Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat! These wraps are filled with creamy chicken, cheese, and lots of flavor, making them so addictive you’ll want them for every meal!
Making these pinwheels is a breeze—just mix, spread, roll, and slice! I love serving them at parties, and they vanish every time. Trust me, nobody can resist a good pinwheel! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds richness and a creamy texture. If dairy is a concern, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. I’ve found that it still creates a similar consistency!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well!
Bacon: Bacon brings a crispy, savory flavor. For a lighter option, you could use turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian version, opt for crispy veggie bacon or just skip it altogether.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This blend gives a fantastic flavor boost. If you’re out of ranch seasoning, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, chives, and garlic powder for a similar taste.
How Do I Roll Tortillas Without Cracking?
Rolling tortillas can sometimes be tricky. The key is to soften them enough to prevent cracking. Here’s how:
- Warming: Place tortillas on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften.
- Using Fresh Tortillas: If possible, use fresh tortillas as they are typically more pliable.
- Adjust Filling: Don’t overload your tortillas; spread a thin layer of filling to make rolling easier.
With these tips, your pinwheels will roll up perfectly and stay intact. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 4 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 to 18 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to enjoy these delightful pinwheels—from mixing ingredients to serving them fresh from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Alternatively, you can lightly grease a muffin tin if you want to bake the pinwheels upright for a fun presentation.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning mix, and chopped parsley. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined and creamy. This filling is the star of the show!
3. Prepare the Tortillas
Take one flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Using a spatula, spread about one-quarter of the creamy chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spilling out when you roll it.
4. Roll It Up
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape, making sure it’s snug but not too tight to avoid any cracking. The filling should stay securely inside!
5. Slice the Pinwheels
Once the tortilla is rolled, grab a sharp knife and cut the rolled tortilla into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pinwheels. Place the pinwheels cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, or you can stand them up in a greased muffin tin for an adorable presentation.
6. Bake and Enjoy!
Now, pop the pinwheels in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Let Cool and Garnish
Once they’re baked, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
8. Serve Warm
Enjoy these creamy, cheesy, and bacon-studded Crack Chicken Pinwheels warm as a delicious appetizer or snack! Share with friends or savor them all to yourself—the choice is yours!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can substitute it with mozzarella for a milder taste, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep the overall quantity the same for the best texture!
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pinwheel filling and spread it on the tortillas a few hours in advance. Simply cover the rolled pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them. Just remember to slice and bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Can I Freeze Leftover Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the pinwheels! Just make sure they are fully cooled first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake frozen pinwheels at 375°F (about 20-25 minutes) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Crack Chicken Pinwheels?
These pinwheels are perfect on their own, but you can enhance your spread with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy aioli. Pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable platter for a complete appetizer table!
