Name: Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Delight in 35 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/8 tsp black pepper; 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan pinwheels are a delightful combination of savory chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans. This dish quickly brings comfort and flavor to your table, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that will impress your family and guests alike. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

This creamy chicken salad recipe offers a variety of reasons to love it. First, it’s easy to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. Second, the combination of flavors—from the savory chicken and rich cream cheese to the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans—creates a delightful taste experience. Third, it’s a versatile dish that works well for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a formal gathering. You can also customize it with different nuts or add-ins, making it a great choice for healthy chicken salad variations. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!

Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Delight in 35 Minutes - Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan - main visual representation

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

Gather these items:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

How to Make Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Unfold the puff pastry sheet and spread the chicken mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border.
Step 4: Starting from the short side, tightly roll up the puff pastry to form a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Step 5: Slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the pinwheels are golden brown.
Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for different flavors in your pecan chicken dish.
Make sure to slice your pinwheels evenly for consistent cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve warm as an appetizer or pair it with a fresh salad for a light dinner. Consider serving it alongside a chicken salad with cranberries and pecans for a delightful meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. These pinwheels are also great for meal prep, making them an easy grab-and-go option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients ensures a delicious outcome. Don’t skimp on seasoning, as it enhances the overall flavor profile of your chicken cranberry salad recipe.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, roll it up in the puff pastry and bake for a fresh and warm treat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan?

Common mistakes include overfilling the pinwheels and not sealing them properly. Make sure to leave enough space at the edges and pinch the seams well to avoid any leaks during baking.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Cranberry Pecan You Can Try

For a twist on the classic, consider substituting dried cherries for cranberries or adding feta cheese for a tangy flavor. You can also use different herbs like rosemary or basil to create a unique version of this creamy chicken dish with cranberries.