Savory Chicken Fiesta Pinwheels
These delightful pinwheels are a fan-favorite at parties and gatherings. Packed with flavors from tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a touch of spicy sweetness, these pinwheels will captivate your taste buds. They're perfect for an elegant appetizer or a light lunch, embodying both convenience and deliciousness. Their vibrant colors and taste make them a standout choice for any festive occasion.
24
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cooked chicken
1 cup (finely chopped)
Lettuce
1/2 cup (chopped)
Reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (shredded)
Green onion
1/3 cup (chopped)
Red bell pepper
1/3 cup (minced)
Light cream cheese
4 ounces (softened)
Low-fat sour cream
2 tablespoons
Hot red pepper jelly
1 tablespoon
Flour tortillas
3 pieces (9 inch each)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked chicken, chopped lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and minced red bell pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2
In a separate small bowl, use an electric mixer on low speed to blend the softened cream cheese, low-fat sour cream, and hot red pepper jelly until smooth and creamy.
3
Lay one flour tortilla on a flat surface. Evenly spread one-third of the cream cheese mixture over the surface of the tortilla, ensuring you leave a 1/2 inch border at the top edge of the tortilla.
4
Sprinkle one-third of the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Gently press down the filling to help it adhere.
5
Starting at the filled end, carefully roll the tortilla up tightly in a jelly roll fashion. Finish rolling, pressing firmly to seal the edge.
6
Wrap the rolled tortilla snugly in plastic wrap to maintain shape.
7
Repeat the filling, rolling, and wrapping process with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
8
Place the wrapped rolls in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours to set.
9
Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and trim off the ends of each roll. Cut each roll into 8 even slices.
10
Arrange on a platter and serve cold. Enjoy the sensational blend of tastes and textures!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Chicken Fiesta Pinwheels?
They are a delightful appetizer or lunch snack made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, slightly spicy spread rolled in tortillas.
What ingredients are needed for the filling?
The filling includes cooked chicken, lettuce, sharp cheddar cheese, green onions, and minced red bell peppers.
How do I prepare the cream cheese spread?
Use an electric mixer to blend softened cream cheese, low-fat sour cream, and hot red pepper jelly until smooth.
Can I use regular sour cream instead of low-fat?
Yes, regular sour cream can be used as a direct substitute for low-fat sour cream in this recipe.
What size tortillas should be used?
The recipe calls for three 9-inch flour tortillas.
How long do the pinwheels need to chill?
They should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to set before slicing.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe produces 24 pinwheel slices.
How should the chicken be prepared?
The chicken should be cooked and finely chopped before being mixed with the vegetables.
What is the purpose of the hot red pepper jelly?
It adds a touch of spicy sweetness to the creamy base, giving the pinwheels their unique fiesta flavor.
How do I ensure the tortillas stay rolled up?
Wrap the rolled tortillas snugly in plastic wrap while they chill to maintain their shape and seal the edges.
Should I leave a border when spreading the cream cheese?
Yes, leave a 1/2 inch border at the top edge of the tortilla to ensure a clean seal when rolling.
How many slices should I get from each tortilla?
After trimming the ends, each roll should be cut into 8 even slices.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these are an excellent make-ahead dish as they require at least 2 hours of refrigeration.
What type of cheese is recommended?
Reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Are these pinwheels served hot or cold?
These pinwheels are meant to be served cold.
Is an electric mixer necessary?
An electric mixer on low speed is recommended to ensure the cream cheese mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy.
How do I prevent the filling from falling out?
Gently press down the chicken and vegetable mixture into the cream cheese layer to help it adhere before rolling.
Can I substitute the red bell pepper?
While it provides a specific crunch and color, you could use orange or yellow peppers as a substitute.
What is the best way to slice the rolls?
Use a sharp knife and trim off the uneven ends first, then slice into 8 equal pieces once the roll is well-chilled.
Are these suitable for a party?
Yes, they are described as a fan-favorite for parties due to their vibrant colors and sensational blend of tastes.
Can I use a different protein?
While this recipe uses chicken, you could experiment with cooked turkey or finely chopped ham.
Is the red pepper jelly very spicy?
It provides a mild spicy sweetness rather than intense heat, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.
What kind of lettuce works best?
Chopped iceberg or romaine works well for providing a crisp texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas of different varieties like whole wheat or spinach can be used.
Why do I need to trim the ends of the rolls?
Trimming the ends ensures each pinwheel served is full of filling and looks neat on the platter.
How do I mix the dry ingredients?
Combine the chicken, lettuce, cheese, onions, and peppers in a medium bowl and stir well to distribute.
Is this recipe easy to scale up?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to make more pinwheels for larger gatherings.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute for sour cream, though the tanginess may vary slightly.
What makes the texture unique?
The combination of smooth cream cheese, crisp vegetables, and soft tortillas creates a sensational blend of textures.