These tasty Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a fun twist on a classic favorite! Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, they are packed with flavor and super easy to make.
Perfect as a snack or party treat, these pinwheels always disappear fast! I could munch on these during a movie night and still have room for popcorn—guess I need to make a triple batch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is fantastic here. It’s tasty, tender, and saves you time! If you don’t have it, you can boil chicken breasts and shred them yourself or use canned chicken.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese alternative.
Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds flavor. If you prefer something milder, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Mixing different cheeses can also create a unique taste!
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives these pinwheels crunch and flavor. If you want to make it lighter, use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch! You can substitute with chives if you have them or any mild onion for a different flavor.
How Do I Roll the Tortillas Without them Breaking?
Rolling tortillas can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! First, slightly warm the tortillas in the microwave for a few seconds. This makes them more pliable. Next, spread the filling evenly but not too thick, leaving a small border around the edges.
- When rolling, start from one end and gently but firmly roll it into a log shape.
- Tightly wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap; this helps maintain shape.
- Chill before cutting; this firms up the filling and makes slicing easier.
With these tips, you’ll have perfect pinwheels every time!
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
For the Wrapping:
- 4 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour in the refrigerator for chilling. If you decide to bake them, add in an additional 10-12 minutes for that. Overall, it’s a quick and easy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by taking a mixing bowl and adding the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked shredded chicken, chopped bacon, sliced green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and ranch seasoning mix. Use a spatula or fork to mix everything together until it’s all well combined and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
2. Spread on Tortillas:
Now, lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Grab your delicious mixture and evenly spread it over each tortilla, making sure to get close to the edges without overflowing. This will ensure a great filling in every bite!
3. Roll it Up:
Time to roll! Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one end to the other, forming a log shape. Make sure to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling spills out. Once rolled, it’ll look nice and compact.
4. Chill and Firm Up:
Wrap each rolled tortilla log in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing them easier, so don’t skip this step!
5. Slice Into Pinwheels:
Once chilled, unwrap the logs, and using a sharp knife, slice each log into 1-inch pinwheel pieces. You should end up with evenly sized, beautiful pinwheels!
6. Optional Warm Version:
If you’d like them warm and melty, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pinwheels on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until they’re warmed through and slightly golden on the outside. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Whether you serve them warm or cold, these Crack Chicken Pinwheels make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a fun meal. They’re cheesy, savory, and filled with all the best flavors!
Enjoy these tasty pinwheels at your next gathering or as a delightful treat at home!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before using. The best way to thaw frozen chicken is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Make sure to shred it after cooking if you aren’t using pre-cooked chicken!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling, roll the tortillas, and then wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing. For an even easier option, make them a day ahead and just slice and serve when you’re ready!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the microwave or oven for a few minutes. If reheating, keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients like diced peppers, jalapeños for some heat, or even different types of cheese. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese for a healthier twist. Get creative!
