The Best Rolled Chicken with Feta: Elegant, Juicy, and Packed with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rolled chicken with feta is one of those dishes that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Juicy chicken breasts are filled with creamy, tangy feta cheese and aromatic herbs, then rolled up and baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. What makes this recipe the best is its versatility — you can add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted peppers to suit your taste. I once tried this dish with a sprinkle of lemon zest inside the roll, and it elevated the flavor beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a weeknight meal, this rolled chicken with feta always impresses. It’s elegant, protein-packed, and deliciously Mediterranean.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose medium-sized breasts and pound them evenly thin to make rolling easy and ensure even cooking.

Feta cheese – The star of the filling. Its creamy, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with chicken and herbs. Crumbled feta melts slightly while keeping a rich, crumbly texture inside the roll.

Spinach (optional) – Adds color, nutrients, and freshness. Sauté lightly before adding to the filling to remove excess moisture.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic deepens the flavor and complements the feta beautifully.

Olive oil – Used for sautéing, brushing, and baking, giving the chicken a golden finish and added richness.

Lemon zest and juice – Brightens the dish and balances the saltiness of the feta with a hint of citrus.

Fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, or dill) – Bring that signature Mediterranean aroma and depth of flavor.

Salt and black pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning both the filling and the chicken.

Paprika (optional) – Adds color and a subtle smokiness to the baked exterior.

Toothpicks or kitchen twine – To secure the chicken rolls and keep the filling neatly inside while baking.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound gently with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, mix the crumbled feta, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and lemon zest. If using spinach, sauté it briefly in olive oil until wilted, then mix it into the filling.

Spread the feta mixture evenly over each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll up each breast from one end to the other, securing with toothpicks or tying with kitchen twine.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). For extra flavor, drizzle with lemon juice and a touch of olive oil before serving.

Slice the rolls into medallions for an elegant presentation, or serve whole alongside roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, while cooking (searing and baking) requires 30 minutes. Total time: about 50 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture tender and juicy.

Variations and Customizations

Spinach & Feta Roll-Ups – A classic Greek-inspired combination that adds freshness and color to the filling.

Sun-Dried Tomato Feta Chicken – Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the feta filling for a sweet, tangy burst.

Mediterranean Olive Feta Chicken – Add sliced kalamata olives for a bold, briny flavor.

Garlic Herb Butter Roll-Ups – Spread garlic butter inside before rolling for extra richness and aroma.

Feta and Roasted Pepper Rolls – Combine crumbled feta with roasted red peppers for a colorful, smoky contrast.

Cream Cheese & Feta Blend – Mix feta with cream cheese for a creamier, smoother filling.

Pesto Feta Rolls – Spread basil pesto over the chicken before adding feta for a fragrant, flavorful twist.

Lemon Dill Chicken Rolls – Use fresh dill and lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor perfect for spring or summer meals.

Spicy Feta Chicken – Add chili flakes or a touch of harissa paste for a kick of heat.

Feta-Stuffed Chicken Wrapped in Prosciutto – Wrap each roll in prosciutto before baking for an elegant, salty-sweet finish.

FAQs

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks. Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage while baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the rolls up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best feta to use?

A high-quality Greek feta made from sheep’s milk gives the best creamy, tangy flavor.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely — just sear first, then grill over medium heat until fully cooked.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well for juicier rolls, though they may take slightly longer to cook.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace feta with a plant-based feta alternative or a dairy-free cheese of your choice.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

Can I freeze rolled chicken?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What side dishes go best with this recipe?

Roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a Greek salad pair beautifully.

Can I add sauce on top?

A light lemon butter sauce or a drizzle of tzatziki complements it perfectly.

Conclusion

This rolled chicken with feta recipe is a true standout — flavorful, juicy, and effortlessly elegant. The creamy feta filling contrasts beautifully with the tender, golden chicken, making every bite rich and satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic spinach and feta combination or try one of the flavorful variations, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again because it’s just that good — simple, delicious, and absolutely unforgettable.

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