Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Chicken Roll-Ups
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during my culinary travels in the Mediterranean. The vibrant flavors of the region inspired me to create a dish that could be enjoyed at home. After several trials, I perfected these Savory Chicken Roll-Ups, making them a staple in my kitchen. They represent the joy of sharing good food with family and friends."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in creating dishes that honor traditional flavors. His passion for dinner recipes has led him to explore various culinary techniques, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients that reflect the region's heritage.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Chicken Roll-Ups served on a plate

Why This Savory Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its rich blend of Mediterranean flavors and ease of preparation. The filling combines fresh ingredients like spinach and feta, creating a delicious contrast with the tender chicken. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

The technique of rolling the chicken ensures that the filling is perfectly enclosed, keeping it moist during cooking. Baking the roll-ups results in a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This method not only enhances the flavor but also presents beautifully when served.

💡 Professional Tip

To ensure your chicken roll-ups are flavorful, marinate the chicken in olive oil and herbs for at least 30 minutes before stuffing. This adds depth to the taste. Additionally, using fresh ingredients for the filling will enhance the overall flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Before baking, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

If you're not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Alternatively, use mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just ensure that the cheese you choose complements the other ingredients.

The chicken roll-ups are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the exterior should be golden brown and crispy. You can also check by cutting one open to ensure there is no pink meat inside.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked roll-ups. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice. You can also serve them with a tangy yogurt sauce for dipping. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider adding pita bread and hummus as well.

Leftover Savory Chicken Roll-Ups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the chicken in advance, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Just ensure to follow the proper storage guidelines.

Reheat the Savory Chicken Roll-Ups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the breadcrumbs. You can also use a microwave, but be aware that it may make the coating softer.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken roll-ups may turn out dry if overcooked or if the chicken is too lean.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you cook the roll-ups just until they reach the safe internal temperature. Consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the coating isn't crispy, it may be due to insufficient oil or cooking time.

Solution: Ensure the roll-ups are well-coated in breadcrumbs and lightly drizzled with olive oil before baking. Increase the baking time slightly for extra crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and rubbery.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Remove the roll-ups from the oven as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the roll-up is undercooked, it may still be pink or unevenly cooked.

Recovery: Return the roll-ups to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning while ensuring they cook through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if they are cooked for too long.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature slightly and keep an eye on the roll-ups while they bake. If they begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish turns out too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance it out.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, serve with a side of unsalted rice or bread to help absorb the saltiness.

Bland: To fix blandness, add more seasoning or serve with a flavorful sauce to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Chicken Roll-Ups

Essential Ingredients for Savory Chicken Roll-Ups

The key ingredients in Savory Chicken Roll-Ups are fresh chicken, spinach, and feta cheese, which provide a delightful flavor profile. Sun-dried tomatoes and olives add a Mediterranean touch, enhancing the overall taste. Using high-quality ingredients ensures that each bite is as flavorful as possible.

When selecting your chicken, opt for organic or free-range options for better taste and texture. Fresh spinach and high-quality feta cheese significantly contribute to the dish's success. Don't forget to use fresh herbs and spices for an aromatic boost.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy rolling and cooking. Flatten them slightly with a meat tenderizer for even cooking and easier stuffing.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nutritious and vibrant element to the filling. You can also use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
  • Feta Cheese: Feta cheese gives the roll-ups a distinctive tangy flavor. Look for blocks of feta rather than crumbled varieties for better texture in the filling.
Cooking process for Savory Chicken Roll-Ups

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Creating Savory Chicken Roll-Ups is straightforward with a few simple steps. Start by preparing your filling and rolling the chicken tightly to ensure it stays moist during cooking. This method not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each piece cooks evenly.

The baking process is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior. By using a moderate oven temperature, you allow the chicken to cook through without burning the outside. Following these steps will guarantee impressive results every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Chicken Roll-Ups

The key to making perfect Savory Chicken Roll-Ups lies in the rolling technique. By rolling the chicken tightly and securing it with toothpicks, you ensure that the filling remains intact during cooking. This technique also helps the chicken retain its moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful roll-ups.

Savory Chicken Roll-Ups

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
    For serving

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup spinach
    Chopped
  • 1 cup feta cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup olives
    Sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all the ingredients and prepare them as listed.

  2. Make the Filling

    In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, olive oil, oregano, and lemon juice.

  3. Stuff the Chicken

    Take a slice of chicken breast and place a spoonful of filling at one end. Roll tightly and secure with a toothpick.

  4. Coat the Rolls

    Roll each stuffed chicken piece in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

  5. Arrange in Baking Dish

    Place the chicken roll-ups in a greased baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.

  6. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

  7. Prepare Marinara Sauce

    While the chicken is baking, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

  8. Serve

    Remove the chicken roll-ups from the oven, serve warm with marinara sauce drizzled on top.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Savory Chicken Roll-Ups, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These roll-ups are best served warm and can be accompanied by a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of yogurt sauce can elevate the dish even further.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as using ricotta cheese or adding herbs like basil and thyme. You can also substitute chicken for turkey or even eggplant for a vegetarian option.