If you have been looking for a simple yet impressively flavorful dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Picture tender chicken breasts wrapped around the creamy tang of feta cheese and the fresh earthiness of spinach, all infused with garlic and perfectly seared to golden perfection before roasting. It strikes a wonderful balance of colors, textures, and tastes that transform plain chicken into something truly special and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to complement each other perfectly, creating a delightful blend of creamy, fresh, and savory notes with every bite. The combination of spinach and feta lends vibrant green and tangy white hues, while garlic and olive oil bring out the warmth and richness of the chicken.
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, about 6 oz each): The star of the dish, provide protein and a tender base for rolling.
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed and divided): Adds robust, aromatic flavor that penetrates the chicken.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled): Brings a tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spinach.
- 2 cups baby spinach (raw, washed and stemmed): Offers fresh greenery and a subtle earthy sweetness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to lock in juiciness and add a lovely golden crust.
How to Make Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350° F, ensuring it’s ready when your rollups need finishing. Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap—you’ll want to gently pound the chicken with the flat side of a meat tenderizer, starting from the center and working your way out. The goal is to achieve a thin, even layer about 1/4 inch thick, making it easy to roll and ensuring quick, consistent cooking later.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Filling
Now for the exciting part! Use your fingers to press the crushed garlic all over the surface of each chicken breast—this gives a punch of flavor that will seep into the meat. Next, scatter the crumbled feta cheese evenly on both breasts, holding back a little for a sprinkle on top after baking if you like. Finally, pile on the baby spinach leaves to create a bright, fresh bed inside the rollups. This mixture is what sets this dish apart unlike any ordinary stuffed chicken.
Step 3: Roll and Secure
With the fillings in place, carefully roll each chicken breast starting at the short end, rolling tightly from one side to the other to encase everything inside. To keep these neat bundles intact, secure each rollup with toothpicks inserted along the seam, trimming them as necessary so they don’t stick out. These rollups are now ready to cook, holding all those amazing flavors inside.
Step 4: Sear and Bake to Perfection
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe sauté pan over medium-high heat on your stovetop. Add the chicken rollups and brown them nicely on all sides by turning them gently—the searing locks in juiciness and adds a beautiful golden color. Once browned, cover the pan with a lid or foil and transfer it into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through, juicy, and tender, allowing the spinach and feta to melt and mingle inside.
How to Serve Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some reserved feta cheese over the cooked rollups adds a visually appealing finish and a touch of creamy tang in every bite. A few fresh spinach leaves or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brightens the plate with color and shine. You might also consider a squeeze of lemon juice to lift the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp mixed green salad or even some light, fluffy couscous that can soak up any juices. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or asparagus, give the meal more color and texture contrasts. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes are a soothing companion to the bold flavors of this chicken rollup recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the rollups crosswise into pinwheels for a stunning appetizer or party platter presentation, showcasing the swirls of spinach and feta inside. You can also arrange them whole over a bed of herbed rice or quinoa, garnished with chopped parsley for freshness. These ideas help elevate the dish, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover chicken rollups to an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them an excellent choice for make-ahead lunches or second-day dinners without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, they will remain tasty for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 325° F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a microwave on medium power works for a quick fix but may soften the crisp sear.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
While fresh baby spinach is ideal for its tender texture and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen spinach if necessary. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy chicken rollups.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or ricotta can provide similar creamy textures with a milder flavor. For a dairy-free option, try seasoned mashed tofu or vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that the rollups cook evenly and quickly. Without this step, you risk dry edges or undercooked centers, so it’s worth the extra effort for the best results.
Can I prepare the rollups ahead of time before cooking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rollups, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. This makes meal prep easier, especially if you’re entertaining or want a quick dinner option ready to pop in the oven.
What wine pairs well with Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the tangy feta and fresh spinach nicely. These wines balance the richness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe is truly a gem that turns simple ingredients into a deliciously layered meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for just two or impressing guests, the ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor and striking presentation is bound to make this recipe a treasured classic in your kitchen. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite go-to!
Print
Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy Spinach & Feta Chicken Rollups featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of garlic, feta cheese, and fresh baby spinach, seared on the stovetop and finished in the oven to perfection. This recipe offers a nutritious, protein-packed meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Rollups
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, about 6 oz each)
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed and divided)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 cups baby spinach (raw, washed and stemmed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C). Lay chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat tenderizer, gently pound from the center outward until the breasts are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Add Filling: Evenly spread crushed garlic over the surface of each chicken breast. Next, evenly distribute crumbled feta cheese over both breasts, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired. Layer baby spinach leaves evenly on top of the cheese.
- Roll and Secure: Starting at the short end of each breast, carefully roll the chicken into tight rollups. Secure each roll with toothpicks, trimming the ends so they are flush with the meat to avoid burning.
- Sear the Rollups: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe sauté pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken rollups in the pan and brown on all sides, rotating to sear evenly. This should take about 4-5 minutes total.
- Finish Cooking in Oven: Cover the sauté pan with a lid or foil to retain moisture. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165° F (74° C).
Notes
- Make sure to not overstuff the rollups to prevent filling from spilling out during cooking.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach that has been thoroughly thawed and drained.
- Use oven-safe cookware to easily transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing to retain juices.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of chicken breasts.
