Summer is grilling season, and what better way to celebrate than with these flavorful rolled chicken tenders on skewers, served with a creamy, tangy feta dip? This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even a sophisticated appetizer. It's easy to customize to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this delightful and surprisingly simple dish!
What are Rolled Chicken Tenders?
Rolled chicken tenders are essentially chicken breast tenders that have been pounded thin, filled with flavorful ingredients, rolled up tightly, and then secured, often with toothpicks or skewers. This technique creates a juicy, flavorful chicken bite that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. The possibilities for fillings are endless, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your liking.
Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
For the Feta Dip:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken: Place each chicken tender between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the flattened chicken tenders.
- Assemble the rolls: Place a spoonful of sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese on one end of each chicken tender. Roll tightly and secure with a skewer.
Making the Feta Dip:
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor or bowl (if using a bowl, use an immersion blender), combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried dill.
- Blend/mix: Process until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using a bowl and immersion blender, blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
Grilling/Baking/Pan-Frying the Chicken:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken skewers on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, then reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serving: Serve the rolled chicken tenders on skewers immediately with the feta dip. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken skewers ahead of time. Assemble them, cover them, and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. This makes them perfect for entertaining.
What other fillings can I use?
The possibilities are endless! Try spinach and artichoke, pesto and mozzarella, or even bacon and jalapeños. Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors.
Can I use different types of cheese in the feta dip?
While feta is classic, you can experiment with other creamy cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
How long can I store the leftover feta dip?
Store leftover feta dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Are these skewers suitable for kids?
Yes, these are kid-friendly, but ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. You can also adjust the fillings to suit your children's preferences. Removing the skewers before serving young children is also a good safety precaution.
This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a delightful and memorable meal. Enjoy!
