Broccoli Chicken Cheese Pinwheels

Of all the recipes I’ve cycled through over the years, searching for that elusive weeknight winner, few have struck gold quite like these Broccoli Chicken Cheese Pinwheels. I remember the first time I made them, driven by a need to sneak more vegetables onto my family’s plates and use up some leftover rotisserie chicken. I was skeptical. Would the kids turn their noses up at the green flecks of broccoli? Would the puff pastry be too fussy? My worries melted away as soon as I pulled the baking sheet from the oven. The kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma of toasted pastry and savory, melted cheese. The pinwheels were gorgeous—perfectly coiled spirals of golden-brown dough, oozing with a creamy, cheesy filling. The real test, of course, was the first bite. Success! They were devoured. Not just politely eaten, but enthusiastically gobbled up, with requests for seconds. Since that day, these pinwheels have become a staple in our home. They are the ultimate culinary chameleon: a sophisticated appetizer for a party, a satisfying lunchbox treat served cold, and a quick, comforting dinner alongside a simple salad. They are proof that simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and a clever technique, can create something truly special and universally adored.

Ingredients

Here is the simple list of ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious and savory pinwheels. Using pre-cooked chicken and frozen puff pastry makes this recipe incredibly accessible and quick to assemble.

• Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (about 10×15 inches), thawed. This is the star of the show, creating the light, flaky, and buttery layers that define the pinwheel.
• Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded. A store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver here, providing moist and flavorful meat.
• Broccoli Florets: 1 ½ cups, very finely chopped. You can use fresh or frozen (thawed and patted dry) broccoli. The key is to chop it finely so it incorporates smoothly into the filling.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (1 block), softened to room temperature. This acts as the creamy, tangy binder that holds the entire filling together.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup. Provides a sharp, classic cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and broccoli.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup. This is included for its superior melting quality, giving you that irresistible, stringy cheese pull.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a deep, savory, and aromatic note to the filling.
• Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon. Complements the garlic powder with a subtle, sweet background flavor.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a touch of gentle heat.
• Egg: 1 large, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. This creates the egg wash, which is the secret to achieving a beautiful, shiny, golden-brown finish on the baked pinwheels.

Instructions

Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to ensure your pinwheels are perfectly assembled, baked, and delicious. The process is straightforward, but a few key details will elevate your results from good to great.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This is a non-negotiable step as it prevents the pinwheels from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Next, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go (a concept known in the culinary world as mise en place). Your chicken should be shredded, your broccoli chopped very finely, and your cream cheese softened. Having everything ready makes the assembly process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or a fork to mix these ingredients until they are well combined and form a thick, cohesive paste. Once the cheese base is smooth, gently fold in the shredded chicken and the finely chopped broccoli. Continue to mix until the chicken and broccoli are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. You want every bite of the pinwheel to have a little bit of everything.

Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Carefully unroll your thawed sheet of puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface or directly onto a piece of parchment paper. If needed, use a rolling pin to gently roll it out to a uniform rectangle, approximately 10×15 inches. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the chicken and broccoli filling evenly over the surface of the puff pastry. It’s very important to leave about a ½-inch border clear of filling along one of the long edges. This clean edge will help seal the log when you roll it up.

Step 4: Roll and Chill the Log
Starting from the long edge that has filling all the way to the edge, begin to tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. A tight roll is crucial for creating well-defined spirals that hold their shape during baking. Roll it up until you reach the clean border you left in the previous step. Lightly moisten this border with a little water or some of the egg wash and press it firmly to seal the log closed. Once sealed, wrap the entire log tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped log in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes, or in the freezer for 15 minutes. Do not skip this step! Chilling the log solidifies the filling and the pastry, which makes slicing clean, perfect rounds infinitely easier.

Step 5: Slice and Arrange
Once the log is firm, remove it from the plastic wrap and place it on a cutting board. Using a very sharp serrated knife or a chef’s knife, slice the log into rounds that are about ¾-inch thick. You should get between 16 to 20 pinwheels, depending on the exact dimensions of your log. Arrange the sliced pinwheels on the parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1-2 inches of space between each one to allow for puffing and even baking.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to create your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each pinwheel. This step will give them a beautiful, deep golden-brown color and a lovely sheen. Place the baking sheet in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and the cheese in the filling is melted and bubbly. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool on the sheet for about 5-10 minutes. This allows them to set up, making them easier to handle. You can then transfer them to a wire rack to cool further or serve them warm.

Nutrition Facts

Please note that these nutritional values are an approximation and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 16 pinwheels.
• Calories per Serving: Each pinwheel contains approximately 165 calories.
• Protein: Around 8g per pinwheel. The chicken and cheese provide a solid source of protein, making these pinwheels a satisfying snack that helps with muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full.
• Fat: Around 11g per pinwheel. The majority of the fat content comes from the buttery puff pastry and the rich cheeses, contributing to the incredible flavor and texture.
• Carbohydrates: Around 9g per pinwheel. Primarily from the puff pastry, these carbohydrates provide a quick source of energy.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed to be efficient, especially when using pre-cooked chicken.

• Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes. This includes chopping the broccoli, mixing the filling, and assembling the pinwheel log.
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes. This is a passive time where the refrigerator does the work to firm up the log for easy slicing.
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.

How to Serve

These Broccoli Chicken Cheese Pinwheels are incredibly versatile. Here are several fantastic ways to serve them, suitable for any occasion.

• As a Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer:
  • Arrange the warm pinwheels artfully on a large platter or wooden board.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
  • Serve with an array of dipping sauces in small bowls.
• With Dipping Sauces: The right dip can elevate these pinwheels to another level.
  • Classic Ranch Dressing: A cool, creamy, and herby classic that never fails.
  • Zesty Marinara Sauce: The bright, acidic tomato flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese.
  • Honey Mustard: A perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
  • Garlic Aioli: For those who want an extra punch of garlic and creaminess.
  • Spicy Buffalo Sauce: Mix a little hot sauce with melted butter for a spicy kick.
• As a Light Main Course:
  • Serve 3-4 pinwheels per person.
  • Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
  • Serve alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting and complete meal.
• In a Lunchbox:
  • These pinwheels are delicious when served cold, making them perfect for school or work lunches.
  • Pack 2-3 pinwheels in a bento box.
  • Accompany them with fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, and a small container of yogurt for a balanced meal.

Additional tips

Master the art of the pinwheel with these eight expert tips designed to ensure perfect results every single time.

1. Don’t Overstuff the Pastry: While it’s tempting to load up the filling, resist the urge. Overstuffing can cause the filling to ooze out during baking and makes the log difficult to roll tightly. A thin, even layer is key.
2. The Chill is Non-Negotiable: We mentioned it in the instructions, but it bears repeating. Chilling the log before slicing is the single most important tip for achieving clean, round pinwheels that don’t get squished. A firm log is a sliceable log.
3. Keep Your Puff Pastry Cold: Puff pastry gets its signature flakiness from layers of butter and dough. If the pastry gets too warm, the butter can melt before it hits the oven, resulting in greasy, flat pinwheels. Work quickly and keep it refrigerated until the moment you’re ready to unroll it.
4. Chop Ingredients Finely: For a smooth roll and an even distribution of flavor in every bite, make sure your broccoli and chicken are chopped very finely. Chunky ingredients can tear the delicate pastry and create an uneven, lumpy log.
5. Customize Your Cheese Blend: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the cheese! Swap the cheddar for a smoky Gruyère, a spicy Pepper Jack for a kick, or add a little Parmesan for a salty, nutty flavor.
6. Experiment with Add-ins: This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Consider adding a ¼ cup of finely diced red bell pepper for sweetness and color, some crumbled ham for extra savory flavor, or a few tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
7. Use a Serrated Knife for Slicing: A serrated knife (like a bread knife) is excellent for slicing the chilled log. It saws through the pastry without compressing it, helping to maintain the round shape of your pinwheels.
8. Reheat for Maximum Crispiness: If you have leftovers, the best way to bring them back to life is in the oven or an air fryer. Reheat them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will re-crisp the pastry and melt the cheese beautifully, making them taste almost as good as fresh. Avoid the microwave, which will make the pastry soft and soggy.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about making Broccoli Chicken Cheese Pinwheels.

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You have two excellent make-ahead options. You can either assemble the log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking. Or, you can fully bake the pinwheels, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.

2. Can I freeze Broccoli Chicken Cheese Pinwheels?
Yes, they freeze wonderfully. For best results, freeze them unbaked. After slicing the pinwheels, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and “flash freeze” them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer the frozen, unbaked pinwheels to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, you can bake them directly from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the original baking time.

3. What’s the difference between using puff pastry and crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry creates a very light, airy, and flaky pinwheel with many distinct, buttery layers. Crescent roll dough is softer, doughier, and sweeter, resulting in a pinwheel that is more like a soft dinner roll. Both are delicious, but puff pastry provides a more classic, crisp appetizer texture.

4. My pinwheels unraveled and fell apart while baking. What did I do wrong?
This is a common issue that usually comes down to three things. First, you may have overstuffed the filling. Second, the log might not have been rolled tightly enough. A loose roll will naturally unravel as the pastry puffs up. Finally, ensure you securely pinch the seam closed after rolling; a little water or egg wash on that final edge acts as a glue.

5. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. If using fresh broccoli, it’s best to blanch or lightly steam the florets for 1-2 minutes first. This slightly tenderizes them, making them easier to chop finely and ensuring they cook through completely in the oven. Be sure to drain them well and pat them thoroughly dry before chopping to avoid adding excess moisture to the filling.

6. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture.

7. Are these pinwheels good served cold?
Yes, they are surprisingly delicious served cold or at room temperature. The flavors meld together nicely as they sit. This makes them an excellent, hassle-free option for picnics, packed lunches, or party platters that you need to prepare in advance.

8. How can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Making a gluten-free version is very straightforward. Simply substitute the standard puff pastry with a high-quality, gluten-free puff pastry, which is now available in the freezer section of most major grocery stores. Ensure all other packaged ingredients, like the cream cheese and powders, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same.