Greek-Style Chicken Roulade

Greek-Style Chicken Roulade is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. With tender, juicy chicken wrapped around a flavorful filling of spinach, herbs, and feta cheese, this roulade is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a special dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delicious dish!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Greek-Style Chicken Roulade stands out for its use of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs, which give it an authentic taste of Greece. The combination of spinach, dill, mint, and parsley creates a vibrant filling that complements the chicken beautifully. Additionally, the feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element that elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness. The roulade technique allows for an impressive presentation, making it a showstopper for any occasion.

What We’re Using

To prepare this delectable Greek-Style Chicken Roulade, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cleaned and deboned
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 400g spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp dill, finely chopped
• 2 tsp mint, finely chopped
• 2 tsp parsley, finely chopped
• Fresh green onion, finely chopped
• 100g feta cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil

Must-Have Equipment

Before we get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Sharp knife – for deboning the chicken and chopping vegetables.
• Cutting board – for preparing your ingredients.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the filling ingredients.
• Oven-safe baking dish – to cook the roulade in the oven.
• Kitchen twine – for tying the roulade securely.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – to pound the chicken evenly.

Greek-Style Chicken Roulade, Made Easy

With your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started on making this mouthwatering Greek-Style Chicken Roulade.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing the cleaned and deboned chicken on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, carefully pound the chicken to an even thickness. This will help it cook uniformly and make it easier to roll.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, washed and chopped spinach, dill, mint, parsley, and fresh green onion. Crumble the feta cheese into the mixture, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Roulade

Lay the pounded chicken flat on the cutting board, skin side down. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the chicken, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the chicken tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling stays inside.

Step 4: Secure the Roulade

Using kitchen twine, tie the roulade at several intervals to keep it secure during cooking. This step is important to maintain the shape of the roulade and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Sear the Roulade

In an oven-safe baking dish, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the roulade and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.

Step 6: Bake in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the roulade is seared, transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the roulade from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite. After resting, carefully slice the roulade into thick rounds.

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize the filling according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different green.
• Use different cheeses such as goat cheese or ricotta for a unique flavor.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for additional Mediterranean flair.
• Incorporate nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Ensure the chicken is evenly pounded to avoid overcooking some parts while others remain undercooked.
• Experiment with different herbs based on your personal preference; fresh herbs can make a significant difference in flavor.
• Always taste your filling before rolling; adjust seasoning as necessary to suit your taste.
• This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Greek-Style Chicken Roulade makes fantastic leftovers! Store any remaining slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy the roulade cold, slice it for salads, or reheat it gently in the oven to maintain its juicy texture. This dish also freezes well; just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Greek-Style Chicken Roulade FAQs

Can I make the roulade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roulade up to the baking stage, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

What can I serve with Greek-Style Chicken Roulade?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of couscous or quinoa. You can also serve it with tzatziki sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure it’s cooked through without drying it out.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use deboned chicken breasts for a quicker preparation. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness and adjust the cooking time as needed, as they may cook faster than a whole roulade.

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Final Bite

Greek-Style Chicken Roulade is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant greens, and tangy feta creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish is bound to bring smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor the taste of the Mediterranean!