and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for an irresistible dinner that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare, this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is your new go-to. Packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a beautiful balance of creamy feta and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish that delights the eyes and the palate alike. The tender chicken wraps the flavorful filling perfectly, making each bite a harmonious blend of juicy meat and savory goodness that’s both comforting and impressive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients is all it takes to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component has a role to play: the chicken provides a tender, juicy base; the feta adds creamy saltiness; fresh spinach brings a mild earthiness and vibrant green color, and the sun-dried tomatoes give a punch of tang and concentrated sweetness.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for an easy-to-roll and tender result.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken beautifully.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances the creaminess.
• Garlic powder: Gives a subtle aromatic depth.
• Dried oregano: Brings a fragrant Mediterranean touch.
• Smoked paprika: Imparts smoky warmth and rich color.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and searing to develop flavor and moisture.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled for creamy tanginess.
• Fresh spinach: Chopped and lightly sautéed to wilt but keep vibrant.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped, for that essential sweet and savory burst.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for fragrant intensity.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to lift the filling if you like a spicy kick.

How to Make and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying your chicken breasts and pounding them down to about ¼-inch thickness. This helps create an even surface that’s easier to roll and cooks evenly. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. This seasoning mix preps the chicken with a lovely base flavor that complements the rich filling perfectly.

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

In a warm pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, which should take just a couple of minutes. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and those flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. For an extra touch, sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice that balances the creamy feta.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Chicken

Divide your savory filling evenly across each chicken breast. Then, starting from one side, roll the chicken tightly around the filling. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold everything together during cooking. This rolling technique locks in all the moisture and flavor—getting that rich taste and sun-dried tomatoes nestled inside every slice.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken Rolls

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the rolled chicken in the pan and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until each side turns a golden brown. This caramelization locks in flavor and adds a wonderful texture before baking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Rest the chicken for five minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute, preserving that juicy tenderness with the bold flavors of feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Serve and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

Simple fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or basil add a lovely color contrast and aroma. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish’s rich flavors while complementing the tangy sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think lemony couscous, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides provide a clean balance to the richness of the chicken, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, making every bite satisfyingly well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

For a dinner party, slice the rolled chicken into elegant medallions to showcase the colorful filling. Arrange on a platter with a sprinkle of more crumbled feta and a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for visual appeal. You can also serve it with a creamy garlic sauce or drizzle of pesto to elevate the presentation and flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making an excellent next-day meal or lunch.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken rolls tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until warmed through to keep the chicken moist and tender. Microwaving works too but can risk drying out the rolls, so cover them and heat in short bursts.

FAQs

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

Fresh tomatoes won’t pack the same concentrated flavor or chewiness that sun-dried tomatoes provide. If you must substitute, try roasting fresh tomatoes to deepen their flavor before using.

What if I don’t have feta cheese?

Go for other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or a firm ricotta salata. They add creaminess but will shift the flavor profile slightly.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Instead of chicken, use large portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices to wrap the feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty vegetarian twist.

Do I need to soak sun-dried tomatoes before using?

If they’re dry-packed, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes softens them nicely. Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes can be used straight from the jar.

Is it possible to grill the rolled chicken?

Yes! After rolling and securing the chicken, grill over medium heat using indirect heat. Rotate frequently and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for juicy results with added smoky flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes quickly becomes a beloved favorite because it feels like a fancy meal without fuss or hours in the kitchen. The way the juicy chicken embraces that punchy, creamy filling is pure comfort with a gourmet touch. I encourage you to try making this delightful dish soon and watch how your family or guests savor every bite and ask for seconds. It truly shows how delicious and approachable cooking with sun-dried tomatoes can be.

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