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

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that brings together savory flavors and vibrant ingredients. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe showcases succulent chicken breasts rolled around creamy feta, fresh spinach, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for dinner tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with lean protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious option the whole family will love.
• Impressive Presentation: Rolled chicken looks stunning on the plate, making it great for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious dish without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of ingredients for even cooking.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish evenly distributes heat for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining your filling ingredients before rolling them into the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 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)

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up:
1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Once the chicken is prepared:
1. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika.
2. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine olive oil, crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 4: Roll Up the Chicken

Now it’s time to assemble:
1. Spoon about one-quarter of the filling onto each seasoned chicken breast.
2. Carefully roll each breast tightly from one end to another.
3. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Finally:
1. Place the rolled-up chicken in a baking dish.
2. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until cooked through.

Enjoy your flavorful Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes!

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

Serving rolled up chicken with feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful meal experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will impress your family or guests.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Accompany with Pesto Pasta

• Tossed pasta in basil pesto provides a fresh herby flavor that balances the savory notes in the chicken.

Serve with Quinoa Pilaf

• Quinoa pilaf made with herbs and vegetables adds texture and is a nutritious side to your chicken dish.

Add a Creamy Dip

• A yogurt-based dip or tzatziki can provide a cool contrast to the warm, savory chicken.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and sweetness, making for a vibrant plate alongside your rolled up chicken.

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

Perfecting this dish ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your rolled up chicken.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and good-quality feta cheese for optimal taste.

• Pound Chicken Evenly: Flattening the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and makes rolling easier.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Use Toothpicks or Twine: Secure the rolls tightly using toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.

• Let Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it more tender.

Best Side Dishes for Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with rolled up chicken.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that complements the dish well.

2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely against the rich flavors of the chicken.

3. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes gives a delightful Mediterranean touch.

4. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for an excellent base for the rolled chicken.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes balances the savory aspects of the main dish.

6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil provides a light and healthy alternative to pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cooking with too much seasoning can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balanced flavors.
• Not securing the rolls properly may cause them to fall apart during cooking. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold them together.
• Forgetting to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat before placing your rolled chicken inside.
• Using stale ingredients like old feta or wilted spinach can affect taste and texture. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken can result in a dry texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Serve this dish with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use different cheeses in Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Yes! Feel free to substitute feta with goat cheese or mozzarella according to your taste preference.

How long does it take to prepare Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, followed by a cooking time of around 30 minutes.

Can I make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful meal that combines rich flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and easy enough for any home cook. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables!