Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls Recipe

These Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls are a sophisticated and flavorful dish that’s perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal. With a savory filling of spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, each roll is seared to golden perfection and baked until tender. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
3. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Assemble the Rolls:

1. Spoon the spinach and feta mixture onto each chicken breast.
2. Roll up each chicken breast tightly, securing it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Sear and Bake:

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the seared chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Serve:

1. Remove the toothpicks or twine before serving.
2. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for different flavor profiles.
2. Cheese Substitutes: Try goat cheese or ricotta in place of feta for a different taste.
3. Additional Veggies: Incorporate roasted red peppers or mushrooms into the filling for added texture and flavor.
4. Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium feta cheese and omit additional salt to reduce sodium content.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
   Yes, you can assemble the rolls a day ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach filling for some heat.
4. Can I freeze the chicken rolls?
   Yes, freeze uncooked chicken rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Can I make this dish without sun-dried tomatoes?
   Yes, you can omit them or substitute with another ingredient like olives or roasted red peppers.
7. What if I don’t have toothpicks or kitchen twine?
   Use a baking dish with high sides to help keep the rolls together while cooking.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, try different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor.
9. How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?
   Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and letting the chicken rest before serving.
10. What can I serve with these rolls?
    Serve with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls offer an elegant and delicious way to enjoy chicken. The combination of tender chicken, savory spinach and feta, and the rich sun-dried tomatoes makes for a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy!