Easy Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

There’s something magical about simple recipes that deliver big on flavor—and Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are exactly that kind of magic. These delightful little bites are the perfect blend of creamy, savory, tangy, and just a touch sweet. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday potluck, packing lunch for the kids, or just treating yourself to a make-ahead snack, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy, fuss-free, and incredibly satisfying.

I first made these on a chilly autumn afternoon, using some leftover chicken from the night before. I didn’t expect them to become such a hit, but within minutes, every pinwheel had disappeared off the plate. Since then, they’ve become my go-to for gatherings and cozy nights alike. And the best part? You can make them with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so lovable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor

Each bite of these Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is a flavor party. You get the tangy pop of dried cranberries, the smooth richness of cream cheese, and the savory depth of shredded chicken—all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Add some chopped green onions for freshness, and if you like a bit of crunch, throw in some chopped pecans. The result is balanced, bold, and wonderfully satisfying.

Think creamy meets zesty, with a touch of holiday magic in every bite.

Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

This recipe shines because it’s built on real, everyday ingredients:

• Leftover chicken? Perfect.

• Tortillas and cream cheese? Likely already in your fridge.

• Dried cranberries? A pantry staple, especially around the holidays.

There’s no need to run to a specialty store—everything you need is probably already in your kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a fantastic option for feeding a crowd without overspending.

Foolproof and Quick

You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced cooking skills here. With just 15 minutes of prep, this is a recipe that’s easy enough for busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, or even letting the kids help out. Simply mix, roll, chill, and slice. That’s it!

It’s one of those rare recipes that delivers on flavor and simplicity.

Totally Customizable

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is:

• No chicken? Use turkey—especially great for Thanksgiving leftovers.

• Want a vegetarian version? Sub in roasted chickpeas or extra cheese and veggies.

• Looking for a new flavor twist? Try adding crumbled feta, chopped herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or experimenting with flavor, these pinwheels adapt beautifully.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make about 20 tasty pinwheels. These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful snack or light meal.

Full Ingredient List with Descriptions

• 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch) – These soft wraps are the base that holds everything together.

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy heart of the recipe. It binds the ingredients and adds rich flavor.

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped – A lean, savory protein that gives the pinwheels substance.

• ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped – A tangy, slightly sweet contrast that brightens every bite.

• ½ cup chopped green onions – Adds freshness and a mild kick.

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle savory note that enhances everything else.

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to warm up the flavor.

• Salt to taste – A little goes a long way to balance and enhance.

• Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans – For an extra crunch and nutty depth (especially great for holiday versions).

How to Make Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward—perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Even if you’re not much of a cook, you’ll feel like a pro by the time you slice these pinwheels and see the beautiful swirl of creamy filling and jewel-toned cranberries. Let’s walk through it, step by step.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with the filling.
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cooked chicken, dried cranberries, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. If you’re adding pecans, toss those in too. Mix everything until well blended and creamy.

2. Lay out your tortillas.
   Place the flour tortillas flat on a clean work surface. If they’re a little stiff, microwave them for 10–15 seconds to make them more pliable.

3. Spread the filling.
   Using a spatula, gently spread the chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla. Be sure to leave about ½ inch around the edges to make rolling easier and neater.

4. Roll it up.
   Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla up tightly into a log shape. The tighter you roll, the better the pinwheels will hold their shape.

5. Chill to set.
   Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is important—it helps the filling firm up so you get clean slices.

6. Slice and serve.
   Once chilled, unwrap the rolls and slice them into 1-inch thick pinwheels.

Pro tip: Use a serrated knife for the cleanest cuts—especially if you’ve added nuts.

These pinwheels are delicious served chilled, but they’re just as lovely at room temperature, making them ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or picnics.

What to Serve with Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels

These pinwheels may be bite-sized, but they pack enough flavor to shine on any spread. Here are some perfect pairings to make them part of a well-rounded snack board or meal.

Suggested Pairings

Drinks:

• Sparkling water with lemon

• Apple cider (hot or cold!)

