These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat! Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and your favorite spices, they’re rolled up in a soft tortilla for a yummy bite.
Perfect for parties or snack time, these pinwheels never last long at my house. I always say, if I can roll it up, it’s a winner! 😄
I love making these because they are so easy to prepare and always get raving reviews from family and friends. Serve them with a side of veggies for a colorful platter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! You can also use leftovers or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich creaminess to the filling. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its stronger flavor. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or even pepper jack if you like a little kick!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky crunch. Turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative works too if you prefer something lighter.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are traditional, but whole wheat or spinach tortillas are great for a healthier twist as well.
How Do You Roll Pinwheels Without Making a Mess?
Making neat pinwheels can take practice, but here’s the trick! Start with a clean, flat surface and lay your tortilla down properly.
- Spread the filling without going too close to the edges. This ensures the filling doesn’t ooze out while rolling.
- When rolling, start from one edge and go slowly, keeping it tight but not too tight to avoid cracking.
- If you find the tortillas are stiff, a quick microwave for 10-15 seconds can help them become more pliable!
Slice each rolled tortilla gently with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts if it gets messy!
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas (8-inch size)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you choose to warm them in the oven, add an additional 10-15 minutes. So altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes to have these delicious pinwheels ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until you get a smooth and creamy mixture—this will be the delicious filling for your pinwheels!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are fully combined. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
3. Spread the Mixture:
Take one of the large flour tortillas and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. This will help keep everything inside when you roll it up.
4. Roll It Up:
Now comes the fun part! Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other to form a log. Try to keep it as tight as possible without squeezing too hard, so the filling stays perfectly inside.
5. Repeat and Slice:
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture. Once you’ve formed all the rolls, take a sharp knife and slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pinwheel slices. This will give them that fun, bite-sized shape!
6. Serve Them Up:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving plate. If you’d like them warm, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is warmed through. They’re delicious either way!
Enjoy these creamy, cheesy, flavorful Crack Chicken Pinwheels at your next gathering or even for a cozy snack at home!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for these pinwheels. Just shred the chicken and mix it in with the other ingredients for a quick prep!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Dairy-free cream cheese alternatives are also great for a vegan version!
How Long Can 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 simply reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels, roll them up, and slice them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving. This makes them a great make-ahead appetizer!