As I was savoring the flavors of my latest culinary adventure, I realized that dinner doesn’t have to be a mundane chore. Enter my Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach, where simple chicken breasts transform into a symphony of tastes bursting with creamy feta, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to explore different fillings like kale or goat cheese to suit your palate! Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises not only satisfaction but also smiles around the table!
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes elevates plain chicken into a rich, savory experience that will delight your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in under an hour, giving you more time to relax and enjoy dinner with family or friends.
Customization Ready: Swap fillings to match your taste — think goat cheese or even roasted veggies for a different spin.
Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for making ahead of time, you can assemble these rolls a day in advance or freeze them, simplifying your dinner prep.
Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: With its golden-brown exterior, this recipe impresses guests with gourmet flair, making every meal feel special.
For more delicious ideas, check out my Grilled Chicken Avocado or Cheesy Chicken Cordon recipes!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components that make this dish shine.
For the Chicken Rolls
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean base that makes these rolled delights juicy and protein-packed.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to personal taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and depth; freshly cracked for the best aroma.
- Garlic Powder – Gives a savory punch; fresh minced garlic can intensify the flavors.
- Dried Oregano – Complements the chicken beautifully; fresh oregano heightens the taste experience.
- Smoked Paprika – Introduces a lovely smokiness; substitute regular paprika if needed.
For the Filling
- Feta Cheese – Provides a rich, tangy flavor that’s creamy and delightful; goat cheese is a fantastic alternative if desired.
- Fresh Spinach – A vibrant addition that packs in nutrition; can be replaced by kale or Swiss chard for a twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a sweet and tangy note; fresh tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
- Garlic – Freshly minced for a boost in flavor; don’t skip this step for extra tastiness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a little heat in their meal.
- Olive Oil – Necessary for searing the rolls and adding richness; avocado oil or butter works well too.
This Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach recipe will impress both your family and dinner guests, turning any mealtime into an occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach. This step is crucial for achieving that golden brown finish while allowing the chicken to cook evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Butterfly and pound each boneless, skinless chicken breast to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and tender results. Don’t rush this process! A consistent thickness is key to preventing some parts from being overcooked while others are underdone.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a colorful and flavorful filling for your Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach. Set this bowl aside while you season the chicken.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Take your time to ensure each piece is well-coated, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors before rolling it up with your tasty filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Place a generous portion of the filling at one end of each seasoned chicken breast. Carefully roll the chicken tightly around the filling and secure the rolled chicken with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This will keep everything intact as you cook the Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
Step 6: Sear the Rolls
In an oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the rolled chicken seam-side down, searing for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are beautifully golden brown. This step locks in all those savory juices and flavors, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for approximately 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring that the chicken is perfectly cooked through while the flavorful filling remains warm and creamy.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This resting period keeps the Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach juicy. After resting, slice the rolls into portions and serve with your favorite sides, enjoying the delicious combination of flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Rolled Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. For longer storage, these rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. To finish cooking, sear and bake the rolls as instructed, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, all while saving you valuable time on busy nights!
What to Serve with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Enhance your dinner table experience with delightful accompaniments that complement every juicy bite of the chicken rolls.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these fluffy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, providing a rich backdrop to the savory chicken.
Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies adds a hint of sweetness and a crunch that beautifully balances the dish’s creamy filling.
Quinoa Salad: A light and vibrant quinoa salad with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast, keeping the meal both healthy and flavorful.
Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette serve as a perfect palate cleanser, brightening each bite of the hearty chicken rolls.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil make for an elegant side, adding a sophisticated touch and enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.
Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, chilled white wine pairs brilliantly, its acidity cutting through the richness of the cheese while enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach
Fridge: Store leftover Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist while warming.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls a day in advance and keep them stored in the fridge. This option makes weeknight cooking a breeze!
Expert Tips for Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach
Uniform Thickness: Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even 1/2 inch thickness. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures juicy, perfectly cooked rolls.
Stuffing Amount: Avoid overstuffing the chicken with the filling. Too much filling can make it hard to roll and may lead to leaks during cooking.
Searing is Key: Always sear the rolls before baking. This step locks in flavor and moisture, giving the Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach a delectable crust.
Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes post-baking. Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping your dish succulent and tender.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings. Incorporate various herbs or vegetables to create a unique version of your Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create your own unique version of this delightful dish!
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with eggplant slices and use a tofu-based filling for a scrumptious plant-based twist. Consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Kale Substitute: Swap out spinach for kale for an earthier taste. Kale brings a hearty chewiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta.
Zesty Herb Blend: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or basil into the filling for an aromatic boost. These herbs can elevate the flavor profile into something truly extraordinary.
Add Crunch: Mix in some pine nuts or chopped walnuts with the filling for added texture. The nuttiness complements the creamy feta and enhances the overall experience!
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. If you enjoy a spicy taste, this twist will make your rolls unforgettable.
Filling Twist: Consider using roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts in place of sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor dimension. Each option brings a new character to your plate!
Cheese Variations: Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy, creamy alternative that changes the dish’s dynamic entirely. It offers a lighter, softer texture that many adore.
Mediterranean Explosion: Add olives or capers to the filling for a briny punch! These ingredients amplify the Mediterranean essence of the dish, making it even more delightful.
For more inspiration, check out my Cheesy Chicken Meatball or BBQ Pulled Chicken recipes that can spark your culinary creativity!
Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing spinach, look for vibrant, dark green leaves without any wilting or yellowing. For feta cheese, opt for creamy blocks rather than crumbled varieties for better texture. Sun-dried tomatoes should be brightly colored and not overly dry; soaking them in warm water for a few minutes can enhance their flavor and texture.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftover Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes in an airtight container. They can last up to 4 days; however, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days. Just make sure to allow it to cool to room temperature before storing to maintain its deliciousness.
Can I freeze these chicken rolls?
Very! To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. For reheating, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it’s likely due to varying thickness in your chicken breasts. To prevent this, always pound the chicken to an even 1/2 inch thickness. If you run into the issue, you can slice thicker parts of the chicken to even them out during cooking. Additionally, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer can be a helpful tool to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) uniformly.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with lactose intolerance, try substituting the feta cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it completely. For those with gluten sensitivities, rest assured that this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any seasonings used for added ingredients that could contain gluten.
How can I customize this recipe for different tastes?
Feel free to get creative! You can replace the filling entirely by using goat cheese, kale, or even chopped bell peppers for different flavor profiles. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish further. Don’t hesitate—experimenting with fillings is a joy that makes this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes even more fun!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach for a Flavorful Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly and pound each chicken breast to 1/2 inch thickness.
- In a medium bowl, combine feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Place filling at one end of each chicken breast. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for about 25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
