Rolled Chicken with Feta and Spinach

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Rolled Chicken with Feta and Spinach: Juicy, Flavor-Packed, and Elegant

Introduction

Looking for a dish that’s both impressive and simple to make? This Rolled Chicken with Feta and Spinach is a perfect choice. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and herbs, then rolled and baked to golden perfection.

Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep, this dish combines lean protein, fresh greens, and creamy cheese for a healthy yet indulgent meal. The rolled format keeps the chicken moist, infuses it with flavor, and creates a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress.

Whether served with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a simple grain, this dish elevates your dinner table while remaining approachable and easy to prepare.

A Brief Background

Stuffed chicken dishes have long been a staple in Mediterranean and European cuisines. Using ingredients like spinach and feta adds a Greek-inspired twist reminiscent of spanakopita. The combination of creamy feta, tender spinach, and seasoned chicken creates a harmonious balance of flavors that has made this style of dish popular worldwide.

Fun fact: Rolling meat around a flavorful filling is called “roulade,” a French technique that has been adapted into many cuisines for both meats and desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy & Tender: Rolling keeps the chicken moist during baking.
  • Flavorful: Spinach, feta, garlic, and herbs infuse the chicken with rich taste.
  • Elegant Presentation: Perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.
  • Healthy & Protein-Rich: Lean chicken with nutrient-dense spinach.
  • Customizable: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or other cheeses.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Rolls:

  • 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

For the Sauce (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed:

  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Toothpicks or kitchen twine
  • Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Pro Tips:

  • Pound chicken breasts evenly for uniform rolling.
  • Squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to avoid soggy filling.
  • Use toothpicks or twine to secure rolls during baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Chicken

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Prepare the Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta cheese, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
  2. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Chicken Rolls

  1. Spread an even layer of the filling over each flattened chicken breast.
  2. Roll the chicken tightly from one end to the other.
  3. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

4. Sear the Rolls (Optional for Extra Flavor)

  1. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sear chicken rolls on all sides until lightly browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  3. This step locks in juices and adds color.

5. Bake the Chicken Rolls

  1. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven, or place rolls in a greased baking dish.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  3. Optional: Cover loosely with foil if tops brown too quickly.

6. Prepare the Sauce (Optional)

  1. In a small saucepan, combine chicken broth, cream, and Dijon mustard.
  2. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Drizzle sauce over baked chicken rolls before serving.

7. Serve

  1. Remove toothpicks or twine carefully.
  2. Slice each roll into 1–2 pieces if desired.
  3. Serve hot with sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Visual Cue: Chicken rolls should be golden, juicy, and packed with visible spinach and feta filling.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

  • Chicken Drying Out: Pound evenly and don’t overbake.
  • Filling Falling Out: Secure tightly with toothpicks or twine.
  • Spinach Too Wet: Sauté briefly or squeeze moisture out before mixing with cheese.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble rolls and refrigerate; bake before serving.
  • Reheating Leftovers: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) to retain moisture.

Variations & Customizations

  • Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Cheese Swap: Substitute feta with goat cheese or cream cheese for a creamier texture.
  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot paprika to the filling.
  • Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme, parsley, or dill for aromatic flavor.
  • Mini Rolls: Use smaller chicken cutlets for individual servings or appetizers.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

  • Slice rolls into medallions for a beautiful plated presentation.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a light salad for a balanced, elegant dinner.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Assemble rolls uncooked and freeze for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare filling and assemble rolls in advance for quick baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with cheese.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute feta with dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Can I prepare this for meal prep?
Absolutely. Assemble and store in the fridge; bake when ready.

Is it possible to cook without searing?
Yes, but searing adds color, flavor, and helps lock in moisture.

Conclusion

Rolled Chicken with Feta and Spinach is a delicious, elegant, and easy-to-make dish that combines juicy chicken with a flavorful, cheesy spinach filling. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, it delivers both taste and visual appeal.

With golden, moist chicken rolls, creamy feta, and fresh spinach, this dish proves that healthy meals can be indulgent, flavorful, and impressive. Serve with your favorite sides, drizzle with a creamy sauce, and enjoy a meal that is both nourishing and gourmet-worthy.

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