Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

These Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and sweet—all wrapped up in a soft tortilla for the ultimate appetizer or lunchbox snack. With tender shredded chicken, tangy dried cranberries, and a creamy herbed filling, these little rolls are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Ideal for holidays, parties, or meal prep, they come together in minutes and are always a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – No cooking required if you use pre-cooked chicken.
Flavor-Packed – A delicious balance of sweet cranberries, savory chicken, and creamy cheese.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping the night before.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as appetizers, party bites, or light lunches.
Kid-Approved – Fun, bite-sized, and full of familiar flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pinwheel Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or grilled works well)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
• ½ cup green onions, finely chopped
• ¼ cup chopped celery (for crunch, optional)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley
• 1 tsp lemon juice (brightens the flavor)

For Assembly:

• 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
• Baby spinach or lettuce leaves (optional for layering)
• Plastic wrap (for rolling and chilling)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula or spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Serrated knife for slicing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Creamy Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise (or yogurt).
2. Stir until smooth and creamy using a spatula or spoon.
3. Add in shredded chicken, cranberries, green onions, celery (if using), garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and lemon juice.
4. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

1. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread about ½ cup of the filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
3. Add a few spinach or lettuce leaves if desired, pressing them into the filling.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly from one end to the other, like a jelly roll.
5. Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap to help it hold its shape.
6. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Chill for Best Results

1. Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
2. Chilling makes them easier to slice and enhances flavor.

Step 4: Slice & Serve

1. Unwrap the chilled rolls and place on a cutting board.
2. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into 1-inch pieces.
3. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
Don’t Overfill – Keep the layer thin and even to make rolling easier.
Roll Tightly – A snug roll prevents the pinwheels from falling apart.
Chill Time – Don’t skip chilling; it makes slicing clean and neat.
Use Room Temp Cream Cheese – It spreads more smoothly and blends easily.
Customize It – Add nuts (like pecans or almonds), swap herbs, or use flavored tortillas.

Serving Suggestions
Holiday Appetizers – Festive, flavorful, and easy to grab.
Lunchbox Ready – Great for school or work meals.
Party Platters – Pair with veggie sticks, dips, and fresh fruit.
Picnics or Potlucks – Travels well and requires no reheating.
Brunch Buffets – A savory-sweet option alongside quiches or muffins.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storing:

• Fridge: Store sliced or whole rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep chilled until serving to maintain texture and freshness.

Make Ahead:

• Roll and wrap the night before, then slice the next day.
• You can prep the filling up to 2 days ahead and assemble when ready.

Reheating:

• Not recommended; best served chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned chicken?
   Yes, just drain it well and shred it before mixing.
2. What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
   Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream works great for a lighter option.
3. Are these freezer-friendly?
   Not really. The cream cheese filling may separate when thawed, affecting texture.
4. Can I use a different protein?
   Absolutely! Try turkey, tuna, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
5. What kind of tortilla works best?
   Flour tortillas are best because they’re soft and easy to roll. Spinach or tomato wraps also work well.

Final Thoughts
Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or need a fast, no-fuss lunch, they’re flavorful, portable, and incredibly satisfying. The contrast of creamy, tangy, and sweet in each bite makes them truly irresistible.

Give them a try and see why they’re such a hit. Don’t forget to leave a review and share your creations—your next party favorite might just be these delightful little spirals!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Pinwheels):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 330mg

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