Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and visually appealing appetizer perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a special treat for family dinners. These golden, flaky pinwheels combine tender shredded chicken with cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh herbs like parsley and chives, all encased in buttery puff pastry. The result is a savory, bite-sized treat that’s easy to make yet impressive on any appetizer table.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to make these delicious pinwheels, including step-by-step instructions, tips for a perfect bake, variations to try, and pairing suggestions. Let’s dive into how to make this versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that will become a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels

1. Delightful Flavor Combination

The creamy filling, made with shredded chicken, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, provides a flavorful, well-seasoned bite in each pinwheel. The sharpness of Parmesan balances the smoothness of cream cheese, while fresh parsley and chives add brightness and depth to each bite.

2. Impressive Yet Easy to Prepare

Using store-bought puff pastry simplifies this recipe without compromising on quality. With a few simple steps, you can create a visually impressive appetizer that looks elegant on a platter and is quick to assemble.

3. Perfect for Entertaining

These bite-sized pinwheels are easy to serve and share, making them ideal for parties, brunches, holiday gatherings, and family get-togethers. Their flaky, golden appearance and savory filling make them a guaranteed hit with guests.

4. Endlessly Customizable

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your tastes or customize the filling to match your event’s theme or season.

Ingredients for Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Here’s what you’ll need to make 20 delicious pinwheels:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: The base for these pinwheels, puff pastry bakes up light and flaky, adding a buttery layer that complements the filling.
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely shredded: The main protein in the filling, chicken provides a tender and mild flavor that pairs well with the herbs and cheeses.
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds smoothness and helps bind the ingredients together, creating a creamy texture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a sharp, salty flavor that balances the richness of the cream cheese.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery note that enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped: Chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy filling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds depth and enhances the savory profile of the pinwheels.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: These seasonings bring balance to the flavors, allowing the herbs and cheeses to shine.
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Brushing the pinwheels with egg wash gives them a golden, shiny finish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

  1. Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well-combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
  2. Taste and adjust: Taste the filling and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add a bit more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if desired.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry sheet. Use a rolling pin to gently smooth out any creases, forming a large rectangle. This helps ensure an even layer when rolling the pinwheels.

Step 3: Spread the Filling and Roll

  1. Spread the filling: Using a spatula, evenly spread the chicken mixture across the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  2. Roll tightly: Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the puff pastry into a log, keeping it as tight as possible without squeezing out the filling. This rolling technique ensures even, spiraled layers in each pinwheel.
  3. Chill the roll: Place the roll in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This step helps firm up the pastry and filling, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Step 4: Slice and Bake

  1. Slice into pinwheels: Remove the roll from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to slice it into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Place each pinwheel, cut-side down, on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for even baking.
  2. Brush with egg wash: Use a pastry brush to apply the beaten egg over the tops of each pinwheel, giving them a golden finish.
  3. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Cool and enjoy: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack. They’re delicious on their own or paired with a light dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels

1. Keep the Puff Pastry Cold

Puff pastry works best when it’s cold, as the butter layers create steam that puffs the dough as it bakes. If the pastry starts to feel sticky or soft while preparing, place it in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing.

2. Chill Before Slicing

Chilling the rolled pastry before slicing helps prevent the filling from smearing or spilling out, ensuring clean, even cuts. This step is especially helpful when working with softer fillings like cream cheese mixtures.

3. Experiment with Different Herbs

Feel free to add or substitute herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Rosemary, thyme, or even a bit of dill can bring unique flavors to the pinwheels.

4. Serve Fresh for Best Results

These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, as the puff pastry is at its flakiest and most tender when warm. However, they can also be served at room temperature if made in advance.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 pinwheel):

  • Calories: 85
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 100mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations of Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels

These pinwheels offer a versatile base for experimenting with flavors. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Chop a few sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the filling for a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the creamy cheeses. This addition adds depth and Mediterranean flair.

2. Swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Mozzarella

Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors. Gruyère offers a nutty richness, while mozzarella brings a milder taste and gooey texture when melted.

3. Make it Spicy

For a bit of heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This creates a spicy contrast to the creamy, savory filling.

4. Incorporate Pesto for Extra Flavor

Add a thin layer of basil pesto to the puff pastry before spreading the chicken mixture. The pesto enhances the herbed flavor and adds an extra layer of richness.

5. Try Smoked Chicken for Added Depth

Using smoked chicken instead of regular cooked chicken introduces a smoky element to the filling, giving the pinwheels a slightly deeper, more robust flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

These herbed chicken puff pastry pinwheels are versatile and pair well with a variety of foods and beverages:

  • Serve with a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced, refreshing accompaniment that complements the savory pastry.
  • Include in a Charcuterie Board: These pinwheels make a wonderful addition to a charcuterie or cheese board, alongside olives, cured meats, and fresh fruit.
  • Pair with White Wine: A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the light, fresh flavors in the pinwheels. A rosé would also pair beautifully.
  • Offer a Dipping Sauce: Serve with a simple garlic aioli, marinara, or even a creamy herb dip for added flavor and texture.

Herbed Chicken Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a savory, flaky treat that’s both easy to make and sophisticated in flavor. Combining creamy, herbed chicken filling with buttery puff pastry, these pinwheels are perfect for entertaining or adding a special touch to any meal. Whether served fresh from the oven or at room temperature, they offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that are sure to impress.

This versatile recipe invites creativity, allowing you to experiment with flavors and fillings to suit any occasion. Enjoy the process of making these elegant, crowd-pleasing pinwheels, and watch them become a favorite at your table!