Hey, mamas! Let me tell you about my latest go-to recipe that’s perfect for literally everything: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels. Whether you’re whipping up appetizer sandwiches for game day, need some easy-to-make appetizers for a last-minute potluck, or are hunting down the best pinwheel appetizers for your next party, these little bites are a total winner.
I made these the other day for a family movie night, and let me just say, they’re everything you want in crowd-pleasing appetizers. They’re warm, flaky, cheesy, and just the right amount of garlicky goodness. Plus, as a mom of three, I can confirm that anything in bite-size form is automatically kid-approved. (Also, they’re ridiculously easy to throw together, which is basically my love language when it comes to cooking.)
These chicken pinwheels are great for all kinds of gatherings—think appetizers for a party, fall pinwheel recipes, or even football game snacks. They’re one of those simple appetizers that everyone loves, whether you serve them on a pinwheel charcuterie board or pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Honestly, I’ve even packed these in my kids’ lunches as mini pinwheel sandwiches—huge hit.
If you’re looking for easy pinwheel appetizers that are baked, warm, and loaded with flavor, this is it. These shredded chicken pinwheels check all the boxes: yummy appetizers for parties, easy carry-in food ideas, and just an all-around crowd-pleaser. Ready to roll (pun intended)? Let’s make these party pinwheels happen!
Why These Pinwheels Are a Lifesaver
- Quick & easy: If you can open a can of crescent rolls, you’ve basically got this.
- Kid-approved: All three of my kiddos gave these a 10/10, which never happens.
- Versatile: You can change up the flavors, sneak in some veggies, or use whatever leftover chicken you’ve got.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip these up:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (I usually use rotisserie chicken because who has time?)
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp softened cream cheese (because creamy = dreamy)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or sour cream if that’s what you’ve got)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Optional: Fresh parsley for sprinkling on top
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels
1. Prep the filling
First, grab a bowl and mix your shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, mayo, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir it up until it’s all creamy and smells amazing. This is the heart of your pinwheels, so make sure every bite has that cheesy goodness.
2. Roll out the crescent dough
Okay, let’s be real—opening that crescent roll can is always a little scary. But once you survive the pop, lay the dough flat on a clean surface. Pinch those seams together so you’ve got one big rectangle.
3. Spread the filling
Take your chicken mixture and spread it all over the dough. Go edge to edge, but leave a little space around the edges so it doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.
4. Roll it up like a pro
Here’s the fun part! Start from the shorter side of the dough and roll it up into a log. Roll it tight, but not so tight you squish all the filling out. Think of it like rolling up a sleeping bag for camping (but way tastier).
5. Slice into pinwheels
Grab a sharp knife and carefully slice the log into 10-12 pieces. You’ll end up with these adorable little spirals that are ready to bake.
6. Bake to golden perfection
Place your pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter—this makes them all golden and flaky. Bake at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re perfectly golden brown and your kitchen smells like garlic heaven.
7. Garnish and serve
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. Serve them warm, and if you’ve got some marinara or ranch dressing for dipping? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Mom Tips
- Make-ahead magic: You can prep these earlier in the day, pop them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready.
- Switch it up: Not a fan of Parmesan? Try mozzarella. Want a little kick? Add some crushed red pepper.
- Leftovers FTW: Got leftover turkey or chicken? Use it up here.
What to Serve with These Pinwheels
These are so good on their own, but if you’re making them part of a meal, try serving them with:
- A simple salad (you know, to balance out the cheese).
- Veggie sticks with ranch or hummus.
- Some chips or potato wedges for a snacky vibe.
Why These Are My Go-To
Y’all, I can’t even tell you how much I love this recipe. It’s the kind of thing that makes me feel like I’ve got my life together (even if I don’t). The kids devour them, they’re easy to make, and they taste so good. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding the fam, or just need a quick snack that doesn’t come out of a box, these pinwheels have your back.
FAQs for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheels, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for up to 6 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed. Fresh and warm every time!
Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?
Of course! Mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work great. Mozzarella gives them that gooey pull, while cheddar adds a sharp bite. Use what you love!
Do these work for potlucks and parties?
Yes, yes, yes! These are perfect party pinwheels. They’re portable, easy to eat, and taste just as good at room temperature, making them one of the best options for crowd-pleasing appetizers.
Are these good for football games and tailgates?
100%! These are chicken recipes for football games that’ll score big with everyone. They’re warm, cheesy, and easy to grab—perfect for game-day snacking.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, you can! Freeze them unbaked or fully baked. If freezing unbaked, assemble the pinwheels, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If already baked, thaw and reheat in the oven.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels Recipe Card
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can 8 oz refrigerated crescent roll dough
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp softened cream cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prep the filling:
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Roll out the dough:
- Open the crescent roll dough and lay it flat on a clean surface. Pinch the seams together to create a solid sheet.
Spread the filling:
- Evenly spread the chicken mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll it up:
- Starting at the shorter side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
Slice into pinwheels:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 10-12 slices. Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake:
- Brush the tops with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Perfect For:
- Parties and potlucks
- Game day snacks
- Quick family dinners
- Easy appetizers for a crowd
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
And there you have it—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pinwheels, the MVP of any snack table! Whether you’re making appetizer sandwiches for a chill night with friends, need appetizers for a crowd at your next party, or just want to whip up some easy-to-make appetizers for game day, these pinwheels check all the boxes.
They’re flaky, cheesy, garlicky, and just the right size for bite-size snacks that everyone loves. I mean, who can say no to chicken pinwheels appetizers fresh outta the oven? These are hands-down one of the best pinwheel appetizers you can make, and trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can set them down at the table.
If you’re looking for fall pinwheel recipes, chicken recipes for football games, or just some good ol’ party pinwheels to add to your menu, this is your recipe. Pair them with a pinwheel charcuterie board or a side of ranch or marinara for dipping, and watch them steal the show. Plus, as a busy mom of three, I love how simple they are to throw together—seriously, this is one of those easy pinwheel appetizers I know I can count on, even when life gets chaotic.
So, next time you’re hosting or need some crowd-pleasing appetizers, give these shredded chicken pinwheels a try. They’re warm, comforting, and everything you want in yummy appetizers for parties. Let me know if you make them! I’d love to hear how your family or guests liked them.
