Crack Chicken Pinwheels are fun and tasty bites made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, all wrapped in a tortilla. They’re creamy, zesty, and oh-so-addictive!
You won’t be able to have just one—trust me! I love serving these at parties or just enjoying them as a snack while binge-watching my favorite shows. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here for quick preparation. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use shredded turkey instead. You can also cook your own chicken breasts in advance.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese. It has less fat but still gives that creamy texture. If you’re vegan, a plant-based cream cheese can work perfectly as a substitute.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you don’t have cheddar, mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist. For a dairy-free option, choose a non-dairy cheese substitute.
Cooked Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor. You could use turkey bacon for a leaner version or even crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Ranch Seasoning: If you don’t have ranch seasoning, mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder can create a similar flavor. Homemade ranch dressing can also be used in place of the seasoning mix.
How Do I Roll the Tortillas Without Them Breaking?
Rolling the tortillas can be tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll have perfect pinwheels every time. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure your tortillas are at room temperature. Cold tortillas are more likely to crack. You can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
- Spread the mixture evenly and avoid overfilling your tortillas. If the filling spills out, it’ll make rolling difficult.
- When rolling, start from one edge and keep the roll as tight as possible without forcing it. A tight roll ensures the pinwheels stay together.
- After slicing, if you find any breaks, face them downward on the platter. They’ll still look great!
Enjoy making these fun and tasty bites! They’re perfect for gatherings or as a quick snack!
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be enjoyed immediately or refrigerated for a chilled delight. All in all, you’ll be enjoying these delicious pinwheels in about 30 minutes, including chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by taking a medium-sized bowl and adding in the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix everything together with a spatula or a fork until all the ingredients are well combined and creamy.
2. Spread the Mixture:
Take a large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface or cutting board. Use a spatula to spread around 1/4 of the chicken filling evenly across the tortilla, leaving about half an inch of space along the edges so it doesn’t overflow when you roll it up.
3. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, ensuring that you keep the filling inside. Make sure to keep it snug but not too tight, as that might cause it to burst.
4. Slice the Pinwheels:
Once your tortilla is rolled, use a sharp knife to slice it into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You can adjust the thickness based on your preference, but 1-inch works well for bite-sized pieces!
5. Arrange and Serve:
Place all the pinwheels on a serving platter. You can serve them right away or pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you like them chilled. If desired, sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley on top for a touch of color.
Enjoy these delicious, creamy, and flavorful Crack Chicken Pinwheels as an appetizer or snack! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even turkey works great. Just be sure to shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Spice to your taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the microwave!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance. Just roll them up, slice, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!