Would You Savor These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels? A Delightful Appetizer for Any Occasion

Embark on a culinary journey with our delectable Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels, the perfect blend of savory chicken and sweet cranberries wrapped in flaky pastry. This irresistible appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, offering a taste experience that’s visually appealing and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels recipe is a standout for its unique combination of flavors. The tender chicken complements the tangy sweetness of cranberries, creating an addictive bite-sized treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these pinwheels are perfect for all occasions. Plus, they are simple to prepare yet look impressively intricate.

These pinwheels shine during the holiday season, adding a festive touch to your table with their vibrant cranberry hues and inviting aroma. They’re also an excellent choice for potlucks or casual get-togethers, where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Context/Background

Pinwheels are a versatile dish that dates back to times when travel foods needed to be portable and non-messy. Over the years, they have evolved from simple bread rolls to more elaborately presented appetizers. The combination of Cranberry and Chicken in a pinwheel form marries traditional flavors with a new-age presentation, inspired by holiday roasts and classic American salads.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8-10

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface. Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the pastry.
4. Roll the pastry tightly from one end to the other. Cut into 1-inch slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Repeat the process with the second sheet of puff pastry and remaining chicken mixture.
6. Brush pinwheels lightly with the beaten egg.
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Chill the rolled pastry before slicing to achieve cleaner cuts.
• For a slight heat kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the mixture.
• Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels warm with a side of honey mustard or cranberry sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or as a part of a larger appetizer spread for any social gathering.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are a delightful addition to any recipe repertoire, combining ease of preparation with extraordinary taste. Ideal for entertaining, they will have your guests asking for the recipe. There’s little doubt that these pinwheels will become a favorite go-to appetizer for any occasion!

Recipe Notes

• Feel free to substitute turkey for chicken, especially around the holidays.
• For a vegetarian variant, replace the chicken with spinach and crumbled feta cheese.
• Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for added fragrance and flavor.