Rolled Up Chicken with Feta

Every time I think of Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes, I'm transported back to cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and delicious aromas danced around the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous decision to impress my friends who were coming over for dinner. I had chicken breasts in the fridge and a few other ingredients that seemed to magically come together. The joy on their faces when I served it was priceless! Not only did they devour it, but they also kept asking for the recipe. This dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a quiet family dinner or a festive gathering, because it's both elegant and comforting.

Springtime always feels like the right season for this recipe. As the flowers bloom and fresh produce becomes more abundant, I love to incorporate vibrant flavors and colors into my meals. This Rolled Up Chicken is a celebration of those seasonal ingredients, offering a fresh and healthy option that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing! So, if you're looking to impress your loved ones while keeping things simple, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You'll Love "Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes"

• This dish comes together quickly, with just 15 minutes of prep time!
• Minimal ingredients make it easy to whip up without a long shopping list.
• It's family-friendly - even the picky eaters will love the flavors.
• Perfect for meal prep; it's freezer-friendly for those busy weeknights.
• Elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
• Healthy and packed with nutrients from the spinach and tomatoes!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (feel free to use baby spinach for a milder flavor)
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (try using a good quality Greek feta for the best taste)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (opt for oil-packed for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is always a great choice)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (don't worry if you love garlic; you can add more!)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (freshly cracked pepper brings out the flavors beautifully)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional, but I love the extra flavor it adds)
• Fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because you want those chicken rolls to bake evenly and come out perfectly juicy!

Make the Filling

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix everything together until it's well combined. You want to see those vibrant colors mingling together - it's like a little party in a bowl!

Prepare the Chicken

1. Grab your chicken breasts and place them on a clean cutting board. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each breast to an even thickness - about ½ inch thick. This helps them cook evenly!
2. Don't worry if they look a little rough around the edges; they'll be beautiful once they're rolled up!

Assemble the Rolls

1. Take a generous spoonful of the spinach mixture and spread it over each chicken breast. Be sure to leave a little space at the edges so the filling doesn't spill out too much when you roll them up.
2. Now, starting from one end, roll each chicken breast tightly. Secure the rolls with toothpicks to keep everything tucked in nicely. You can do a little dance of joy while you roll - I know I do!

Bake the Chicken

1. Place the rolled chicken in a baking dish, seam side down. If you have any leftover filling, sprinkle it on top for extra flavor.
2. Sprinkle a bit of Italian seasoning over the rolls, and add more salt and pepper if desired.
3. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Final Touches

1. Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and keeps the meat tender.
2. When you're ready to serve, slice the rolls and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for that extra pop of color and freshness.

Variations

• Add a layer of roasted red peppers for a sweet twist.
• For a lighter version, use chicken thighs or turkey cutlets.
• Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
• Make it dairy-free by using a vegan cheese alternative.
• Try adding chopped olives for a salty kick!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Rolled Up Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice adds a nice touch. It's also delightful with some warm crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices! You can find more delicious side dish ideas here.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each rolled chicken tightly in foil, and they'll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

• If you have fresh spinach, feel free to sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil for extra flavor before adding it to the filling.
• For a nutty flavor, consider adding a handful of pine nuts or walnuts to the filling.
• Gluten-free? This dish is naturally gluten-free, just check your ingredients for any hidden gluten. For more gluten-free recipes, check out our blog.
• Adjust the garlic to your preference; roasted garlic can add a sweet depth to the filling.
• Storing leftovers in a single layer helps maintain the shape of the rolls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze "Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes"?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze this dish! Wrap each rolled chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them so you know what you have on hand!

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If feta isn't your thing, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a creamier texture or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan feta or cream cheese alternatives that will still give you that delightful creaminess.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rolls a day ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even more delicious when you finally pop them in the oven!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes a try. It's such a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, I promise it will bring smiles and satisfied bellies. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process, so don't stress if things don't go perfectly. Just have fun and savor every bite! I can't wait for you to share your own stories of this delicious recipe - happy cooking!