Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further than Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels! These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even as a tasty snack. Packed with flavors from tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and creamy cheese, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this delightful recipe and provide tips for making it perfect every time.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 large flour tortillas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling:
  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped dried cranberries, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, green onions, and celery.
  • Add salt and black pepper to the mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
  1. Spread the Filling:
  • Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface.
  • Evenly spread the chicken and cranberry mixture over each tortilla, ensuring an even layer across the entire surface.
  1. Roll and Chill:
  • Carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
  • Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This will help the pinwheels set and make them easier to slice.
  1. Slice and Serve:
  • Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and slice the tortillas into 1-inch pinwheels.
  • Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and garnish with additional green onions or cranberries if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken and high-quality dried cranberries.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the rolled tortillas is crucial for easy slicing and to ensure the pinwheels hold their shape.
  • Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients such as chopped nuts, fresh herbs, or different cheeses.
  • Make Ahead: Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels can be made a day in advance, making them a convenient option for parties and gatherings.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are a delightful and versatile appetizer that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of cranberries and the creaminess of cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these pinwheels are sure to please. Follow our simple recipe and tips for success, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

Serving Tips

  1. Presentation Matters:
  • Arrange the pinwheels on a decorative platter for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to add a pop of color.
  1. Accompaniments:
  • Serve the pinwheels with a dipping sauce like honey mustard, ranch, or a cranberry sauce for an extra flavor boost.
  • Pair them with other appetizers like fresh veggies, cheese platters, or crackers for a well-rounded spread.
  1. Serving Temperature:
  • Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are best served cold or at room temperature. Ensure they are kept in the refrigerator until just before serving.
  1. Portion Control:
  • For a larger crowd, consider making multiple batches to ensure there are enough for everyone. Plan for about 3-4 pinwheels per person.

Storage Tips

  1. Refrigeration:
  • Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
  1. Avoid Sogginess:
  • To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, store the pinwheels in a single layer, or place parchment paper between layers if stacking is necessary.
  1. Rewrapping:
  • If you need to prepare the pinwheels ahead of time, wrap the uncut rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap before chilling. This helps maintain their shape and freshness.
  1. Freezing:
  • While it’s not recommended to freeze Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels due to the cream cheese filling, you can freeze the tortilla rolls before slicing if necessary. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
  1. Recrisping:
  • If the tortillas become a bit soft, you can lay the slices out on a baking sheet and place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes to slightly crisp them up before serving.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels remain fresh and delicious, making them a perfect addition to any event or meal. Enjoy!

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. The flavorful and tender rotisserie chicken will add an extra dimension to your pinwheels.

2. Can I make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are perfect for preparing in advance. You can make the filling and assemble the pinwheels up to a day before your event. Store the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, until you’re ready to slice and serve them.

3. What can I substitute for dried cranberries?

If you don’t have dried cranberries or prefer a different flavor, you can use dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped fresh apples for a similar sweet-tart taste. Just ensure the substitute is chopped into small pieces to blend well with the other ingredients.

4. How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to thoroughly mix and evenly distribute the filling ingredients. Chilling the rolled tortillas for at least an hour before slicing helps them hold their shape and prevents excess moisture from making the tortillas soggy. Additionally, storing the pinwheels in a single layer in an airtight container helps maintain their texture.

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