Name: Greek-Style Chicken Roulade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
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); 1 Fresh green onion (finely chopped); 100 g feta cheese (crumbled); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); Olive oil (for cooking)

When it comes to showcasing vibrant Mediterranean flavors, nothing beats a Greek-Style Chicken Roulade. This dish combines tender chicken with a delightful filling of fresh herbs, feta cheese, and spinach, offering a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this roulade is sure to impress. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a standout on any dining table.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Greek-Style Chicken Roulade is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The flavors are fresh and bright, thanks to the combination of herbs and feta, while the chicken remains juicy and tender. It’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it looks stunning when sliced, making it perfect for dinner parties. The best part? You can easily adjust the filling ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

What We’re Using

To create this vibrant and tasty Greek-Style Chicken Roulade, you’ll 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, crumbled
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make the preparation of your Greek-Style Chicken Roulade as smooth as possible, gather the following tools:

Chef’s knife: For chopping herbs and vegetables.
Cutting board: To provide a clean surface for prep work.
Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
Cooking twine: To tie up the chicken roulade.
Baking dish: To bake the roulade in the oven.
Meat mallet: To help flatten the chicken if necessary.

How to Prepare Greek-Style Chicken Roulade

Creating your own Greek-Style Chicken Roulade may sound daunting, but with these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a culinary masterpiece.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cleaning and deboning your whole chicken, ensuring it is as flat as possible. If needed, use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness. This will help it cook evenly and make it easier to roll.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the washed and roughly chopped spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and onion mixture with the finely chopped dill, mint, parsley, and fresh green onion. Crumble the feta cheese into the mixture and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Fill the Chicken

Lay the deboned chicken skin-side down on a clean surface. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the chicken, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help keep the filling from spilling out when you roll it up.

Step 5: Roll the Roulade

Starting from one end, carefully roll the chicken up tightly. Use the cooking twine to tie the roulade securely at several intervals, ensuring the filling stays inside while it cooks.

Step 6: Bake the Roulade

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the roulade in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil, seasoning the outside with salt and pepper. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Once baked, remove the roulade from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful chicken. When ready, slice into rounds and serve.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients in your Greek-Style Chicken Roulade. Here are some seasonal swaps you might consider:

Spring: Add asparagus or peas for a fresh, crisp bite.
Summer: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
Fall: Incorporate pumpkin or squash puree into the filling for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.

Cook’s Commentary

The beauty of this Greek-Style Chicken Roulade is its adaptability. You can play with the herbs based on what you have available or even experiment with different types of cheeses. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick. This dish is also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge.

Another tip is to marinate the chicken for a few hours before assembling. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a sprinkle of oregano can elevate the flavors even more, creating a juicy and aromatic roulade.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is often the case because this dish is so filling), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Allow the roulade to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Slice the roulade before freezing for easier reheating later.

To reheat, simply place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, but be careful not to overheat as this can make the chicken tough.

FAQ

Can I make this Greek-Style Chicken Roulade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roulade up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking.

What can I serve with the Greek-Style Chicken Roulade?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of Chicken And Orzo. You can also serve it with a refreshing tzatziki sauce for a cooling contrast.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While feta is traditional, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier filling. Just be mindful of the flavor profiles and how they blend with the herbs.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Greek-Style Chicken Roulade is naturally gluten-free as it uses no bread or flour. Just ensure that any additional sauces or sides you serve with it also meet your dietary needs.

If you enjoyed making this Greek-Style Chicken Roulade, you might want to explore these delicious weekend projects:

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge to create your own Greek-Style Chicken Roulade, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process. The wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen will be worth every minute spent preparing this delightful dish. Each slice reveals the beautiful filling, and the first bite will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Enjoy your culinary adventure!