Chicken Parm Pinwheels are a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish that packs a flavorful punch in a bite-sized package. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or family brunch, these pinwheels have quickly become a go-to recipe in my kitchen. The combination of gooey cheeses, tender rotisserie chicken, and aromatic basil wrapped in buttery crescent dough makes them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. Each bite is a mini celebration of comfort food that sparks joy whenever served.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s a delicious way to elevate your everyday meals without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution, a tasty appetizer for a potluck, or a fun snack while binge-watching your favorite series, these Chicken Parm Pinwheels check all the boxes. They are kid-approved, making them a hit at family gatherings, and can even be served as a fancy appetizer if cut smaller.

“These pinwheels are the perfect blend of flavors and textures! My kids devoured them at the family gathering, and I can’t wait to make them again!” – A satisfied home cook.

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Chicken Parm Pinwheels is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. You’ll start by preparing your dough, followed by filling it with a savory mixture of chicken, cheese, and sauce. Rolling, slicing, and baking are the final steps that lead to delicious, golden-brown pinwheels. In just a little over half an hour, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll gather for this mouthwatering recipe:

• Cooking spray
• All-purpose flour (for rolling)
• 2 (8 oz.) tubes of crescent roll dough
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus more for serving)
• 2 oz. of finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups plus 2 tbsp. of shredded mozzarella cheese (about 6 oz.), divided
• 2 cups of chopped rotisserie chicken (about 7 oz.)
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil (plus more for serving)

Tip: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! You can also substitute fresh basil with dried if that’s what you have on hand.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.
2. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the crescent roll dough and lay one sheet on top of the other. Roll out the dough, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking, until you achieve a 16" x 12" rectangle.
3. Trim the short sides of the dough to create clean edges. Lightly flour a large kitchen towel and place the dough on it, arranging the longer side facing you.
4. Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a 1" border at the top.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese, the chopped rotisserie chicken, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella, and the chopped basil.
6. Starting with the end closest to you, use the towel to help you roll the dough away from you as snugly as possible, taking care not to squeeze out the filling.
7. Slice the roll into 12 pieces and arrange them cut side up in the prepared muffin pan. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of mozzarella on top.
8. Bake the pinwheels for 10 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling, about 15 to 20 minutes more.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Top with additional basil, and serve with marinara sauce on the side.

How to Plate and Pair

To enjoy these Chicken Parm Pinwheels to their fullest, consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad or with a side of garlic bread to soak up any extra marinara sauce. They can be presented beautifully on a platter garnished with additional basil or parsley for an elegant touch. For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Chicken Parm Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to make these ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Just store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adjusting the time as needed.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• If time permits, try making your own marinara sauce. It’s an excellent way to adjust flavors to your liking!
• Rolling the dough tightly helps ensure that each slice of the pinwheel holds its shape during baking.
• Make sure to use a sharp knife to slice your pinwheels cleanly; this keeps all the filling intact.

Creative Twists

Feel free to switch things up! You could incorporate different proteins like cooked ground beef or sausage, swap the cheeses (think ricotta or provolone), or even add spinach for extra nutrition. For a fun twist, experiment with barbecue sauce instead of marinara to create a BBQ Chicken version of these pinwheels!

FAQ

1. Can I use different types of chicken?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or even leftover turkey would work well in this recipe.

2. What can I serve as a dipping sauce?

While marinara is classic, you can try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or pesto for a different flavor experience.

3. Can I make the pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them for longer storage.

These Chicken Parm Pinwheels are not just a meal; they’re an experience that can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one. Whether as a family dinner or a special treat for guests, you’re sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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