Chef Mitchell preparing Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls while traveling through the Mediterranean. The combination of fresh ingredients and flavors captivated me. After trying several variations, I've perfected this recipe to bring the authentic taste to my kitchen. It's now a favorite in my household."

I have a deep passion for Mediterranean cuisine, having studied it for years. My expertise lies in creating healthy and delicious dinner recipes that showcase the region's flavors. I love sharing these recipes with others to inspire home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls served on a plate

Why This Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender chicken and fresh spinach wrapped in a flaky pastry creates a delightful experience in every bite. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course.

The technique of using puff pastry ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the filling moist. The addition of various cheeses enriches the flavor profile, making these rolls a crowd-pleaser. You can also customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra crispy texture, ensure the pastry is cold before baking. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, these rolls can be prepared in advance. Assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, and you can simply pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve.

If you're looking for a substitute for ricotta cheese, cottage cheese works well. You could also use cream cheese for a richer texture or even a vegan alternative like cashew cheese for a dairy-free option.

The rolls are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. You can also check that the filling is hot and the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).

Absolutely! These rolls can be frozen before baking. Just assemble and place them in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

These rolls pair wonderfully with a side salad or a yogurt-based dipping sauce. You can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa for a complete meal.

Stored in an airtight container, these rolls can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll them in advance. Store the prepared rolls in the fridge until you're ready to bake them. This makes for a convenient option for gatherings.

The best way to reheat these rolls is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the pastry is crispy again.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your rolls come out too dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: Make sure to monitor the cooking time closely. Additionally, adding a bit more cheese or a drizzle of olive oil to the filling can help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the rolls are not crispy, the pastry may have been too warm before baking.

Solution: Chill the pastry in the refrigerator before assembling the rolls and ensure your oven is preheated appropriately.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the rolls are overcooked, they may be hard and burnt.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, set a timer and check the rolls a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the rolls are too thick or packed too tightly.

Recovery: Make sure to spread the filling evenly and not overfill the pastry. If necessary, extend the baking time by a few minutes.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt exterior may result from an overly hot oven.

Prevention: Check your oven's temperature with an oven thermometer and adjust the heat as necessary. You can also cover the rolls with foil if they brown too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the rolls are too sweet, consider reducing any sweet ingredients like sauces or sugars in the filling.

Too Salty: If too salty, dilute the flavor by pairing it with a side dish that has no salt.

Bland: For bland rolls, increase seasoning in your filling or add a spicy dipping sauce to enhance flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls

Essential Ingredients for Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls

Key ingredients include fresh chicken, vibrant spinach, and a blend of cheeses that contribute to the savory filling. Puff pastry serves as the perfect vessel, creating a flaky exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist filling.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best flavor. Fresh, organic spinach and high-quality cheese can elevate the dish significantly, ensuring each bite is delicious. Opt for free-range chicken for a more wholesome option.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose chicken breasts for a lean option, or thighs for more flavor and moisture. Ensure the chicken is fresh and properly seasoned for the best results.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but you can use frozen spinach if pressed for time. Just ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
  • Puff Pastry: Keep puff pastry cold until you're ready to use it. This ensures it maintains its flaky texture while baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator, but do not let it get too warm.
Cooking process for Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process involves straightforward steps that make this recipe approachable. From preparing the filling to assembling and baking the rolls, each stage is simple and manageable for cooks of any skill level.

To achieve perfect results, pay attention to the cooking times and temperatures. This will ensure your rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls

The most important technique for perfect Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls is ensuring the pastry is kept cold. This allows it to puff up beautifully while baking. Additionally, properly seasoning the filling enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.

Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup milk
    Warm
  • 1 tbsp flour
    For thickening
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
    Chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
    Shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
    Beaten
  • 4 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 package puff pastry sheets

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

    In a large bowl, mix the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic, onion powder, black pepper, salt, oregano, and paprika.

  2. Cook the Chicken

    Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

  3. Combine Chicken and Spinach Mixture

    Once the chicken is cooked, chop it into small pieces and add it to the spinach and cheese mixture. Stir in breadcrumbs.

  4. Prepare the Puff Pastry

    Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface. Cut the pastry into squares large enough to hold a generous portion of the filling.

  5. Fill the Pastry

    Place a spoonful of the chicken and spinach filling in the center of each puff pastry square. Fold the pastry over to create rolls and seal the edges with a fork.

  6. Bake the Rolls

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

  7. Cooking Time

    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown.

  8. Serve

    Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of yogurt or dipping sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Savory Chicken Spinach Rolls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls before baking and reheat when needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls with a side of tzatziki sauce, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. They also pair well with a nice glass of white wine, making for a delightful dinner.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses or use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option.