Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

There’s something truly special about creating a dish that not only satisfies a hunger but also fills the kitchen with aromas that make you feel at home. That’s exactly how I feel when making Greek Style Chicken Roulade. It’s a dish that brings together the warmth of family gatherings and the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the sound of laughter in the background, and the scent of freshly cooked chicken wafting through the air. This roulade, filled with vibrant ingredients like spinach and feta, is perfect for both cozy family dinners and special occasions. I remember the first time I made it; I was inspired by a visit to a lovely Greek taverna that served a similar dish. Ever since, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 50 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
150 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
22 g
Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

Why You’ll Love This Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Flavor Explosion

First and foremost, the flavors in Greek Style Chicken Roulade are simply out of this world. The combination of fresh spinach, aromatic dill, and tangy feta cheese creates a filling that’s bursting with Mediterranean goodness. Each bite is a delightful surprise, making it much more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

Elegant Presentation

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also visually stunning. The rolled chicken looks impressive on the table, showcasing its vibrant filling. You can slice it into beautiful rounds and serve it on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs. It’s perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Easy to Prepare

Despite its elegant appearance, Greek Style Chicken Roulade is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that looks like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant. This makes it an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Customizable Filling

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences. Want to add some sun-dried tomatoes or olives? Go for it! The chicken acts as a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.

Healthy and Wholesome

Using fresh and wholesome ingredients, Greek Style Chicken Roulade is not only delicious but also healthy. The dish is packed with lean protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious option for any meal. It’s a great way to enjoy something hearty while keeping your health goals in check.

Perfect for Leftovers

Finally, leftovers from this dish are just as delightful. You can slice them up for sandwiches or serve them cold with a salad the next day. It’s a meal that keeps on giving, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Ingredients Required for Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

The ingredients for Greek Style Chicken Roulade are thoughtfully selected to balance flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The star of the show, the chicken, is complemented by an array of fresh herbs and vegetables, creating a wholesome filling that’s bound to impress.

  • 1 whole chicken, cleaned and deboned: This forms the base of our roulade, providing the perfect canvas for our flavorful filling.
  • 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
  • 400g spinach, washed and roughly chopped: The fresh greens not only provide nutrition but also a vibrant color.
  • 2 tbsp dill, finely chopped: A key herb in Greek cuisine, it enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2 tsp mint, finely chopped: A refreshing addition, lending a unique taste to the roulade.
  • 2 tsp parsley, finely chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
  • ½ fresh green onion, finely chopped: Complements the other flavors in the filling.
  • 100g feta cheese: The creamy, tangy cheese that ties all the flavors together.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the dish.
  • Olive oil: Used for cooking and adding richness to the filling.

The Method for Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Making Greek Style Chicken Roulade is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and visually stunning.

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C/355°F, ensuring both top and bottom heating elements are working. This temperature is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly.

  2. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to caramelize. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the onion.

  3. Next, add the spinach, dill, mint, parsley, and green onion to the pan. Sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the herbs are fragrant.

  4. Incorporate the feta cheese, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once done, transfer the filling to a strainer to cool and drain any excess liquid.

  5. On a clean work surface, lay out the deboned chicken. Brush it with a bit more olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread the filling evenly over the surface of the chicken, making sure to cover it entirely.

  6. Carefully roll the chicken tightly, ensuring the filling stays in place. Tie it with kitchen twine at five points to secure it. If the chicken is uneven in thickness, gently pound the thicker areas with a meat mallet to help flatten them for a more even roll.

  7. Heat a large pan over high heat and sear the roulade for about 1 minute on all sides until it’s well browned. This step adds a beautiful crust and depth of flavor.

  8. Transfer the roulade to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover it first with parchment paper and then with aluminum foil to keep it moist during baking. Bake for 1½ hours.

  9. After 1½ hours, uncover the roulade and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. This final step crisps up the outside.

