After a long day, nothing is more satisfying than plating up a meal that looks as good as it tastes. That’s how I felt when I first prepared Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. As soon as the oven door opened, a wave of Mediterranean aromas filled my kitchen—a delightful reminder of sunlit shores and vibrant flavors.
Imagine tender chicken breasts enveloping a creamy feta filling, spiked with the earthy notes of fresh spinach and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, effortlessly combining nutrition and indulgence without a sprinkle of fuss. Perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or simply elevating your weeknight dinners, this dish is a culinary delight that anyone can master.
Ready to discover how easy it is to create this gourmet experience in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why You’ll Adore Rolled Up Chicken with Feta
Flavor Explosion: This dish boasts a medley of Mediterranean flavors, blending creamy feta, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can achieve gourmet results without a hassle.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to mix and match fillings to suit your taste—switch feta for goat cheese or add different veggies for a unique twist!
Impressive Presentation: Serve it up, and watch your friends and family marvel at your culinary prowess, all with minimal effort.
Rolled Up Chicken with Feta Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, tender and easy to roll up.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a gentle spice; use more for an extra kick.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Infuses a savory aromatic note; you can substitute with fresh garlic for a bolder taste.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Perfect for that Mediterranean essence; Italian seasoning works as a handy alternative.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Introduces depth and sweetness; regular paprika can be substituted if needed.
For the Filling
• Crumbled Feta Cheese (1 cup) – Provides a creamy, tangy flavor; try goat cheese for a delightful change.
• Fresh Spinach, Chopped (1 cup) – Bursting with nutrients; kale can work if you’re looking for a swap.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Chopped (½ cup) – A sweet and tangy addition; roasted red peppers are a brilliant alternative.
• Minced Garlic (2 cloves) – Packs a flavor punch; switch to garlic powder if you’re short on fresh garlic.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a hint of heat for spice lovers; omit if you prefer milder flavors.
For Searing
• Olive Oil (3 tbsp total) – Used for cooking and moisture; feel free to try other oils if desired.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re already on your way to making the delicious Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for that delightful aroma that’ll soon fill your kitchen.
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Prepare Chicken: Carefully butterfly each chicken breast using a sharp knife, creating a flat surface that helps to evenly distribute the filling.
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Season and Flatten: Generously season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Then, gently pound each piece to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
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Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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Stuff and Roll: Spoon the delightful filling onto each chicken breast, then roll them up tightly. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything inside.
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Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rolled chicken on both sides until they’re golden brown, about 4-5 minutes—this step locks in the juices!
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until thoroughly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Rest and Serve: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving up the masterpiece!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Rolled Up Chicken
• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overfilling the chicken rolls; this helps prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking throughout the Rolled Up Chicken.
• Sear for Flavor: Searing before baking locks in juices and creates a delightful golden crust—don’t skip this step!
• Resting Is Key: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes post-baking. This extra step retains moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfect doneness, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to 24 hours in advance, making your weeknight dinner routine a breeze. Simply prepare the filling, stuff the chicken breasts, and roll them up, then store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This not only saves you time but also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to cook, sear the rolls as directed, then bake them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy fresh, flavorful results with minimal effort!
Rolled Up Chicken with Feta Variations
Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and elevate your dining experience!
- Cheese Swap: Replace feta with goat cheese or mozzarella for a creamier texture and different flavor.
- Leafy Greens: Use arugula or kale instead of spinach for a peppery twist or to add more color.
- Herbs Galore: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the filling for a fragrant burst of flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for extra veggies and texture.
- Nuts for Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pine nuts with the filling for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Heat It Up: Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for those who love a kick.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the filling for a bright, refreshing finish that enhances the flavors.
- Mediterranean Twist: Introduce black olives or capers into the filling, deepening the Mediterranean essence and offering a briny contrast.
With these variations, feel free to experiment and make this dish your own—each combination brings a new adventure to your table!
What to Serve with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this flavorful dish with delightful sides and beverages that complement its vibrant Mediterranean flair.
- Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes adds comfort and richness, perfectly offsetting the savory chicken rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil brings a burst of color and texture, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
- Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and feta create a refreshing balance, providing a burst of brightness beside the hearty chicken.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: The nuttiness of quinoa combined with fresh herbs and lemony undertones brings a wholesome, nutritious contrast.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears sprinkled with lemon juice and parmesan elevate the dish with a touch of elegance and fresh flavor.
- Chickpea Hummus with Pita: This creamy dip offers a delightful, protein-packed appetizer that pairs seamlessly with the chicken’s savory notes.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay, with its crisp notes, complements the dish and enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with a light, coffee-infused dessert that adds a touch of indulgence to the evening.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water garnished with lime provides a zesty and palate-cleansing experience.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer tangy yogurt with honey and fresh berries for a healthy, satisfying dessert that’s easy to prepare.
How to Store and Freeze Rolled Up Chicken
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and delicious.
Freezer: Wrap each individual portion tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months to maintain quality.
Reheating: To enjoy your Rolled Up Chicken, warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and remains succulent.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the chicken rolls a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making dinner a breeze!
Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and have a firm texture. Avoid those with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken should have a mild odor, and the flesh should be pink and avoid browning.
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How can I store the leftovers properly?
I recommend placing any leftovers in an airtight container and keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, the flavors stay vibrant, and you can easily enjoy them again! You can also reheat them in the oven for a tender result.
Can I freeze the rolled chicken for later?
Yes, you can! Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What should I do if the chicken doesn’t roll easily?
Very! If you find that the chicken isn’t rolling without tearing, it might be due to uneven thickness. Simply pound the chicken breasts a bit more to create an even layer, making the rolling process much easier and preventing any filling from spilling out.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! The Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is naturally gluten-free as it uses no flour or breadcrumbs. Just be sure to check that your feta and any other ingredients you choose to use don’t contain hidden gluten sources.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling. This makes it even easier to whip up dinner on a busy night while preserving the flavors for your Rolled Up Chicken!
Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Delight
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully butterfly each chicken breast using a knife.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika. Flatten each piece.
- Combine crumbled feta, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Stuff the filling into each chicken breast and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.