Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper and pound gently with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Pro Tip: Pounding ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Make the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–40 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Transfer to a bowl and mix in feta cheese, cream cheese, and chili flakes.
- Pro Tip: If using frozen spinach, squeeze out as much liquid as possible to avoid a soggy filling.
- Assemble the Rolls
- Lay each chicken breast flat, spread 2–3 tbsp of spinach-feta mixture on top.
- Roll tightly, starting from the narrow end, and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the Chicken (optional but adds flavor)
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken rolls seam-side down and sear 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Bake the Rolls
- Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.
- Transfer skillet (or place rolls in a baking dish) and bake for 20–25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 74°C / 165°F.
- Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rolls rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices inside.
- Serve warm, either whole or sliced into pinwheels.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or herbed rice.
- Make Ahead: Assemble rolls up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Notes
Variations
- Add mushrooms or zucchini to the filling.
- Swap feta with goat cheese or mozzarella.
- For spice lovers: add jalapeños or cayenne.
Substitutions
- Olive oil → avocado oil or ghee.
- Cream cheese → ricotta for lighter texture.
- Spinach → kale or Swiss chard.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Refrigerate cooked rolls for up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat gently at 160°C / 325°F to avoid drying.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Soggy filling: Drain spinach thoroughly.
- Dry chicken: Don’t overbake; use a thermometer.
- Filling leaks out: Roll tightly and secure well.
Tools & Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Toothpicks/kitchen twine
- Food thermometer
Serving Ideas
- Serve with tzatziki sauce for a Greek twist.
- Pair with quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes.
- Add a crisp white wine for a dinner-party vibe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 36 g
- Carbs: 4 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
