Spinach and Feta Chicken Rolls

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Skill Level: Easy to Moderate

• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

• Dish Type: Main Course / Protein Dish

 Ingredients

For the Chicken Rolls:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Spinach & Feta Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach (or 1½ cups frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup cream cheese or ricotta (optional for creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped

• Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon wedges

• Extra crumbled feta

• Chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, basil)

 Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife & cutting board

• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for flattening chicken)

• Skillet or sauté pan

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine

• Baking dish or sheet pan

• Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)

 Time Breakdown

 Instructions

 Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap.

2. Gently pound to about ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian seasoning.

 Make the Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted (2–3 minutes). If using frozen, just heat through.

4. Remove from heat and stir in feta, cream cheese (if using), herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly.

 Assemble the Rolls

1. Lay each chicken breast flat and place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling on one end.

2. Roll up tightly like a burrito, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

3. Optional: Lightly sear rolls in a skillet with olive oil for 2–3 minutes to add color before baking.

 Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place rolls seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish.

3. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Let rest 5 minutes, then remove toothpicks and slice (if desired).

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or lemon rice

• Add a simple Greek salad with olives, cucumber, and tomato

• Drizzle with tzatziki or a quick lemon-herb yogurt sauce

 Nutrition Estimate (Per Roll)

Varies depending on cheese used and serving size.