Amazing Pesto Chicken Pinwheels Recipe for Parties and Snacks

If you’re searching for the perfect party appetizer or a fun family snack, these pesto chicken pinwheels are a winner! Made with flaky puff pastry, juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy feta, every bite bursts with flavor. The swirl of vibrant green pesto not only adds color but also packs in fresh, herby goodness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, game day, or just craving something special, these pinwheels will quickly become a favorite.

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History or Background

The concept of pinwheels, or rolled savory pastries, dates back to European kitchens where puff pastry was a staple. Over time, cooks began filling them with meats, cheeses, and herbs to create bite-sized treats for parties and gatherings. The pesto chicken pinwheel is a modern twist that combines Italian-inspired pesto with Mediterranean flavors like sun-dried tomatoes and feta, all wrapped in buttery pastry for a delicious fusion.

Why You’ll Love Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

There are so many reasons these pinwheels will steal the show:

• Easy to make: With ready-made puff pastry, this recipe comes together quickly.
• Bursting with flavor: Pesto, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes create a savory, tangy, and herby balance.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, holidays, or game day snacking.
• Versatile: Serve them warm or at room temperature without losing their appeal.
• Beautiful presentation: The spiral layers make them look as good as they taste.

Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

To make these delicious pesto chicken pinwheels, you’ll need simple, flavorful ingredients:

• 1.1 lb pack of puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
• 12 oz chicken breast
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking chicken)
• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, minced
• ⅓ cup pesto (for mixing with filling)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup additional pesto (for spreading on pastry)
• 1 egg white (for sealing and brushing)

These ingredients combine for a flaky pastry with creamy, savory filling and an herby kick from the pesto.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

1. Prepare puff pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheets on parchment paper.
2. Cook chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in vegetable oil over medium heat until done. Let cool, dice, and place in a mixing bowl.
3. Preheat oven: Set oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Make filling: Add feta, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, and ⅓ cup pesto to the chicken. Mix well.
5. Assemble pinwheels: Spread 2 Tbsp pesto over each pastry sheet, leaving a 1-inch edge bare. Spread the chicken mixture evenly, also leaving the edge bare.
6. Roll & seal: Roll pastry toward the bare edge, stopping just before the end. Brush edge with egg white and seal. Place seam-side down. Brush tops with egg white.
7. Slice & bake: Cut rolls into 1-inch slices and place 2 inches apart on the sheet. Bake 15–17 minutes until golden and puffed.

Pro Tips for Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

• Chill before slicing: Place the rolled pastry in the fridge for 15 minutes before cutting. This makes cleaner, even pinwheels.
• Don’t overfill: Keep the filling evenly spread but not too thick, or the pinwheels may burst while baking.
• Use sharp knife: A serrated knife works best to cut through the puff pastry without squishing the rolls.

Serving Ideas for Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

These pesto chicken pinwheels are fantastic as:

• A warm party appetizer served with extra pesto or marinara dipping sauce.
• A snack platter addition paired with cheeses, olives, and crackers.
• A light lunch with a fresh salad on the side.
• A holiday or game day finger food that guests can grab and enjoy.

Storage Advice for Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

Store leftover pesto chicken pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to keep them crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the pastry soggy.

Find out more: Amazing Baked Turkey Croissants: A Perfect Blend of Flavor and Comfort

FAQs about Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

1. Can I make pesto chicken pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls, refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours, then slice and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze pesto chicken pinwheels?
Absolutely. Assemble, slice, and freeze the pinwheels on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3–4 extra minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful shortcut for this recipe.

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Conclusion

These Pesto Chicken Pinwheels are a delightful blend of flaky puff pastry, creamy feta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and herby pesto—perfect for any gathering. Impress your guests with buttery, spiral-cut bites that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Whether it’s game day, a festive party, or a casual snack, these pinwheels deliver vibrant flavor with minimal effort. Try the recipe today—your crowd will thank you!

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