These BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are fun, tasty bites your family will love! Rolled up with shredded chicken, creamy cheddar, and zesty BBQ sauce, they pack a punch of flavor.
Seriously, what’s better than a snack that can double as dinner? I often whip these up for parties or game nights—everyone digs in, and there’s never a crumb left behind!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for the best texture. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. If you need a vegetarian option, try replacing it with shredded jackfruit for a similar texture!
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works well, but homemade can take it up a notch. If you’re looking for a tangier flavor, try mixing in a bit of apple cider vinegar or honey mustard.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives these pinwheels a nice sharpness. You could swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick! Vegan cheese is also an option if you need a dairy-free version.
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are standard, but you can use whole wheat or even corn tortillas if gluten is a concern. Just remember, corn tortillas may need to be warmed a bit before rolling to prevent cracking.
Cilantro/Parsley: This is mainly for garnish. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use green onions for a fresh twist.
How Do I Roll and Cut Perfect Pinwheels?
Rolling pinwheels can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! Start by making sure your tortillas are pliable—warm them briefly if needed. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Spread your filling evenly to the edges, allowing it to stick when you roll.
- Start rolling tightly from one end, ensuring it stays even as you go. Imagine it as rolling a burrito!
- Once rolled, gently press the seam down to keep everything in place.
- Use a sharp knife to slice, wiping the knife between cuts for cleaner edges.
Following these steps will help you create perfectly shaped pinwheels ready for your next gathering!
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup cream cheese or ranch dressing for spreading (adds creaminess)
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe will take you about 20 minutes to prepare and assemble. If you choose to warm the pinwheels, add another 10-12 minutes for baking. Altogether, you can have these tasty snacks ready in around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix the cooked, shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Stir well until all the chicken is coated evenly with the sauce. This is where all the flavor starts!
2. (Optional) Spread Creaminess:
If you’re using cream cheese or ranch dressing, take each tortilla and spread a thin layer over it. This adds a nice creamy texture and helps the filling stick better.
3. Fill the Tortillas:
Once the tortillas are prepped, spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly across each one, making sure to leave a little space at the edges. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken.
4. Roll It Up:
Start at one edge of the tortilla and carefully roll it up tightly into a log shape. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight, as you want the filling to stay inside.
5. Slice into Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortillas into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should see beautiful layers of chicken and cheese! Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner slices.
6. Arranging and Serving:
You can serve the pinwheels immediately, or if you prefer them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Add a Fresh Touch:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. These pinwheels are perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or an easy meal option!
Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels and the smiles they’ll bring to your table!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and mix with the BBQ sauce, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. They can be sliced and served chilled, or warmed in the oven just before serving!
What If I Don’t Have Tortillas?
No problem! You can use flatbreads, wraps, or even pita pockets as a substitute. Just make sure whatever you use is pliable enough to roll without tearing.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.