chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

If you’re looking for a delightful snack or appetizer that will impress your family and friends, look no further! These chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a cherished recipe of mine that never fails to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Plus, they shine at parties and gatherings, offering that irresistible combination of flaky pastry with gooey cheese.

What makes these pinwheels extra special is how simple they are to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels fancy without the fuss. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These pinwheels come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory flavors of chicken ham combined with ooey-gooey cheese.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them warm from the oven or make them ahead of time; they taste great either way!
• Impressive Presentation: They look beautiful on any platter, making them an ideal choice for parties and gatherings.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients, you can feel good about serving these to your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a role in bringing this savory treat to life!

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed overnight in the refrigerator
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard, divided
• 12 slices thinly-sliced, good-quality deli chicken ham (about 10 ounces)
• 2 cups freshly grated Gruyere, Swiss, fontina, sharp cheddar, or similar melty cheese (about 5 ounces)
• Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or chives (optional, for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey ham or even grilled chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Incorporate some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Make it sweet: For a fun twist, add a layer of fruit preserves before rolling up the pastry—apricot or fig works beautifully!

How to Make chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven nice and hot! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures your pinwheels bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Once your oven is preheated, lay out those thawed puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. Brush each sheet generously with 1½ tablespoons of Dijon mustard. This step not only adds flavor but also helps hold everything together.

Step 3: Layer with Chicken Ham and Cheese

Now it’s time to build our filling! Place 6 slices of deli chicken ham on each pastry sheet, ensuring you cover every inch. Then sprinkle the freshly grated cheese over the top—this is where all that gooey goodness comes from!

Step 4: Roll the Pastry

Starting from one edge, carefully roll each puff pastry sheet into a tight log or cylinder. Make sure to seal the seam well so your pinwheels stay intact while baking. A little pressure goes a long way here!

Step 5: Slice into Pinwheels

Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled puff pastry into approximately 1-inch wide pinwheels. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, giving each one some space as they’ll puff up beautifully in the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Pop those delightful pinwheels into your preheated oven! Bake them for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them because nobody likes burnt edges!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives before serving warm. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Creating the perfect chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels is all about technique and a few handy tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time!

• Thaw Properly: Ensure your puff pastry is thoroughly thawed in the refrigerator overnight. This will prevent it from becoming too sticky or tearing when you roll it out.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality deli chicken ham and freshly grated cheese. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor and texture, making your pinwheels even more delightful.
• Seal the Edges: When rolling up your pastry, press firmly on the seams to seal them well. This helps keep the filling inside during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped pinwheels.
• Keep an Eye on Baking: Every oven is different! Start checking your pinwheels a few minutes before the recommended baking time to ensure they don’t over-bake or burn.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings with different cheeses or add-ins like spinach or roasted peppers. This versatility lets you create variations that suit your taste!

How to Serve chicken ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Serving these pinwheels can be just as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your guests and make this dish shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Finely chopped parsley, thyme, or chives add a pop of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Dijon Mustard Dip: Serve with a small bowl of Dijon mustard on the side for dipping. It complements the flavors beautifully.
• Microgreens: A sprinkle of microgreens on top can offer an elegant touch while adding a slight crunch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens tossed in a vinaigrette balances the richness of the pinwheels and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of raw veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers served with hummus or ranch dip makes for a satisfying accompaniment.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs pair nicely with these savory treats, providing heartiness to your meal.
• Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruit skewers made with strawberries, grapes, and melon are not only visually appealing but also provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the pinwheels.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable experience around your chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week as a convenient snack or appetizer.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain crispness, consider placing a paper towel inside the container.

Freezing

• After slicing the pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious pinwheels? Here are some common queries!

Can I make chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance, store them in the fridge, or even freeze them for later. Just reheat before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

What types of cheese work best in chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels?

Great choices include Gruyere, Swiss, fontina, or sharp cheddar—all of which melt beautifully and complement the chicken ham perfectly.

Can I customize the filling of the chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap out the chicken ham for other deli meats that suit your taste.

How do I ensure my chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are crispy?

Make sure your oven is preheated adequately before baking, and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow proper air circulation.

Final Thoughts

These chicken ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are not just scrumptious; they also bring a touch of joy to any gathering. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I hope you have as much fun making these as I did! Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings. Happy cooking!