CHICKEN CRANBERRY PINWHEELS

Introduction

Welcome to our culinary haven! Today, we’re diving into a delightful and crowd-pleasing recipe: Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels. These savory and slightly sweet wraps are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, a festive appetizer, or a delightful party snack. Packed with flavors and textures, these pinwheels are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Let’s get rolling!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal. They’re perfect for busy individuals, families, and even those who love hosting gatherings. The combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy ingredients makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, these pinwheels are highly versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious pinwheels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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
• 4 large flour tortillas

Directions

Prepare the filling:

1. In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth.

Mix in the ingredients: 2. Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Warm the tortillas: 3. Place the flour tortillas on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on HIGH for 20 seconds.

Assemble the wraps: 4. Spread 1/4 of the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla. Roll them up tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Slice and serve: 5. Slice each roll into 1-inch slices and serve.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Microwave-safe plate
• Damp paper towel
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife

Storage Tips

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. When ready to serve, you can enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes.

Tips and Variations

1. Swap the Protein:

• You can substitute the shredded chicken with turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian option like chickpeas or tofu for a different twist.

2. Add Some Greens:

• For an extra burst of freshness, add a handful of baby spinach or arugula to the filling mixture.

3. Spice it Up:

• If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.

4. Gluten-Free Option:

• Use gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

5. Sweet and Savory:

• Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots or raisins if you prefer a variation in sweetness.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pairing Suggestions:

• These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
• For a refreshing drink, try serving them with iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQ

Q: Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

• A: Absolutely! These pinwheels are perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare them as directed, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and serving.

Q: Can I freeze the pinwheels?

• A: While it’s best to enjoy these pinwheels fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

• A: Yes, feel free to substitute feta cheese with goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile.

 

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