I can still remember the first time I made these Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was craving something comforting yet a little different from the usual weeknight dinners. As I started prepping the ingredients, the aroma of roasted pecans and tangy cranberries filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy countryside farmhouse. The creamy, savory chicken filling wrapped in buttery pastry dough – it just sounded like the perfect way to welcome the new season. And oh, let me tell you, these Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels did not disappoint! They turned out absolutely heavenly, with each bite bursting with flavor. I couldn’t wait to share them with my family, and needless to say, the 24 pinwheels didn’t last long at all. This recipe has since become a cherished favorite, one that I make again and again whenever I need a taste of autumn comfort.
Table of Contents
Why This Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
What makes this Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, savory chicken filling is elevated by the tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry dough. And the best part? This recipe yields 24 pinwheels, so you’ll have plenty to share (or not, no judgment here!).
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delectable Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels, you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Step-by-Step Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels Instructions
Preparing Your Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
This recipe takes 30 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a rolling pin, a baking sheet, and a sharp knife to make these Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels.
1- In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of finely chopped pecans, and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries.
2- In a separate bowl, mix together the 1 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well blended.
3- Unroll the 1 sheet of thawed frozen puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4- Carefully roll up the pastry, starting from the short side, to form a tight log. Slice the log into 24 equal pinwheels, using a sharp knife.
5- Place the 24 pinwheels, cut-side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6- Bake the Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels at 400°F for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels, be sure to use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, creamy filling. Chop the pecans finely to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the pinwheels. And when rolling up the pastry, go slowly and gently to keep the pinwheels tidy and uniform. Avoid overfilling the pinwheels, as this can cause the pastry to split.
Serving and Storing Your Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
These Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer or side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of fall-inspired meals. Serve them alongside a hearty soup, a crisp salad, or roasted root vegetables for a cozy and complete autumn feast. They also make a wonderful accompaniment to a Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving spread. And don’t forget the drinks – a warm apple cider or a full-bodied red wine would be the perfect complement to these pinwheels. Remember, this recipe yields 24 pinwheels, so you’ll have plenty to share with your guests.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the pinwheels and freeze them uncooked. When ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
Creative Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels Variations
While the classic combination of creamy chicken, cranberries, and pecans is hard to beat, you can get creative with this recipe. Try swapping the pecans for walnuts or almonds, or use a mix of different nuts. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as shredded cheddar or crumbled feta. For a touch of sweetness, fold in a tablespoon or two of honey or maple syrup. And for a seasonal twist, try adding a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to the filling.
Making Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels Diet-Friendly
To make these Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels more diet-friendly, you can use a reduced-fat cream cheese and opt for a whole-wheat or gluten-free puff pastry. For a low-carb version, skip the pastry and serve the creamy chicken filling in lettuce cups or on top of a leafy green salad. Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy a plant-based version by using sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils in place of the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Cooked and shredded or diced chicken works perfectly in this Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels recipe.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 24 pinwheels, with each serving being 1 pinwheel.
Q: Can I make the pinwheels ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels and freeze them unbaked. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: My pinwheels are coming apart when I slice them. What can I do?
A: Make sure to roll the pastry dough tightly and evenly before slicing. You can also try chilling the log of dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing to help the pinwheels hold their shape better.
Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 24 pinwheels
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. Made with tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, these pinwheels are quick and easy to prepare, yet deliver restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. 3. Unfold the puff pastry sheet and roll it out into a 12×9 inch rectangle.
4. 4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. 5. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the puff pastry.
6. 6. Slice the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
7. 7. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
9. 9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. For a creamier filling, you can add an extra 2-3 ounces of cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels are a true taste of autumn bliss, and I can’t wait for you to try them. With their irresistible flavors and easy-to-make assembly, they’re sure to become a new family favorite. So go ahead, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy 24 delectable pinwheels that will have everyone coming back for more. Don’t forget to let me know how your Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Pinwheels turn out – I’d love to hear all about it!
