Crack Chicken Pinwheels are fun and tasty bites filled with creamy chicken, cheese, and ranch goodness. They are perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Honestly, these pinwheels are so easy to make, even a kid could help out! I love serving them with some crunchy veggies on the side. Enjoy the yumminess! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to. It’s already cooked and super flavorful. If you prefer, you can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken for a quicker option!
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese adds a rich base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt instead. They’ll still give that creamy texture!
Cheddar Cheese: I like sharp cheddar, as it packs a punch! You can switch it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick, or even vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: Cooked bacon brings crunch and flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a healthier option, try using turkey bacon or even crumbled tofu bacon for a similar texture!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are soft and easy to roll. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great substitutes for extra nutrition. Try using corn tortillas for a gluten-free version!
How Do You Roll Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling pinwheels can be tricky, but with a little technique, it’s easy! Start with room temperature tortillas, as they’re more pliable. Spread the filling but leave a small border to avoid overflow when rolling. Tightly roll from one edge to the other for a firm wrap.
- Place the filled tortilla seam-side down to keep it secure.
- Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts and avoid squishing the pinwheels.
- Chilling the rolled tortillas for about 30 minutes before slicing helps them hold their shape better!
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- Fresh parsley or extra green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes to bake. Just mix everything up, roll it, and let your oven do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent sticking!
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and dried dill (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This is the creamy base for your pinwheels!
3. Add the Goodness:
Next, toss in the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Stir well until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. It smells so good already!
4. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Take one large flour tortilla and lay it flat on your workspace. Spread about 1/4 of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. This helps to avoid spills when rolling!
5. Roll it Up:
Now, carefully roll the tortilla from one edge to the other into a tight log shape. Make sure it’s secure so it holds together nicely.
6. Slice into Pinwheels:
Once you have the tortilla rolled up, slice it into 1-inch thick pieces. These will be your tasty pinwheel bites!
7. Bake the Pinwheels:
Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be warm and the cheese bubbly!
8. Cool and Garnish:
When they are done baking, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley or additional green onions on top for a nice touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are best served warm. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
These pinwheels are not only tasty but also a hit at parties! Everyone loves that classic combination of chicken, bacon, ranch, and cheese. Have fun making and sharing them!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand will work perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy mixing!
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Spicier?
If you’d like a kick of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. Pepper Jack cheese is another great spicy substitute for cheddar!
Can I Make These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes, you can make the pinwheels ahead of time! Assemble them and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for about 30-60 seconds.