Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? I know the feeling, which is why I created this Rolled Up Chicken With Feta & Spinach recipe—your new go-to for a quick, gourmet meal that’s sure to impress. Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with creamy feta, vibrant spinach, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all coming together in a delightful package! This dish not only elevates your weeknight menu but also allows you to customize the filling to your heart’s content, making it as versatile as your culinary imagination. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you can enjoy a homemade feast without spending hours in the kitchen. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and create something delicious?
Why Is This Chicken Recipe a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite fuses creamy feta with fresh spinach and sweet sun-dried tomatoes for a delectable flavor adventure.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is designed for weeknights, ready in under 40 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.
Customizable Fillings: Personalize your chicken rolls with various cheeses and greens to suit your taste, while ideas like Spicy Southern Chicken can inspire your next culinary creation.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these rolls sliced for a beautiful, restaurant-style dish that is sure to impress family and guests alike.
Healthy & Satisfying: Each serving is packed with protein and flavor, making it a balanced choice for dinner. Enjoy it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a vibrant quinoa salad for a complete meal!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls
• Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for juicy, tender bites.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked offers a wonderful aroma and slight heat.
• Garlic Powder – Gives a savory foundation; substitute with fresh minced garlic for more depth.
• Dried Oregano – Provides an authentic Mediterranean essence; fresh oregano packs an even bolder punch.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a delightful smoky flavor; regular paprika can work as an alternative.
For the Filling
• Feta Cheese – The creamy heart of this dish, perfect for a burst of flavor; goat cheese is a tasty substitution.
• Fresh Spinach – Brightness and color in every bite; kale or Swiss chard can be excellent alternatives.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Deliciously sweet and chewy, adding character; fresh tomatoes may be used instead.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic for an elevated taste profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but a pinch can add a pleasant kick.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for searing to achieve that beautiful golden crust; avocado oil or butter work too.
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). This ensures that your Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach will cook evenly after you pan-sear it. While the oven is heating, gather your ingredients to prepare for the assembly of the chicken rolls.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and butterfly it by slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Next, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch, which promotes uniform cooking and tenderness. Set aside on a clean surface.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy feta cheese, fresh spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until well-combined, creating a flavorful filling that will be tucked into each chicken breast. This delicious blend is what makes the Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach special.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. This seasoning will enhance the overall flavor of your Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach, ensuring each bite is delicious. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Place a portion of the filling at one end of each seasoned chicken breast. Starting from that end, roll the chicken tightly into a secure log shape. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls in place, preventing them from unwinding while they cook. This step is crucial for keeping the filling intact.
Step 6: Sear the Chicken
In an oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet, searing them for 3-4 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in moisture and flavor for your Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken rolls to your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. To ensure doneness, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will result in perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with the filling.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more succulent slices. Finally, slice the rolls and arrange them on a platter for serving. Your Rolled Chicken with Feta & Spinach is now ready to be enjoyed!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it uniquely yours—your taste buds will thank you!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist. The creaminess remains, but the flavors shift beautifully.
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Leafy Greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture and taste. Both options are packed with nutrients and add a lovely color.
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Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or thyme to the filling for a delightful herbal note. Just a touch can elevate the dish and transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.
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Spice It Up: Increase the heat by incorporating jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the filling. It adds a welcome warmth that sets the dish apart.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch and depth to the filling. The nutty flavor enhances the overall experience wonderfully.
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Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey or eggplant for a vegetarian option. Each alternative will add its own unique character while keeping it just as satisfying.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken entirely with portobello mushrooms as the main ingredient. Stuff the caps with the filling for a robust and flavorful vegetarian meal.
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Saucy Finish: Top the rolls with a simple tomato sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. This adds moisture and vibrancy, complementing the hearty flavors of the filling.
Exploring these variations will not only satisfy your culinary curiosity but can also inspire your next delicious creation. For more exciting options, consider trying the flavorful Garlic Chicken Roasted or indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo Tater. Your weeknight dinners are about to get even more exciting!
Storage Tips for Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolled chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to enjoy your Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach safely.
Make-Ahead: You can assemble the rolls a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Rolled Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes are perfect for busy weeknights! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to 24 hours in advance by preparing the filling and rolling the chicken, then sealing them tightly with toothpicks. Once assembled, refrigerate them covered to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply sear the rolls and bake them as instructed. This make-ahead option not only saves time but ensures that your chicken is just as delicious and flavorful as when made fresh. Enjoy a seamless cooking experience that allows you to serve a gourmet meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Rolled Chicken
Searing Matters: Lock in moisture by ensuring a good sear before baking; it helps create a golden crust on your Rolled Chicken.
Mind the Stuffing: Don’t overstuff your chicken rolls; they may break apart during cooking if too full. Keep it generous but manageable.
Uniform Thickness: Pound the chicken to an even 1/2 inch for consistent cooking; uneven thickness could lead to dry edges and a raw center.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This step ensures the juices redistribute for delectable, juicy slices.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the rolls a day before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake; this allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
What to Serve with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Imagine gathering around the dinner table, where delightful aromas waft through the air, inviting everyone to enjoy a harmonious meal together.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they complement the savory chicken perfectly while soaking up the flavors of the dish.
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Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: A colorful medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted to caramelized perfection enhances the Mediterranean flair.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and citrusy, a quinoa salad with fresh herbs and a lemon vinaigrette will add brightness to your meal. It also brings a delightful crunch.
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Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken rolls, balancing the plate beautifully.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy and subtly flavored, couscous pairs wonderfully with the chicken, adding a delightful texture and an inviting aroma to the meal.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber and mint provides a refreshing dip that works well with the warm, savory tastes of the stuffed chicken.
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White Wine Spritzer: A light, bubbly spritzer with a hint of citrus is an uplifting drink pairing that complements the Mediterranean flavors of the chicken.
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Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this flaky, honey-soaked dessert that adds a rich and festive finish to your Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Rolled Chicken With Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves that are fresh and crisp. Avoid any that show signs of wilting or yellowing, as these are past their prime. Fresh spinach should be bright, with no dark spots or blemishes.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Rolled Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the rolled chicken? If so, how?
Very! Freezing is a great option for preserving your Rolled Chicken. Wrap each chicken roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What should I do if the chicken rolls unravel while cooking?
Oh no! If you find that your rolls are coming undone, it’s likely due to overstuffing or not securing them tightly enough. Make sure you roll the chicken tightly and use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure them well. If they still unravel, try using less filling to keep them manageable.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you have allergies, consider substituting the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative or goat cheese for a different flavor. Also, pay attention to any potential gluten or nut allergies depending on the ingredients you choose for your side dishes. Always check labels for packaged ingredients!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rolled chicken up to a day in advance. After preparing the rolls, store them in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to cook, simply bake them according to the recipe instructions. This not only saves you time but also enhances the overall taste of the dish!
Rolled Chicken With Feta & Spinach: A Flavorful Weeknight Gem
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients for assembly.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing horizontally and pound to an even thickness of 1/2 inch.
- Combine feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a bowl for the filling.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
- Place a portion of filling at one end of each breast and roll tightly, securing with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and sear rolls seam-side down for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
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