally to open up like a book, staying attached on one side. This creates a pocket for the stuffing. If unfamiliar, refer to step-by-step butterfly chicken guides.
- Season and Layer: Sprinkle the insides of the chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Lay a few pieces of spinach or arugula on one side to form an even layer, then top with about 3 slices of green apple and 3 slices of brie cheese per breast.
- Close the Chicken: Fold each chicken breast over to encase the filling snugly. Securing with toothpicks is optional but can help keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Apply Mustard Mixture: In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard and coarse ground mustard. Brush half of this mixture on the tops of the stuffed chicken breasts.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet mustard side down. Brush the other side with the remaining mustard mixture. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes, until well browned, being careful not to let the filling spill out.
- Cook Through: After searing both sides, cover the skillet, reduce heat to just under medium, and cook for 5-8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Transfer the stuffed chicken breasts to plates, spooning any pan sauce over the top. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Butterflying chicken breasts ensures even cooking and provides space for the filling.
- Use fresh thyme if available for a brighter herbal flavor.
- If you prefer, secure the stuffed breasts with toothpicks to prevent filling from spilling during cooking.
- Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the chicken breasts to avoid dryness.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American