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

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and elegance, then Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect choice! This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and I know it will soon become one in yours too. The tender chicken is stuffed with creamy feta cheese, vibrant spinach, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s fantastic for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or meal prep—everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these rolls ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome! You might already have some of them in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this lovely dish.

For the Chicken Rolls

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the Cheese: Use goat cheese or ricotta instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or artichokes for an extra layer of taste and nutrition.
• Change the Protein: Try using turkey or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist!
• Herb It Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley mixed into the filling for added freshness.

How to Make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take your chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about ½ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and makes rolling much easier!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. This step infuses flavor into the meat and enhances the overall dish.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir until well mixed. This filling is what makes our rolled-up chicken so tasty!

Step 4: Roll It Up

Take a spoonful of the filling mixture and place it at one end of each chicken breast. Carefully roll up each breast tightly starting from the filled end. Secure with toothpicks if needed to keep everything inside during cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Rolls

In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, place your chicken rolls seam side down into the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds a nice crust that enhances flavor!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Baking ensures that all those wonderful flavors meld together while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done baking, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into rounds. Serve these beautiful rolls warm with your favorite side dishes like quinoa or steamed veggies. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Making the perfect rolled-up chicken is all about the little details that elevate the dish to something truly special. Here are some tips to ensure your creation is a hit!

• Pound the Chicken: Gently pound each chicken breast to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly and makes rolling easier.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes instead of canned. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Don’t Overstuff: It can be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can make it difficult to roll the chicken properly. Stick to the recommended amounts for a neat presentation.

• Seal with Toothpicks: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolled chicken. This will ensure that your delicious filling stays intact while cooking.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes for juicier slices.

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

Presenting your rolled-up chicken beautifully can make any meal feel special! Here are some ways to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the feta and spinach.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory filling.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add both color and nutrition to your plate.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory filling of your chicken.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add crunch and freshness; toss them with a little olive oil and lemon juice for extra flavor.

With these serving suggestions, your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that you always have a wholesome dinner option ready. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each rolled chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• For frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delightful dish!

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta in Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique tangy flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just ensure the cheese can melt well.

What side dishes pair well with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Quinoa or couscous also make excellent sides, complementing the chicken’s flavors beautifully.

Can I make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Follow the storage guidelines above for best results.

Is Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is ideal for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes as much as I do! It’s a fantastic dish that combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients into one delightful roll. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and let your culinary creativity shine—happy cooking!