Crack Chicken Pinwheels are tasty little bites filled with creamy chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for a snack or party treat!
These pinwheels are so easy to make that I always keep some in my fridge for a quick grab-and-go snack. Everyone loves them, and they disappear in no time! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil some chicken breast if you prefer. If you’re vegetarian, consider using shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a tasty alternative.
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Vegan cream cheese works too if you want a dairy-free version.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing tastes great, or you can use a different dressing like blue cheese or a vinaigrette for a unique twist.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a kick. Vegan cheese can also work here!
Bacon: For a healthier option, turkey bacon or veggie bacon is a good choice. Omit it entirely for a meat-free version.
Flour Tortillas: Whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add extra flavor and nutrition. Corn tortillas are gluten-free but may require more careful handling.
How Do I Roll the Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling pinwheels tightly but with care is key to keeping them together. Here’s how:
- Start with a soft tortilla; warmed tortillas are easier to roll without tearing.
- Use a generous yet even spread of the filling, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Begin rolling from one end, ensuring you keep the roll tight as you go.
- For better slicing, chill the rolled pinwheels in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this helps firm up the filling.
Cut with a sharp knife to avoid squishing. Regularly dipped in water can make slicing easier!
Crack Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6-8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 3-4 green onions, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Wrap:
- 4 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an extra 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. Total time: about 45 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Creamy Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Use a fork or mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious base for the pinwheels!
2. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Next, add the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and garlic powder into the cream cheese mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. You’ll have a thick and tasty filling ready!
3. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Lay a flour tortilla flat on a clean surface like a cutting board or countertop. Take about a quarter of the chicken mixture and spread it evenly over the tortilla, but make sure to leave a small border around the edges so it doesn’t overflow when you roll it up.
4. Roll it Up!
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, trying to keep everything together as you go. This will help keep the filling from falling out once it’s sliced.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the rolled tortilla into 1-inch wide pinwheels. You should ideally have about 8-10 pieces per tortilla, depending on your rolling tightness!
6. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the sliced pinwheels on a serving tray or plate. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh look!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pinwheels for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the cream cheese mixture to firm up a bit and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Crack Chicken Pinwheels as a yummy party appetizer or a delightful snack!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works great in these pinwheels. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I Prep These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the pinwheels up to a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and ready to serve!
How to Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best texture, enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Freeze These Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
