Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

If you’re looking for a tasty treat that’s perfect for any occasion, let me introduce you to Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels! These delightful roll-ups are not only creamy and delicious, but they also pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want something quick and satisfying for lunch, these pinwheels are sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes this recipe special is its ability to combine simple ingredients into a fun and visually appealing dish. They’re great for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at brunch. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll find yourself making excuses to whip up a batch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few quick steps, you can have these tasty pinwheels ready in no time!
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy filling and fun presentation.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and chill until you’re ready to serve—perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of chicken, cranberries, and feta creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even a light lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 2/3 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and pepper

For the Wrap

• 4 large flour tortillas

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is how flexible they are! Feel free to make them your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Substitute shredded chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese flavored with herbs for added zest.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some spinach or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Use different wraps: Experiment with spinach or whole wheat tortillas for added flavor and color.

How to Make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, grab a wooden spoon and stir together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This base is essential because it creates the creamy texture that holds all the flavors together.

Step 2: Mix in the Goodness

Now it’s time to add in the shredded chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Stir everything well until it’s evenly combined. This step is crucial as each ingredient contributes its unique taste, making your pinwheels truly special.

Step 3: Season It Up

Don’t forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper! Give it a taste—this is your chance to adjust flavors before rolling them up. The right seasoning will enhance all those delicious ingredients.

Step 4: Warm Up Your Tortillas

Place your flour tortillas on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel and microwave on HIGH for about 20 seconds. Warming up the tortillas makes them more pliable so they won’t crack when you roll them.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pinwheels

Spread 1/4 of the creamy mixture onto each tortilla evenly. Roll them up tightly from one end to the other and wrap each roll in plastic wrap. This helps keep their shape while they chill in the fridge.

Step 6: Chill & Slice

Refrigerate your wrapped pinwheels for at least an hour before slicing. Once chilled, slice each roll into 1-inch pieces. This makes them easy to serve as bite-sized treats that everyone will love!

And there you have it—your very own Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are ready to impress! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Creating the perfect Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out delicious every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with cream cheese that’s softened to room temperature helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients, ensuring a creamy filling without lumps.
• Chill Before Slicing: After rolling up the tortillas, refrigerating them for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes slicing easier without squishing the filling out.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add your own twist by incorporating ingredients like spinach or bell peppers. This not only enhances flavor but also adds extra nutrition!
• Choose Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the taste profile of your pinwheels and give them a fresh burst of color.
• Wrap Tightly: When rolling your tortillas, make sure to roll them tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during slicing. A tight roll ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

How to Serve Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are as versatile as they are delicious! Presenting them well can make all the difference in impressing your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your pinwheels.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on each plate creates a beautiful presentation and enhances the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly as a refreshing counterpart to these rich pinwheels.
• Vegetable Platter: Serve with an assortment of colorful veggies like carrots, cucumber slices, and bell peppers along with hummus for dipping—this adds crunch and nutrition.
• Potato Chips: Crispy potato chips add a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the pinwheels.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers featuring grapes, melon, and strawberries provide a sweet balance that complements the savory flavors of the pinwheels.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For best results, consume within the first day or two after preparation.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• These pinwheels are best served cold but can be reheated if desired.
• To reheat, unwrap and microwave for about 15-20 seconds on low power until they are just warmed through.
• Avoid overheating as it may change the texture of the cream cheese filling.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you with your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels!

Can I make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these pinwheels up to a day in advance. Just keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of cream cheese. Both alternatives will provide a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Are Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels suitable for parties?

Yes! These pinwheels make a fantastic appetizer for parties and gatherings. Their bite-sized portions make them easy for guests to enjoy while mingling.

How do I add more flavor to my Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro also work wonderfully!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Certainly! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or sliced almonds, depending on your preference. Just ensure any nuts used are toasted for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels as much as I do! They’re not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these pinwheels will surely impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends!