Name: Juicy Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can be swapped for chicken thighs); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground recommended); 1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled) (Can substitute with ricotta or goat cheese); 2 cups Fresh Spinach (chopped) (Kale can be used as a substitute); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped) (Fresh tomatoes can be used); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Shallots can be used as an alternative); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic is a lovely alternative); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Fresh oregano works as well); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can be used); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be a substitute)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes filled the air, whisking me away to sun-drenched Mediterranean markets. It’s amazing how a simple dish like Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes can transform a regular evening into something extraordinary. This recipe is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for both hectic weeknights and special gatherings. Each tender bite bursts with juicy chicken and creamy feta, combined with vibrant spinach and the delightful tang of sun-dried tomatoes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen! Ready to elevate your cooking game and delight your taste buds? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!

Why Make Rolled Up Chicken Tonight?

Deliciously Juicy: Each bite of this Rolled Up Chicken is filled with a flavor explosion, thanks to the creamy feta and zesty sun-dried tomatoes.

Quick & Easy: In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready for any occasion.

Impressive Presentation: The rolled-up style makes this dish a perfect showstopper for dinner parties or family meals.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ingredients like feta for goat cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers, catering to your taste!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Whether serving your family or entertaining friends, this meal is bound to be a hit. Pair it with a fresh Mediterranean salad or some garlic mashed potatoes for a complete spread!

Rolled Up Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to create a culinary masterpiece with these key ingredients!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish; you can swap these for chicken thighs if you’re craving extra flavor.
Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your dietary needs.
Black Pepper – For a touch of warmth; fresh pepper gives the best taste.

For the Filling

Feta Cheese (crumbled) – This creamy cheese adds tanginess; feel free to use ricotta or goat cheese for a different texture.
Fresh Spinach (chopped) – Packed with nutrients and a fresh flavor; kale is a great substitute if you prefer.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped) – They contribute a unique sweetness and acidity; you can replace these with fresh tomatoes for a milder taste.
Garlic (minced) – Adds fresh aroma and flavor; shallots can be replaced for a gentler option.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a spice kick; omit if you enjoy a milder flavor profile.

For Seasoning

Garlic Powder – Enhances the aromatic depth; using fresh garlic is a lovely alternative.
Dried Oregano – Infuses that Mediterranean flair; fresh oregano works just as well if available.
Smoked Paprika – Imparts a delightful smoky flavor; choose regular paprika for a subtler hint.

For Cooking

Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing and adds rich flavor; avocado oil can be a tasty swap if desired.

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is sure to be a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect cooking environment for your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking dish and an oven-safe skillet, to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully butterfly them by slicing them horizontally, creating a pocket. Once butterflied, pound each breast to a uniform thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures they cook evenly. Set aside the prepared chicken and get ready for the flavorful stuffing.

Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, diced sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Mix thoroughly until well combined. This filling is the star of your Rolled Up Chicken, bringing juicy flavors to each bite, so be sure to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Spread the feta and spinach mixture evenly over each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently roll each breast tightly from one side to the other, enclosing the filling. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the ends of the rolls, ensuring none of the delicious filling escapes while cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken Rolls
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken rolls seam-side down and sear them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown. This step locks in moisture and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Rolled Up Chicken.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The outside should be crispy, while the filling remains creamy and delicious.

Step 7: Rest and Slice the Chicken
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender. Once rested, slice the chicken rolls to reveal the beautiful stuffing, making it ready to serve and impress your guests.

