Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta Recipe

Introduction

Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta is a savory and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, tangy feta cheese filling. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with something simple yet elegant. The chicken is juicy and succulent, while the feta adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the herbs and seasonings used to enhance the dish.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also delivers an impressive presentation. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta is a dish that you’ll love making again and again. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, provide helpful tips, and suggest delicious variations to suit different tastes.

Why You’ll Love Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta

• Flavorful and Savory: The combination of tender chicken and tangy feta cheese creates a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor. The feta cheese filling adds richness and a delightful creamy texture to each bite.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks sophisticated yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The rolled-up chicken with a golden crust is a visual treat, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes. You can have a gourmet meal on the table in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings or a last-minute dinner plan.
• Customizable: With simple ingredients and easy-to-adjust fillings, you can modify this recipe to suit your tastes. Add herbs, vegetables, or even other cheeses to make it your own.
• Healthy Option: Lean chicken breast provides a healthy protein source, while the feta adds a punch of flavor without overwhelming the dish with heavy cream or sauces. It’s a great option for a balanced, nutritious meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 5-8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup spinach leaves, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls

Special Equipment

Though you can make Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta using basic kitchen tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and makes it easier to roll the chicken with the filling.
2. Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish is necessary for baking the chicken once it’s rolled up. A glass or ceramic baking dish is ideal as it helps distribute heat evenly.
3. Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine: These will be used to secure the chicken rolls so that the filling doesn’t fall out during baking. Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
4. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or other optional fillings, as well as for cutting the chicken into neat portions when serving.
5. Measuring Spoons: Using proper measurements ensures you get the right balance of seasoning for the dish.
6. Basting Brush: If you plan to brush olive oil or butter on the chicken before baking, a basting brush will help distribute it evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures the filling stays inside.

Once the chicken breasts are flattened, season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. This adds a flavorful base to the chicken.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese with the chopped spinach (if using) and sun-dried tomatoes (if using). The spinach adds freshness, and the sun-dried tomatoes offer a tangy, savory note. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed.

If you prefer a creamier filling, you can mix in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or Greek yogurt. This will help bind the ingredients together and create a smoother texture.

3. Fill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the feta mixture onto the center of each chicken breast. Be careful not to overstuff, as you want the filling to stay contained during the rolling process.

Spread the filling evenly across the surface of the chicken, leaving about ½ inch of space at the edges to help secure the roll.

4. Roll the Chicken

Carefully roll up each chicken breast from one end to the other, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Tuck in the sides as you roll to help keep everything secure. Once rolled, use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the ends of the chicken rolls so the filling doesn’t spill out while cooking.

5. Prepare the Baking Dish

Drizzle olive oil over the bottom of a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the dish. Brush the top of the chicken with a little more olive oil or melted butter to help it achieve a golden, crispy crust during baking.

6. Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown on the outside, and the filling should be hot and melted.

If you like a crispier exterior, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

7. Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and makes the chicken more tender. Remove the toothpicks or twine carefully before slicing the chicken into 1-inch pieces.

Serve the Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Be sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures the chicken cooks uniformly and makes the rolling process easier.
• Don’t Overstuff the Chicken: While it’s tempting to add a lot of filling, overstuffing can make the chicken difficult to roll and cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality feta cheese will enhance the flavor of the filling. Avoid pre-shredded feta for the best texture and taste.
• Secure the Rolls Properly: Make sure to use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls tightly. If the rolls aren’t secured, the filling might leak out during baking.
• Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Variations of Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta

• Mediterranean Rolled-Up Chicken: Add Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for a more Mediterranean twist.
• Garlic and Herb Rolled-Up Chicken: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the feta filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spinach and Ricotta Rolled-Up Chicken: Swap out the feta for ricotta cheese and add sautéed spinach for a creamier filling. This variation offers a milder, richer flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Rolled-Up Chicken: Replace feta with goat cheese and add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, creamy filling with a Mediterranean flair.

Storage and Shelf Life

Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Store the cooled chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken rolls before baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken rolls can last for up to 3 months. To cook, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until fully cooked through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta

Pair this flavorful dish with complementary sides for a complete meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, provides a perfect balance to the rich chicken filling.
• Couscous or Quinoa: A light and fluffy grain like couscous or quinoa pairs nicely with the savory chicken, absorbing the juices and adding texture to the meal.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy chicken.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is a great accompaniment to this dish, perfect for soaking up any remaining juices from the chicken.

Print

Conclusion

Rolled-Up Chicken with Feta is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. The tender chicken paired with a creamy feta filling makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing something special for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!