  10. Once cooked, let the roulade rest for about 10 minutes. Remove the twine, slice into portions, and serve with mashed or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Quality Chicken: Choose a fresh, organic chicken for the best flavor and texture. The quality of the meat will significantly impact the final dish.
  • Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs whenever possible. They bring a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match.
  • Resting Time: Always let the roulade rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice remains moist and flavorful.
  • Kitchen Twine: When tying the roulade, ensure the twine is tight to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
  • Serving Temperature: This roulade is excellent hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings or picnics.

Expert Tips about Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

To ensure your Greek Style Chicken Roulade turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to follow:

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the roulade before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness complements the rich flavors of the roulade.
  • Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add roasted peppers for a twist on the traditional filling.
  • Cooking Tools: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C/165°F.

What to Pair With Greek Style Chicken Roulade

  • Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables make a colorful and healthy side dish that complements the flavors of the roulade.
  • Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta is a perfect pairing, adding a crisp contrast.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that can soak up the juices from the roulade.
  • Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs can be a flavorful base for serving the roulade slices.
  • Occasions: This dish is excellent for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply an impressive weeknight dinner.
  • Leftover Ideas: Leftover roulade is great for sandwiches or served cold with a dipping sauce for snacks.

FAQ

A chicken roulade is a dish made by rolling a flat piece of chicken breast with a filling, then cooking it. The filling often includes ingredients such as vegetables, cheese, and herbs, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish. In the case of Greek Style Chicken Roulade, the filling incorporates ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, embodying Mediterranean flavors.

Yes, you can absolutely prepare Greek Style Chicken Roulade in advance. You can roll and secure it a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. This is especially handy for meal prepping or when hosting guests. Just make sure to let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Chicken roulade pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You could serve it with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Additionally, consider pairing it with rice pilaf or a crusty bread to soak up any juices. The options are endless, and you can mix and match according to your taste preferences!

To ensure the chicken roulade is cooked properly, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the roulade and check that the juices run clear, and the meat is no longer pink. It’s important to let it rest after cooking for juiciness.

Conclusion

The Greek Style Chicken Roulade is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant filling of spinach and feta, making it a showstopper for any meal. Its unique flavors and elegant presentation are sure to impress family and friends alike. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become your new favorite dish. Enjoy the process of making it as much as the delicious results!

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

Greek Style Chicken Roulade

The ultimate comfort food, Greek Style Chicken Roulade combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and creamy feta for an irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Greek
Servings 9 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Frying Pan
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken cleaned and deboned
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 400 g spinach washed and roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp dill finely chopped
  • 2 tsp mint finely chopped
  • 2 tsp parsley finely chopped
  • ½ fresh green onion finely chopped
  • 100 g feta cheese
  • salt
  • pepper
  • olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C/355°F, ensuring both top and bottom heating elements are working. This temperature is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly.
  • Heat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, sautĂ© the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to caramelize. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the onion.
  • Next, add the spinach, dill, mint, parsley, and green onion to the pan. SautĂ© for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the herbs are fragrant.
  • Incorporate the feta cheese, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once done, transfer the filling to a strainer to cool and drain any excess liquid.
  • On a clean work surface, lay out the deboned chicken. Brush it with a bit more olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread the filling evenly over the surface of the chicken, making sure to cover it entirely.
  • Carefully roll the chicken tightly, ensuring the filling stays in place. Tie it with kitchen twine at five points to secure it. If the chicken is uneven in thickness, gently pound the thicker areas with a meat mallet to help flatten them for a more even roll.
  • Heat a large pan over high heat and sear the roulade for about 1 minute on all sides until it’s well browned. This step adds a beautiful crust and depth of flavor.
  • Transfer the roulade to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover it first with parchment paper and then with aluminum foil to keep it moist during baking. Bake for 1½ hours.
  • After 1½ hours, uncover the roulade and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. This final step crisps up the outside.
  • Once cooked, let the roulade rest for about 10 minutes. Remove the twine, slice into portions, and serve with mashed or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze the roulade before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
  • Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness complements the rich flavors of the roulade.
  • Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add roasted peppers for a twist on the traditional filling.
  • Tip 5: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C/165°F.
Keyword chicken roulade, easy chicken dinner, Greek chicken recipe, Mediterranean cuisine

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