These BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat! They combine tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and creamy cheddar cheese all rolled up in a soft tortilla.
They’re perfect for a snack or a party dish—everyone will want to grab one! I love making these for game day; they disappear faster than I can roll them up! 🐔🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for the quickest option. If you prefer, you can boil chicken breasts and shred them. Even canned chicken works when you’re short on time!
BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your taste buds – smoky, sweet, or spicy? You can even make your own BBQ sauce if you have time! For a lighter option, swap in a hot sauce mixed with a bit of honey.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack adds creaminess, or you can mix it up with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and flexible, but corn tortillas can work too if gluten is a concern. Just warm them slightly to keep them from cracking while rolling.
How Can I Roll Pinwheels Without Them Unraveling?
Rolling your tortillas tightly is the key to keeping these pinwheels intact! Here’s how:
- Make sure to spread your chicken mixture evenly, but don’t overfill; a little filling goes a long way.
- Start rolling from one edge while holding the filling in place with your fingers. Roll it up tightly, but not too tight to tear the tortilla.
- After cutting them, serve immediately, or wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve!
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or jalapeños for a kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served right away, or you can warm the pinwheels, which takes an additional 5-7 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or a fun party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir it well until all the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. This will be the flavorful filling for your pinwheels!
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay out your four flour tortillas on a flat surface. Make sure they are laid out separately so you can work with each one easily.
3. Add the Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over each tortilla. Don’t skimp—this adds a gooey melty goodness that we all love!
4. Layer the Chicken Mixture:
Now spread the BBQ chicken mixture over the cheese on each tortilla. Be sure to distribute it evenly but avoid overfilling to prevent spills.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’d like a little extra zing, sprinkle some chopped green onions or jalapeños on top of the chicken mixture. This adds a nice touch and a kick of flavor!
6. Roll the Tortillas:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log. Hold the filling in while rolling, but don’t roll too tightly to avoid tearing the tortilla.
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces. You should get about 8-10 pinwheels from each tortilla!
8. Arrange for Serving:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter. They’ll look so inviting—everyone will want to grab one!
9. Optional Warming:
If you’d like, you can warm the pinwheels in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will melt the cheese and warm up the filling, making it extra delicious!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your pinwheels with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy these savory, cheesy BBQ chicken pinwheels warm or at room temperature! They’re perfect for any gathering or just a delicious snack for yourself.
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! While flour tortillas work best for a soft and easy roll, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just warm them slightly to prevent cracking while rolling.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold, or for a warm snack, reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels up to one day in advance. Simply roll them, slice them, and cover them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to serve when you are!
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using teriyaki sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy buffalo sauce! Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will change, so choose a sauce that you enjoy!