What to Serve with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Looking to craft a memorable meal around this stunning dish? Let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the savory chicken, soaking up all those delightful juices.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This vibrant salad, packed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and olives, adds freshness and a touch of crunch, perfectly balancing the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots not only complements the Mediterranean flavors but also adds a colorful splash to your plate.
Herbed Couscous: The fluffy, light texture of couscous, enhanced with fresh herbs and lemon, is ideal for soaking up any remaining juices and enhancing the meal’s aromatic profile.
Tzatziki Sauce: Serve this cool, tangy cucumber yogurt sauce on the side for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the stuffed chicken.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine, like a medium-bodied Merlot, provides a lovely depth that complements the flavors of the feta and sun-dried tomatoes, making every sip a pleasure.
Chocolate Olive Oil Cake: For dessert, this moist cake drizzled with rich olive oil offers a sophisticated end to your meal, balancing the savory feel of the chicken with a hint of sweetness.

Every choice adds a unique twist, ensuring that your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes takes center stage in a feast to remember!

Make Ahead Options

These Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, the filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead to streamline your cooking process. To maintain quality, make sure to secure the rolls tightly and refrigerate promptly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply sear the chicken rolls and bake them as directed, resulting in a delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Variations & Substitutions for Rolled Up Chicken

Feel free to sprinkle your creativity over this Rolled Up Chicken recipe—there are countless ways to customize this delicious dish!

Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative in lieu of feta for a creamy texture that fits your dietary needs.
Spinach-Free: Swap spinach for kale or a mix of herbs like parsley and basil for a vibrant twist on flavor and nutrition. The fresh aroma of herbs will elevate this dish beautifully!
Heat Up: Add fresh sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or toss in chipotle powder for a smoky heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
Tomato Substitution: Instead of sun-dried tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor; the creaminess of the filling offsets the tangy notes perfectly.
Cheesy Choices: Experiment with cheese by using goat cheese or mozzarella for a twist in both texture and taste. Each cheese gives a unique profile to the stuffing.
Herb Enhancements: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary to the filling for an incredibly aromatic touch that complements the Mediterranean vibe of this dish.
Crunch Factor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the filling for a lovely crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy feta and tender chicken.

For more flavorful adventures, you might enjoy serving this alongside our delightful Garlic Chicken Broccoli for a wonderful meal or try our Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken for a quick weeknight option. Get ready to satisfy your taste buds with these fun variations!

Expert Tips for Rolled Up Chicken

Avoid Overstuffing: Ensure that you don’t pack too much filling into the chicken, as this can cause the rolls to break apart during cooking.

Pound Evenly: Flatten the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness for even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect juicy texture in your Rolled Up Chicken.

Sear for Flavor: Always sear the chicken rolls in a hot skillet before baking. This step locks in moisture and creates a delightful crispy exterior.

Rest for Juiciness: Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite flavorful and succulent.

Properly Secure Rolls: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure your chicken rolls tightly, ensuring that none of the delicious feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomato filling escapes while cooking.

How to Store and Freeze Rolled Up Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Rolled Up Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it retains its juicy flavor and texture.

Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the Rolled Up Chicken a day in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator before baking to save time on busy nights.

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

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor explosion, choose vibrant, fresh spinach with no wilting or browning. For tomatoes, look for sun-dried ones that’re soft and flavorful, ideally packed in oil. When picking feta, select a creamy texture without any signs of crumbling. Fresh and firm chicken breasts are also vital; avoid any with dark spots or an off odor.

How should I store leftovers of Rolled Up Chicken?
You can store leftover Rolled Up Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its juiciness. If you’d like to enjoy this dish later, consider wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Rolled Up Chicken, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your Rolled Up Chicken, first wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place these wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag and try to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if the chicken rolls come apart while cooking?
If your chicken rolls happen to come apart, don’t worry! It can happen if they’re overstuffed or not secured adequately. To tackle this, next time ensure you use enough toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the rolls tightly. Additionally, less filling can help; you want enough to enjoy the flavor without the risk of bursting the seams during cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the feta and ensure they are not lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy. You can easily substitute with lactose-free cheese or even silken tofu for a non-dairy option. Additionally, the recipe is naturally gluten-free; just double-check your other ingredients. If you’re making this for pets, avoid the seasoning and cheese, as these can upset their stomachs.