These tasty Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a fun twist on a classic dish! Made with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and tasty ranch flavor, they’re rolled up in a tortilla for easy eating.
Perfect for parties or a quick snack, I love how easy they are to make—just mix, spread, roll, and slice. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! Who doesn’t love a good pinwheel? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works great! You can also use leftover chicken or even turkey for a fun twist.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap it for Greek yogurt. It won’t be as rich, but it’s still tasty!
Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice for flavor. If you want to mix it up, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or leave it out if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Ranch Seasoning: Essential for flavor! You can use homemade ranch seasoning if you have the ingredients, or substitute with Italian seasoning for a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Roll Pinwheels Without Breaking Them?
Rolling pinwheels tightly is key to keep them intact. Start with room temperature tortillas; they’re more pliable. Spread the filling evenly, leaving some space on the edges. As you roll, press gently but firmly, keeping the roll tight.
- Use a flat surface to easily roll the tortilla.
- Slice with a sharp knife to prevent squishing.
- For extra safety, refrigerate for 30 minutes after rolling to let them firm up before cutting.
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, ranch seasoning mix, and the chopped parsley (if you choose to add it). Stir everything together until well mixed and creamy. Make sure all the chicken is fully coated!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Take a large flour tortilla and lay it out flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the chicken mixture evenly across the tortilla, leaving a small edge around the sides. This makes it easier to roll up!
3. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, tightly roll the tortilla away from you to create a log shape. Make sure to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling spills out. Repeat this step with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
4. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch thick pinwheel pieces. Aim for even slices for a nice presentation.
5. Bake the Pinwheels:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place the pinwheel slices on the sheet, cut side up. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes. You want them to be heated through and the cheese bubbly!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These are delicious warm or at room temperature! Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
These creamy, cheesy, and savory Crack Chicken Pinwheels are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a tasty snack for yourself. Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients for a quick and easy filling.
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filled tortillas and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just roll them tightly in plastic wrap, and when you’re ready to bake, simply slice and cook them as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they’re warmed through, or microwave them briefly.