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

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts stuffed with creamy feta cheese, fresh spinach, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. The result is a savory meal that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors. Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings, these rolled-up delights are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from spinach, this dish makes for a wholesome dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs well with various sides like salads or roasted vegetables.
• Impressive Presentation: The rolled-up appearance adds a touch of elegance to your table setting, making it look like you spent hours preparing.

Tools and Preparation

To make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife eases the cutting process, helping you slice through chicken easily when preparing your filling.
• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy cleanup once the meal is done.
• Mixing bowl: Using a mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.

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
• 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)

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to gently pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Roll the Chicken

Take one seasoned chicken breast and place a portion of the filling in the center. Roll it up tightly from one end to the other. Secure it with toothpicks or tie it with kitchen twine.

Step 5: Sear the Rolls

In a baking dish or skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, sear each rolled chicken piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake Until Cooked Through

Transfer the seared rolls to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Serve

Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Slice into rounds if desired and serve warm alongside your favorite sides! Enjoy your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes!

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

Serving your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp mixed greens salad topped with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Serve with Quinoa

• Fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and boosts the protein content, making it a perfect side.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a colorful plate and enhance the overall nutrition of your meal.

Add a Side of Rice Pilaf

• Rice pilaf adds a fragrant touch and absorbs any sauce from the chicken, enhancing each bite.

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

Perfecting your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes takes just a few straightforward steps. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes bring vibrant flavors that dried or canned products cannot match.
• Pound the chicken: Evenly pound the chicken breasts to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy.
• Seal tightly: Make sure to roll the chicken tightly to keep all the delicious filling inside during cooking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices for better flavor and texture.

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

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside your delicious rolled chicken.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting pairing.

2. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture and fresh flavor contrast.

3. Couscous Salad
   A refreshing couscous salad with herbs and lemon is light yet filling.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli provides essential nutrients while balancing out rich flavors.

5. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
   This hearty salad includes chickpeas, cucumbers, and feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean flair.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   Light and healthy zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make for a delightful gluten-free option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can greatly enhance your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls when making Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken enough can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices before rolling.
• Overstuffing the chicken: Adding too much filling can cause the chicken to burst. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect roll.
• Not sealing properly: Failing to secure your rolled chicken may result in spillage during cooking. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep everything intact.
• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking the chicken for too long may dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients elevate this dish significantly. Opt for high-quality feta cheese and fresh spinach for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing.

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

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for reference.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes; check frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, covering it to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or mozzarella for varied flavors.

How do I make Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare Rolled Up Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

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

Consider serving it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a healthy meal.

Final Thoughts

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and vibrant colors. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize the filling by adding herbs or switching up the vegetables!