These Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls are a family favorite, packed with savory flavors and a nostalgic touch. Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy spinach and feta filling, rolled to perfection, and baked until tender. This is the kind of dish Grandma would proudly serve at Sunday dinners, and it’s bound to become a staple in your home too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with protein and nutrient-rich spinach.
- Simple Elegance: Easy enough for weeknights yet fancy enough for special occasions.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or cheese for a unique twist.
Ingredients
For the chicken rolls:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded thin)
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Cream cheese, softened
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Italian seasoning
For topping:
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Paprika (optional)
The full ingredient list and measurements are in the recipe card below.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, mix the cooked spinach with feta cheese and cream cheese until well combined.
Step 3: Roll the Chicken
Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Roll the chicken tightly, starting from the shorter end, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
Step 4: Sear and Bake
Heat a bit of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and a pinch of paprika on top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Step 5: Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Pound Evenly: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier.
- Secure the Rolls: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the rolls intact while cooking.
- Don’t Overfill: Spread the filling evenly but avoid overstuffing to prevent it from spilling out.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Cheese Swaps: Use goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier filling.
- Add Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley complements the spinach and feta beautifully.
- Try Different Fillings: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve these Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or herb-infused rice.
- A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables.
A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also freeze uncooked chicken rolls for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw the spinach and squeeze out excess water before mixing with the cheese.
2. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
After searing, transfer the chicken rolls to a baking dish for the oven step.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.
4. What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Don’t overbake! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls are the perfect balance of tradition and flavor. With a creamy, cheesy filling and tender chicken, they’re a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special celebration, these rolls are sure to bring joy and fond memories to the table. Give them a try, and let Grandma’s legacy live on!
Print
Grandma’s Best Recipes: Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Grandma’s Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls are a timeless classic! Tender chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and garlic, then rolled and baked to golden perfection. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional for creamier filling)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently with a meat mallet to an even thickness (about ¼ inch). - Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. - Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped spinach, feta cheese, minced garlic, and cream cheese until well combined. - Roll the Chicken:
Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly onto each chicken breast. Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks. - Coat the Chicken Rolls:
In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and paprika. Dip each chicken roll in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. - Cook the Chicken Rolls:
Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side). Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). - Serve:
Remove toothpicks before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken roll
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg