Chicken Parm Pinwheels Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Parm Pinwheels are a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crescent roll dough. These savory pinwheels are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a fun, bite-sized form. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as a party dish. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. This guide will walk you through every step of preparing these tasty pinwheels, share tips for perfecting them, and offer creative variations to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parm Pinwheels

• Delicious Flavor Fusion: These pinwheels combine the savory flavors of Chicken Parmesan—chicken, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese—into a simple, hand-held form that’s perfect for sharing.
• Easy and Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up these pinwheels in no time. They’re perfect for busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without a lot of effort.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of Chicken Parmesan are always a hit with kids. These pinwheels are a fun, easy-to-eat way to introduce them to this beloved dish.
• Versatile: While they’re a great snack or appetizer, Chicken Parm Pinwheels can also be served as a complete meal. They can be customized to suit your tastes, whether you prefer extra cheese, more sauce, or added seasonings.
• Impressive Presentation: These pinwheels look as good as they taste. Their golden-brown exterior and cheesy interior make them an attractive addition to any meal or party platter.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12-15 pinwheels
• Calories per Serving: Around 200-250 calories per pinwheel, depending on the size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Fat: 12-14g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Parm Pinwheels:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough (or pizza dough)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

To begin, shred the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own chicken breasts. Place the shredded chicken in a mixing bowl.

Next, add the marinara sauce to the chicken and stir to combine. The marinara sauce will give the chicken a rich, tangy flavor, making it the perfect base for your pinwheels.

In a separate small bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. These seasonings will give the pinwheels that classic Chicken Parmesan flavor. Stir the cheese and seasonings into the chicken and marinara sauce mixture until everything is well combined. Set the filling aside while you prepare the dough.

2. Prepare the Dough

If you’re using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough onto a clean surface. Lay the dough out flat, pressing the seams together to create one large rectangle. If you’re using pizza dough, roll it out into a similar-sized rectangle.

Be sure that the dough is even and smooth, which will help ensure that the pinwheels bake evenly. If you’re using crescent roll dough, don’t separate the individual triangles—just treat it as one large sheet of dough.

3. Assemble the Pinwheels

Now it’s time to assemble the pinwheels! Evenly spread the chicken and cheese mixture over the dough, leaving about ½ inch of space on the edges. This ensures that the filling stays inside as you roll the dough. Spread the mixture to cover the entire surface of the dough.

Once the filling is evenly distributed, carefully roll the dough up into a log, starting from one edge. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible without squeezing out the filling. The tighter the roll, the more evenly the pinwheels will bake.

After rolling, slice the dough log into 12-15 equal-sized pinwheels. You can use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into neat, even slices. Each slice should be about 1 to 1 ½ inches wide.

4. Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps prevent the pinwheels from sticking and ensures even baking.

Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow them to expand slightly during baking.

To give the pinwheels a beautiful golden-brown finish, brush the tops with olive oil. This will also help enhance the flavor and create a crispy, buttery crust.

5. Bake the Pinwheels

Bake the Chicken Parm Pinwheels in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the dough and the size of your pinwheels, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

If you’re using crescent roll dough, you should see the pinwheels puff up and become golden and flaky. If you’re using pizza dough, the pinwheels will become a bit more rustic, with a thicker, chewier texture.

6. Cool and Serve

Once the pinwheels are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This gives the cheese time to set and prevents burns from the hot cheese.

You can serve these pinwheels as-is or garnish them with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parm Pinwheels

• Shred the Chicken Well: Shredding the chicken into small, even pieces ensures that each bite of pinwheel has a good balance of chicken and cheese.
• Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy meal, store-bought rotisserie chicken works great. It’s already cooked, saving you time and effort.
• Don’t Overfill the Dough: Be sure not to overfill the dough with the chicken mixture. Overstuffing can cause the pinwheels to burst open during baking, creating a mess and uneven results.
• Adjust the Seasoning: The beauty of these pinwheels is their versatility. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer more garlic flavor, add a bit more garlic powder. You can also add red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
• Use Fresh Dough for Flakier Results: If possible, use fresh pizza dough or crescent roll dough, as they tend to create a flakier, puffier crust compared to refrigerated dough that has been sitting too long.
• Make Them Ahead of Time: These pinwheels can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap to keep the dough from drying out.

Variations of Chicken Parm Pinwheels

• Buffalo Chicken Parm Pinwheels: For a spicy twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce to the chicken and marinara mixture. This variation pairs well with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Chicken Alfredo Pinwheels: Swap out the marinara sauce for a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Add some fresh spinach or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
• Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Parm Pinwheels: Add ½ cup of chopped spinach and ¼ cup of chopped artichoke hearts to the chicken and cheese mixture. This variation brings the flavors of a classic spinach and artichoke dip to the pinwheels.
• Vegetarian Parm Pinwheels: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a vegetarian-friendly option. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Parm Pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can be stored for later enjoyment. After they cool to room temperature, place the pinwheels in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, freeze the pinwheels after baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen pinwheels to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen pinwheels can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Parm Pinwheels

These pinwheels are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons is the perfect complement to these savory pinwheels.
• Garlic Bread: Serve these pinwheels with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, provide a colorful, healthy addition to the meal.
• Pasta: For a hearty, Italian-style dinner, serve the pinwheels with a side of pasta. Spaghetti or penne with marinara sauce is always a great choice.

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Conclusion

Chicken Parm Pinwheels offer all the delicious flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a fun, easy-to-eat format. These savory pinwheels are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to parties, and are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of options for customization, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist.