These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a tasty treat! Filled with creamy chicken, cheese, and ranch, they bring together wonderful flavors in every bite.
Honestly, they’re super fun to make and even more fun to eat! I like to serve these at parties, and they always disappear fast. Everyone loves them! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the star here! You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using canned chickpeas or cooked mushrooms instead.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture. You could swap in Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or vegan cream cheese if you need a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you could also use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra spice. If you’re looking for a lighter choice, use low-fat cheese.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon brings a smoky crunch, but cooked turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas as a vegetarian substitute work great too!
Ranch Seasoning: Ranch seasoning is key for the flavor boost! If you can’t find it, mix dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version.
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are perfect for wrapping. You can use whole wheat, spinach, or even gluten-free tortillas if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure My Pinwheels Stay Rolled and Neat?
Chilling the rolled tortillas is the key to keeping them firm and easy to slice. Here are a few tips to make rolling easier:
- Spread the filling evenly, but not too thick; you want it to roll tightly.
- Start at one edge and roll carefully, applying gentle pressure as you go.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before chilling. This helps the pinwheels hold their shape.
- Use a sharp knife to slice — a serrated knife works best to prevent squishing!
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (or ranch dressing mix)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions
For the Wrap:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before your delicious pinwheels are ready to serve! The chilling time will help them firm up nicely for slicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, chopped parsley or green onions, cooked chicken, and crumbled bacon. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s all well combined and creamy.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface, like a cutting board or countertop. This is your canvas for spreading the delicious filling!
3. Spread the Filling:
Take about a quarter of the chicken mixture and spread it evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla. Make sure to cover it almost to the edges, so every bite is full of flavor!
4. Roll it Up:
Start from one edge of the tortilla and tightly roll it into a log shape. Make sure to keep it snug, but not so tight that the filling squeezes out. The tighter you roll, the better it holds together!
5. Repeat the Process:
Repeat the same process with the remaining tortillas and filling. You will end up with several rolled tortilla logs filled with that yummy mixture.
6. Chill the Rolls:
Wrap each rolled tortilla log individually in plastic wrap. This helps maintain their shape. Pop them into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This makes the slicing much easier!
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
After chilling, unwrap the logs and use a sharp knife to cut each into 1-inch thick slices. You should see beautiful pinwheels that show off all that delicious filling!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter or baking sheet for everyone to enjoy. If you like them warm, place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melty and the edges are golden.
Serve immediately and enjoy these flavorful, cheesy, and crispy Crack Chicken Pinwheels! Perfect for parties or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it into the filling as you would with cooked chicken breast. It adds the same delicious flavor with even less preparation!
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap them tightly to maintain their freshness. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to warm them through.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Gluten-Free?
Yes, just swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Many stores have great options that will work just as well for rolling up your filling!
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Filling?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced jalapeños for spice, chopped bell peppers for crunch, or even different herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor. Just make sure the additions are finely chopped to keep the texture consistent!