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 combines succulent chicken breasts with flavorful feta cheese, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a balance of taste and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends with its mouthwatering flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich taste profile that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Great for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. This dish fits any occasion!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins from the chicken and vegetables, this recipe is both satisfying and healthy.
• Easy Clean-Up: Using just one baking dish means less mess to clean up after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to serve directly from the oven.
• Mixing bowl: This is essential for combining ingredients without spilling or mess.
• Knife: A good knife helps in chopping ingredients quickly and safely.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

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)
• 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 when you place the chicken inside, it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
3. Season both sides of each breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Roll the Chicken

1. Lay out each seasoned chicken breast flat on a clean surface.
2. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one end of each breast.
3. Carefully roll up the chicken tightly around the filling.
4. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Place rolled chicken in a baking dish seam-side down.
2. Drizzle with an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Enjoy your Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes as a delightful main course!

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 is an opportunity to elevate the dish and impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement the flavors of this delightful recipe.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh mixed greens as a base for the chicken rolls. The crispness of the greens pairs beautifully with the savory filling.

With a Tangy Yogurt Sauce

• A simple yogurt sauce can enhance the flavors. Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a refreshing dip.

Accompanied by Quinoa Salad

• Quinoa salad adds a nutritious element. Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley for a light side.

Stuffed Inside Pita Bread

• For a fun twist, serve the chicken rolls in warm pita bread. Add lettuce and tomatoes for added crunch.

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

Perfecting your Rolled Up Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose the right chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Season adequately: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
• Sauté spinach well: Ensure spinach is wilted before rolling it up to avoid excess moisture that could make the chicken soggy.
• Use toothpicks: Secure each roll with toothpicks to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain juices when slicing.

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

Pairing your Rolled Up Chicken with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings both color and flavor to your plate.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the chicken perfectly.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf
   A light rice pilaf with herbs adds a fragrant touch that balances the richness of the chicken rolls.
4. Steamed Asparagus
   Simply steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a bright contrast in texture and taste.
5. Mediterranean Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, cucumber, and tomatoes provides a refreshing side dish option.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred can be an enjoyable addition that brings summer vibes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes.

• Ignoring chicken thickness: If your chicken breasts are too thick, they may not cook evenly. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness before rolling.
• Overstuffing the chicken: Adding too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause the filling to spill out during cooking. Use the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping seasoning: Seasoning the chicken is essential for flavor. Don’t forget to season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Not letting it rest: After cooking, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture. Skipping this step can lead to dry meat.
• Using old spinach or tomatoes: Fresh ingredients make a difference in taste. Always check that your spinach and sun-dried tomatoes are fresh before using them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

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

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth. Cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different cheeses in Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

Yes! You can substitute feta cheese with mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How can I customize my Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Feel free to adjust herbs based on your preference as well!

What should I serve with Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes?

Great side options include rice pilaf, quinoa salad, or roasted vegetables that complement the flavors well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well in both refrigerator and freezer.

Final Thoughts

Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your favorite ingredients. Try it today for an impressive meal that your family will love!