Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that is both simple and crowd-pleasing, you’ll love these Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels! They are perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even brunch with friends. With their creamy filling and delicious mix of flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your home just like they are in mine.

What makes these Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels truly special is how versatile they are. You can whip them up in no time, and they’re easy to make ahead of time. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for all your entertaining needs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious appetizer ready to go!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious combination of chicken and cranberries.
• Make-ahead convenience: These pinwheels can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for easy snacking.
• Flavor-packed: The mix of cream cheese, chicken, and cranberries creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels use simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this tasty treat!

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 to taste

For the Wrap

• 4 large flour tortillas

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for extra nutrition.
• Change up the nuts: Try walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like things spicy!

How to Make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Filling

In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This mixture forms the creamy base that binds everything together. It’s important to achieve a nice consistency so every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Combine Your Ingredients

Next, stir in the shredded chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture to the pinwheels. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; this enhances all those wonderful flavors!

Step 3: Prepare the 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 them makes them more pliable for rolling. This little step ensures your pinwheels won’t crack when you roll them up.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pinwheels

Spread one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture onto each tortilla evenly. Roll them up tightly from one end to the other. Wrapping them securely is key; it helps keep everything inside while slicing later on.

Step 5: Chill Out!

Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes slicing easier when you’re ready to serve!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Finally, slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pieces. Arrange them on a platter and watch as your guests eagerly dive into these delicious Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels!

Now you’re all set to impress your family or friends with this fabulous dish! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Creating the perfect Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of creativity! Here are some tips to elevate your pinwheel game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly cooked chicken and high-quality cream cheese can make a world of difference in flavor. Opting for fresh ingredients ensures a tastier, more vibrant dish that everyone will love.

• Chill Before Serving: After rolling up your tortillas, refrigerate them for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier, resulting in neat-looking pinwheels.

• Experiment with Tortillas: While flour tortillas work great, don’t hesitate to try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added nutrition and color. Different tortillas can bring new flavors and visual appeal to your dish.

• Customize Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the filling! Adding ingredients like bell peppers or swapping pecans for walnuts can introduce exciting new textures and tastes that suit your preferences.

• Presentation Matters: Serve your pinwheels on a colorful platter or slate board and consider adding small toothpicks for easy serving. A beautiful presentation not only enhances the dining experience but also makes a great impression on guests!

How to Serve Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways that cater to any occasion. Whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant brunch, these pinwheels will shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds freshness and color, making your dish visually appealing.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dish of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side provides an extra burst of flavor when dipping.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of mixed greens with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the pinwheels while adding crunch and freshness.
• Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers with seasonal fruits like strawberries, grapes, and melon provide a sweet contrast to the savory pinwheels.
• Veggie Platter: Pairing your pinwheels with an assortment of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers encourages healthy snacking alongside this delicious appetizer.
• Chips and Salsa: For a more casual setting, serve with tortilla chips and salsa for an added crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are fantastic for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them a convenient option for busy days or unexpected guests. Here’s how to store them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep extra cream cheese mixture separate if you plan to eat leftovers later to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped pinwheels in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, allow pinwheels to come to room temperature before reheating.
• Use a microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds per slice until warmed through, but avoid overheating to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels:

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor, making this recipe even quicker and easier.

How do I make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels gluten-free?

To make these pinwheels gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas that you enjoy.

Can I customize the filling of Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients such as bell peppers, spinach, or different nuts for added texture and flavor.

How can I make the Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels spicier?

If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels as much as I do! They are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just looking for an easy lunch option, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!