These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! Filled with creamy chicken, cheese, and tasty spices, they’re rolled up in a soft tortilla.
Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in, I can’t resist these yummy bites. They disappear so fast that I always make an extra batch—who doesn’t love a crowd-pleaser? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a big time-saver and adds great flavor. If you want a lighter option, use shredded turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is a must for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter substitute, try using Greek yogurt or a reduced-fat cream cheese. Just watch out for the tangy flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese is a great option for dairy-free diets.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch. If you prefer to skip meat, try using crispy chickpeas or sun-dried tomatoes for a boost of flavor without the bacon. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter dish.
Flour Tortillas: While large flour tortillas work best, whole wheat tortillas provide a healthier alternative. Corn tortillas are gluten-free but can be a bit delicate for rolling.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pinwheel Roll?
Rolling your pinwheels tightly helps keep them together, so they don’t fall apart when you slice them. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use room temperature tortillas so they don’t crack while rolling. If they are cold, microwave each tortilla for about 10 seconds.
- Spread the mixture evenly all the way to the edges but don’t overfill. Leave some space to make rolling easier.
- Start from one end and roll tightly, kind of like a burrito. The tighter the roll, the better the pinwheels will hold together!
- A sharp knife is key for slicing. Clean it between slices for neat edges.
These tips will help you create beautiful and delicious pinwheels every time!
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, finely chopped)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- Optional: Ranch or spicy ranch dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-18 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 30 minutes to create these tasty pinwheels. Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pinwheels will bake evenly. You can also lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay out the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Make sure you have enough room to roll. Evenly spread the creamy chicken mixture over each tortilla, covering as much of the surface as you can, but remember to leave a little border all around the edges.
4. Roll Them Up:
Now comes the fun part! Starting at one end, tightly roll each tortilla up into a log shape. Try to keep it as tight as possible without squishing the filling out.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1 to 1½-inch pinwheels. This will give you nice bite-sized pieces that are perfect for sharing.
6. Bake the Pinwheels:
Place your pinwheels flat on the prepared baking sheet, with the cut side facing up. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce on the side for a tasty treat!
Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken Pinwheels as a perfect appetizer or snack anytime! They’re always a hit! 🍽️
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding.
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Spicy?
If you’re looking to add a kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the filling. You can also use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra spice!
Can I Prepare These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the pinwheels, slice them, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.