Name: Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls; 1 8 oz. cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups diced cooked chicken (*You can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken for convenience.); 1 4 oz. can green chiles (do not drain liquid); 2 tbsp diced black olives (optional); Juice of 1/2 lime

If you’re looking for an appetizer that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, then look no further than Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels! These delightful bites are perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy family dinner. With the flaky goodness of crescent rolls, creamy filling, and zesty taco flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious dish that will have your guests asking for the recipe!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, they combine familiar flavors in a fun and portable format, making them ideal for sharing. The creamy filling is infused with taco seasoning, giving it that irresistible taste that everyone loves. Additionally, the crescent roll dough provides a buttery, flaky texture that complements the savory filling beautifully. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as a snack, these pinwheels are guaranteed to disappear quickly!

Ingredients at a Glance

To whip up these tasty Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls
1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups diced cooked chicken*
1 (4 oz.) can green chiles (do not drain liquid)
Optional: 2 tbsp diced black olives
Juice of 1/2 lime
Sour cream for serving

*You can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start, make sure to gather these essential appliances and accessories:

Baking sheet: To bake your pinwheels to golden perfection.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Mixing bowl: To combine the creamy filling ingredients.
Spatula: For spreading the filling onto the crescent rolls.
Knife: To slice the pinwheels evenly.

Cook Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pinwheels will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, taco seasoning, diced cooked chicken, green chiles (with their liquid), and diced black olives (if using). Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Open the cans of refrigerated crescent rolls and carefully unroll the dough onto a clean surface. You will need to press the seams of the crescent triangles together to form a solid rectangle, creating a single sheet of dough.

Step 4: Spread the Filling

Using a spatula, spread an even layer of the creamy chicken filling over the entire surface of the crescent dough. Make sure to cover it from edge to edge for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Roll It Up

Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Once rolled, pinch the seams to seal the edges.

Step 6: Slice the Pinwheels

Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 16 slices from each roll.

Step 7: Bake the Pinwheels

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the pinwheels cut-side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a side of sour cream for dipping, and enjoy the deliciousness of your Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels!

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels are versatile and can be enjoyed at various occasions throughout the year. Here are some seasonal serving ideas:

Game Day: Perfect finger food for watching your favorite sports teams.
Summer BBQs: An easy appetizer to serve at outdoor gatherings.
Holiday Parties: A festive addition to any holiday spread.
Picnics: Great for on-the-go snacking or sharing with friends.

What I Learned Testing

During the testing of Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels, I discovered a few tips that can enhance your experience:

The filling can be customized by adding your favorite ingredients, such as corn or diced bell peppers.
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a depth of flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your taste preferences; a little more can make it zestier!
These pinwheels can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To keep your Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels fresh for later, follow these storage and reheating tips:

You can store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain their flaky texture.

If you want to prepare them in advance, you can assemble the pinwheels, refrigerate them unbaked, and then bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.

Handy Q&A

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor to your pinwheels.

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator unbaked. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make these pinwheels vegetarian?

To make vegetarian pinwheels, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers to the filling.

What can I serve with the pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair well with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

That’s a Wrap

Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Their colorful filling and golden exterior make them an inviting addition to any platter. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a quick snack, these pinwheels are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

With the combination of creamy chicken, zesty seasoning, and flaky crescent dough, it’s no wonder these Crescent Chicken Taco Pinwheels have become a favorite in my kitchen. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch as they become a staple for all your gatherings! You won’t regret it!