Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a tasty snack that’s super easy to make! With shredded chicken, creamy ranch, and yummy cheese rolled up in a tortilla, every bite is delicious.
These pinwheels are great for parties or just a cozy night in. Honestly, they’re so good, you might end up hiding them from the family! I like to serve mine with a side of veggies for a little balance.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the heart of these pinwheels. Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for its flavor and convenience. You can also use grilled or boiled chicken breast if you prefer. For a meatless option, try replacing chicken with shredded jackfruit!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the filling a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it will change the flavor subtly. Vegan cream cheese is also a great choice for dairy-free diets.
Cheddar Cheese: I love the sharpness of cheddar in these pinwheels. You can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack if you want some heat. It’s up to your preference!
Bacon: Chopped bacon adds richness and crunch. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. If you’re avoiding meat altogether, you could skip this or use a plant-based bacon.
Ranch Dressing: This adds wonderful flavor. If ranch isn’t your style, any creamy dressing like blue cheese or Caesar could be swapped in. Alternatively, you can make your own dressing with yogurt, herbs, and lemon.
How Should I Roll and Slice My Pinwheels?
Rolling your pinwheels properly ensures that they hold together and look great! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with one tortilla laid flat on a clean surface. Spread the filling evenly, but leave a little space at the edges, so it doesn’t spill out when you roll.
- Begin rolling tightly at one end. Keep the roll steady and even. This helps create neat pinwheels.
- Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch slices. Make sure to cut through smoothly to avoid squishing the filling out.
For best results, refrigerate the rolled tortillas for about 15 minutes before slicing. This makes them firmer and easier to cut!
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
For Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick snack or party dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your pinwheels are ready to bake. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, add your softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix them all together until it’s nice and smooth. This is where the amazing flavor starts!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and finely chopped green onions. Make sure everything is mixed well so each bite will be full of flavor!
4. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Now take one flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of your chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla but leave a little bit of space around the edges to avoid overflow when you roll it up.
5. Roll the Tortilla:
Starting from one end, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure it’s nice and snug, but not so tight that it bursts at the seams!
6. Slice and Bake:
Repeat the previous steps with the remaining tortillas and filling. Then, take a sharp knife and slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pinwheels. Place your pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, giving them some space to breathe.
7. Baking Time:
Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tortillas are lightly golden and the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Yay!
8. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a little extra taste and a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Crack Chicken Pinwheels are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or a fun snack. Enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe since it’s already cooked and full of flavor. Just shred it, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time. Once assembled, tightly wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just slice and bake when you’re ready to serve!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator 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 and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Crack Chicken Pinwheels?
Yes! Assemble the pinwheels and freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To bake, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, or bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.