Crack Chicken Pinwheels are fun and tasty rolls filled with creamy, flavorful chicken, cheese, and spices. They’re like little bites of happiness wrapped up tight!
These pinwheels are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I love making them ahead of time, and you can catch me sneaking some from the fridge! 🤭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You can also use leftover chicken from previous meals. If you’re in a pinch, canned chicken can work too!
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds great flavor. For a healthier option, try turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian twist. Don’t forget to adjust seasoning if omitting.
Cream Cheese: This provides the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Both will still keep things creamy!
Ranch Seasoning: This is key for flavor. If you’re out of ranch dressing mix, a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill works well. Alternatively, you can use other seasonings like taco seasoning for a fun twist!
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas work best, but you can opt for whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas. Smaller tortillas can work too; just adjust the filling amount accordingly.
How Do You Roll and Cut the Pinwheels Perfectly?
Rolling pinwheels might seem tricky, but I have some tips to help you out!
- Spread the filling evenly across the tortilla, leaving a small border. This prevents spilling when you roll it up.
- When rolling, start tightly from one end and keep it snug as you go. This helps keep the filling intact.
- After rolling, place the seam side down for easier cutting. Use a sharp knife to slice evenly into 1-inch pieces.
- If you want cleaner cuts, you can chill the rolled pinwheels for 30 minutes before slicing.
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch seasoning mix
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
For Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas or wraps
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these tasty pinwheels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, optional green onions, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. This is where the magic of flavors begins!
2. Assemble the Pinwheels:
Take one of the tortillas and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread about a quarter of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help keep the filling inside when we roll them up!
3. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure it’s snug but not so tight that the filling oozes out. Repeat this step with the remaining tortillas and filling until you’ve used it all.
4. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should end up with lovely round bites filled with all that deliciousness!
5. Bake the Pinwheels:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the pinwheels, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and heated through. Get ready for that amazing aroma to fill your kitchen!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute. If you’d like, garnish with a bit more chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy these warm, and watch them disappear!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the rest of the ingredients. It will add even more flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, you can eat them cold or reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to warm them up.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortillas to keep the recipe gluten-free. You won’t sacrifice any taste, and they’ll be just as delicious!
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
The beauty of pinwheels is their versatility! Feel free to get creative—try adding chopped veggies, different cheeses, or even a spicy chipotle sauce for a kick! The choice is yours.