• A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Sides:

• Fresh veggie sticks with hummus

• Fruit skewers (grapes, melon, pineapple)

• Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette

Desserts:

• Mini cheesecakes or lemon bars

• Sugar cookies or shortbread

• Chocolate-dipped pretzels

These pinwheels are also right at home on a festive holiday grazing board with meats, cheeses, and olives.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to tailor this recipe to your tastes or dietary needs? Good news: Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are endlessly adaptable. Whether you're avoiding nuts, going gluten-free, or looking for a vegetarian twist, there’s a version for you.

Nut-Free Option

Skip the pecans if allergies are a concern—or simply don’t love nuts. You can also substitute with:

• Sunflower seeds for crunch

• Pumpkin seeds for a slightly earthy flavor

Make It Sweeter or More Savory

Want to lean into the sweet-savory balance or add a gourmet twist? Try these:

• A drizzle of honey in the filling for a touch more sweetness

• Feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy edge

• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten things up

Gluten-Free Version

Just swap the regular tortillas for certified gluten-free tortillas. Make sure they’re soft and flexible to avoid cracking when rolling.

Use Different Proteins

No cooked chicken on hand? No problem!

• Turkey breast is perfect for post-holiday leftovers

• Canned chicken works in a pinch—just drain well

• Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and extra flavor

• Vegetarian option: Try mashed chickpeas or a combo of cream cheese, spinach, and chopped roasted red peppers

Storage Instructions

One of the things I love most about Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels is how well they hold up when made in advance. Whether you're prepping for a party or planning weekday lunches, proper storage makes all the difference in keeping them fresh and flavorful.

Room Temperature

If you're serving these at a gathering or picnic, they’re fine to sit out for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated to maintain food safety and texture.

Refrigeration

To keep your pinwheels tasting their best:

• Store them in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic

• They’ll stay fresh for 2–3 days in the refrigerator

• Serve them chilled or slightly room temp for the perfect bite

Freezing Instructions

Freezing the sliced pinwheels isn’t ideal—they tend to get soggy after thawing.
Instead:

• Freeze the whole rolled logs (before slicing)

• Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze

• When ready, thaw in the fridge, then slice and serve

This make-ahead trick is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to make your Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels look gorgeous and taste even better:

• Let cream cheese soften completely before mixing—it’ll be easier to blend and spread

• Finely chop the chicken, cranberries, and onions for an even texture

• Don’t skip the chill time—refrigerating before slicing helps the roll set up nicely

• Use a serrated knife to slice cleanly without squishing the pinwheels

• Try flavored cream cheese (like herb & garlic) for a creative twist

• Avoid overfilling the tortillas, or they’ll be harder to roll and might tear

A little care in prep makes a big difference in presentation—and satisfaction!

Related Recipes

1. Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
   Tie-in with cranberry theme—sweet counterpart to your savory pinwheels, great for holiday boards.

2. Cream Cheese Strawberry Cookies
   Use this as a cream cheese-based dessert pairing suggestion after serving the pinwheels.

3. Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti
   Another creamy chicken-based main dish—ideal for meal planning or potluck menus.

4. French Onion Dip Chicken Thighs Recipe
   Flavor-forward chicken dish that could be served alongside or suggested for hearty dinner follow-up.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! They’re perfect for meal prep or events. You can make the rolls up to 2 days in advance and keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge. Just slice before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels?

Yes, but with a twist. Freeze the uncut logs, not the individual slices, for best results. Sliced pinwheels tend to lose their texture after thawing.

What kind of chicken works best?

You’ve got options! Use cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken. Just make sure it’s chopped fine for easier rolling.

Can I serve these warm?

While they’re traditionally served cold or at room temperature, you can gently warm them if preferred. Just be mindful not to overheat the cream cheese filling.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Definitely! Herb, garlic, chive, or even cranberry-flavored cream cheese can enhance the taste and add a fun twist.

Got a question not listed here? Drop it in the comments—I'd love to help!

Conclusion

Chicken Cranberry Pinwheels are the kind of recipe every home cook needs in their back pocket: quick, delicious, and delightfully customizable. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday buffet, packing a picnic, or just making weekday snacking a little more special, these pinwheels bring the flavor and the fun.

They're proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—and that even the simplest recipes can feel festive and indulgent.

Tried this recipe?
Leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out—or how you made it your own. And don’t forget to save it on Pinterest so you can find it for your next party or cozy night in. 💛

Print