Description
Tender chicken rolled up with creamy feta cheese and fresh spinach, creating a delightful bite in every piece. This simple yet elegant dish is packed with flavor and makes for a great main course or a filling appetizer.
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
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
- Protein: 40g