Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or any special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a delicious filling of creamy feta cheese, savory spinach, and sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all rolled up and baked to perfection. The result is a dish that is bursting with flavor and texture, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser.

The rich, creamy feta blends beautifully with the earthy spinach and the intense, slightly sweet taste of the sun-dried tomatoes. When rolled inside the chicken, the filling creates a delightful contrast against the juicy, tender chicken. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal, as the combination of ingredients is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful and Balanced

The savory feta, earthy spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes create a well-balanced, rich flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.

2. Easy to Prepare

Despite its sophisticated taste, this dish is simple to make and requires just a few basic ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

3. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with lean chicken, spinach, and healthy fats from the feta and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is both filling and nutrient-dense.

4. Impressive Presentation

The rolled-up chicken looks elegant on a plate, making it a great choice for dinner parties, family gatherings, or special celebrations.

5. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is easily adaptable—feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as garlic, olives, or fresh herbs, to personalize the flavor to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Rolls:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Fresh spinach (chopped)
• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper

For the Seasoning:

• Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
• Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Variations

• Add Garlic and Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried garlic, oregano, basil, or thyme into the filling to enhance the flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese, mozzarella, or parmesan in place of feta for a different flavor profile.
• Bacon or Prosciutto: For added richness, consider adding crumbled bacon or prosciutto to the filling for a savory, smoky element.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use portobello mushrooms instead for a vegetarian-friendly option with the same filling.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the filling for a little heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, chopped spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Add a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add minced garlic and a sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or basil to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Stuff and Roll the Chicken

Take one of the prepared chicken breasts and place a generous amount of the filling in the center. Gently fold in the sides of the chicken, then roll it up tightly, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary to hold the filling in place.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the seared chicken rolls to your prepared baking dish and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If desired, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a crispy golden top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken rolls into rounds and serve with your favorite side dishes.

this RECIPE

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Make sure the chicken breasts are even in thickness before rolling to ensure even cooking. A meat mallet works best for this.
• Don’t Overstuff the Chicken: Be careful not to overstuff the chicken rolls, as this can make them harder to roll and increase the likelihood of the filling spilling out during cooking.
• Seal the Chicken Properly: Ensure that the edges of the chicken are sealed well when rolling so the filling stays intact during cooking. Toothpicks can help, but be sure to remove them before serving.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep it moist.

How to Serve

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, or with a fresh side salad. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes, quinoa, or rice to make it a more hearty meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the chicken, it’s best to freeze the rolls before baking. Wrap the stuffed chicken rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then sear and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through. For quicker reheating, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would work great in this recipe. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy rolling.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff and roll the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling to avoid excess moisture.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure all of your ingredients, like feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, are gluten-free.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for more variety.

6. What sides go well with this chicken?

This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, quinoa, or rice.

7. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is ideal for baking, you could cook the stuffed chicken in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. Just make sure to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor.

8. Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese can be substituted for feta for a different flavor. Goat cheese is creamy and tangy, offering a delicious variation.

9. Can I stuff the chicken with other cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella, goat cheese, or even cream cheese as alternatives to feta for a different flavor and texture.

10. How can I tell when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a savory and impressive dish that’s easy to make and sure to please. The combination of tender chicken with a flavorful filling makes it a crowd-pleasing option for dinner. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. With its balance of rich flavors and textures, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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