and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you adore bold flavors wrapped up in tender chicken, this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes will quickly become one of your favorites. Combining creamy feta, vibrant spinach, and rich sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that delight your palate with each bite. The way the chicken encloses the filling makes every forkful a treasure trove of deliciousness, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes add that sweet and tangy punch that elevates the entire dish to a new level of yum.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this recipe is straightforward, thanks to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding moisture, depth, or that irresistible pop of color to your plate.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas to hold all those flavorful fillings together.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors so they shine bright.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a subtle garlicky aroma.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a savory herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky undertone that makes this dish extra special.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to a gorgeous golden crust.
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, salty, and tangy—the perfect filling partner.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds freshness, a touch of earthiness, and pleasing color.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: The star ingredient providing vibrant bursts of sweet and tangy flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a quick sauté that unlocks its fragrant essence.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat if you like things a bit spicier.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to gently cook the filling ingredients to perfection.

How to Make and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying your chicken breasts—slice them horizontally almost through, then open them like a book. Give them a gentle pound until they’re about ¼ inch thick; this helps the chicken roll easily without breaking. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Step 2: Make the Filling with Spinach, Feta, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlicky fragrance flooding the kitchen. Add the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted, roughly 1 to 2 minutes. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and those delightful sun-dried tomatoes. This filling is a vibrant mix of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors that will have your taste buds singing.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Chicken

Divide the filling equally among the flattened chicken breasts, spreading it out evenly. Roll each chicken breast tightly around the filling, then secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold everything firmly in place while cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the rolled chicken breasts seam-side down and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until beautifully golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely crisp surface.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking—this helps the juices redistribute for an even more succulent bite.

How to Serve and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra crumbled feta and a few torn fresh spinach leaves on top to brighten the presentation and add a fresh, crisp contrast. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice adds a lovely finishing touch that lifts the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This rolled chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bold character. Consider a light quinoa salad, garlic-roasted potatoes, or even a creamy polenta. Grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balance out the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

For a fun twist, slice the rolled chicken into medallions and arrange them on a platter, showcasing the colorful filling swirls inside. Serve with a side of homemade tomato sauce or pesto for dipping. This approach turns your dish into an elegant crowd-pleaser perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious meal to enjoy again.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolled chicken before baking. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven or microwave to maintain the moisture and texture. Adding a splash of water or covering loosely with foil during reheating can help keep the chicken juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes have a higher moisture content and milder flavor, so the filling won’t have the same concentrated sweet and tangy punch that sun-dried tomatoes provide. However, finely diced sun-dried tomatoes soaked in warm water can be a good alternative to get that intensity.

Is it necessary to butterfly the chicken breasts?

Butterflying the chicken ensures an even thickness which makes rolling much easier and helps the chicken cook uniformly, preventing dry or undercooked spots.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether and increase the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes by a bit to maintain the filling’s richness.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No problem! Sear the chicken rolls in a regular skillet, then transfer them to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.

How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the other flavors without overwhelming them. Skip or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder dish.

Final Thoughts

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and just the right amount of fancy for any occasion. I hope you have as much fun making and savoring it as I do sharing it. Give it a try, and watch how those layers of goat cheese, greens, and sun-dried tomatoes dance together beautifully in every bite.

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