and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines freshness, bold flavors, and a touch of Mediterranean charm, then this Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is your new go-to. The vibrant spinach and creamy feta meld beautifully with the tangy, slightly sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in tender, juicy chicken breasts that hold everything together like a little flavor surprise. This recipe feels special enough for guests but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a true crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with color and taste in every bite. And Sun-Dried Tomatoes really steal the show by adding that unforgettable punch of depth and richness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple yet incredibly flavorful with just a handful of ingredients that each play a crucial role—whether it’s the zesty spices on the chicken or the creamy, tangy filling that brings it all together. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfect for rolling and stuffing.
• Salt and black pepper: The foundational seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Garlic powder and minced garlic: Both add depth, with the powder seasoning the chicken and fresh garlic warming up the filling.
• Dried oregano and smoked paprika: These herbs and spices give the chicken that Mediterranean warmth and subtle smokiness.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and searing to get golden edges and juicy chicken.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled to bring creaminess and tang to the filling.
• Fresh spinach: Chopped and wilted, it adds a lovely fresh green color and slight earthiness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Chopped and ready to infuse the filling with intense, sweet-tart flavor.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who like a touch of heat in their meal.

How to Make and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying each chicken breast and pounding it thin to about a quarter-inch thickness. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also makes rolling up the filling inside easier. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika for a vibrant and savory base.

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

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant—no one likes burnt garlic. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, which takes about a minute or two. Remove from heat, then stir in the crumbled feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes along with red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little spice. This mixture is where the magic happens, balancing creamy, tangy, earthy, and sweet notes all at once.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Chicken

Divide the savory filling evenly over each flattened chicken breast. Roll the chicken up tightly, making sure not to spill the delicious stuff inside. Secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep those beauties intact during cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Warm your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet and sear each rolled chicken breast for a couple of minutes on every side. This step locks in the juices and creates a golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Finally, slide the skillet into a preheated 375°F oven and let the chicken bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. This ensures the inside is perfectly cooked to 165°F, leaving you with tender, juicy rolls that slice beautifully and reveal their colorful, cheesy filling.

How to Serve and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the plate and add a little fresh pop of green. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top goes a long way in enhancing the flavors and adding a touch of brightness against the richness of the feta and sun-dried tomatoes.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with light, crisp side options. Think garlic roasted potatoes, a fresh Greek salad, or even some fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and pine nuts. All these sides complement the Mediterranean flavors without overpowering the star of the show—the chicken rolled up with feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, slice the chicken rolls into pinwheel pieces and arrange them on a platter for an elegant presentation. You can also serve the rolls whole with a side of dipping sauce, like a tangy tzatziki or garlic aioli, to amp up the flavor and offer some creamy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, any leftover rolled chicken should be wrapped tightly in foil or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals or a quick lunch option.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, these stuffed chicken rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the chicken moist, reheat leftovers in a covered baking dish at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Avoid overcooking to retain that juicy texture and keep the feta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes right out of the jar, or do they need to be soaked?

If your sun-dried tomatoes are packed in oil, you can use them straight away after chopping. If they’re dry-packed, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes softens them nicely for this recipe.

Is it okay to substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella can work, but feta gives that perfect salty creaminess that holds up well against the tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The sun-dried tomatoes and spinach will still provide plenty of flavor and moisture.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach? Can I use frozen spinach?

You can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to avoid a watery filling.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat and perfectly juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Rolled Up Chicken with Feta, Spinach, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together so effortlessly. The combination of flavors and textures creates a meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make. I can’t recommend it enough if you want to impress yourself and your loved ones with something vibrant, delicious, and full of sunshine on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!