Crack Chicken Pinwheels are fun and tasty bites filled with creamy chicken, cheese, and crunchy bacon, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They make a perfect snack or party treat!
These pinwheels are so easy to make, it’s like magic! I love how they disappear in no time at parties. Everyone just can’t resist the creamy goodness. Give them a try—you’ll be a star!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the star here. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken. If you need a vegetarian option, consider using canned chickpeas or cooked mushrooms for a different texture but similar flavor.
Cream Cheese: This gives the pinwheels their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Both will work well, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor. You can swap it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. Each will change the taste a bit, but they’ll keep that cheesy goodness!
Bacon: Bacon brings delicious crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon or vegan bacon are excellent alternatives. If you want a plant-based option, you could use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the flavor.
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are traditional, but you can use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a nutritious twist. For gluten-free options, check out corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps!
How Can I Ensure My Pinwheels Roll Up Perfectly?
Rolling pinwheels can be tricky but following a few tips helps. First, make sure your tortillas are soft and pliable. If they’re too stiff, warm them for a few seconds in the microwave or on a skillet.
- Spread the filling evenly and avoid overloading it; too much filling makes rolling hard.
- Start rolling from one edge and use your fingers to keep the filling inside as you go.
- Once rolled, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for better slicing. This helps them firm up!
- When slicing, use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and wipe it off between slices for neat pinwheels.
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Rolling:
- 6 large flour tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour to chill in the fridge. Just mix your filling, roll it up, and let it set. Easy and perfect for parties or snack time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This mixture is the heart of your pinwheels—delicious!
2. Prepare the Tortilla:
Take one large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. It helps to work on a cutting board or a clean counter. This is where the magic happens!
3. Spread the Filling:
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread an even layer of your chicken and cheese mixture over the entire tortilla. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space at the edges so it doesn’t spill out when you roll it. The filling should cover the surface evenly for great flavor in every bite.
4. Roll It Up:
Carefully start rolling the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other. As you roll, use your fingers to keep the filling inside. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—just roll it as tight as you can without tearing the tortilla!
5. Repeat:
Continue making pinwheels by repeating the same process with the remaining tortillas and filling mixture. You’ll have a lot of tasty rolls to share!
6. Chill and Set:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap. This helps them keep their shape while they chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This step is super important and makes slicing easier later on.
7. Slice and Serve:
Once the pinwheels have set, unwrap them and use a sharp knife to cut each roll into 1-inch pieces. Try to make clean cuts for beautiful slices! Arrange your pinwheels on a serving plate and, if you like, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or parsley on top to make them look extra fancy.
8. Enjoy!
These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are best served chilled or at room temperature. They make a creamy, savory snack or appetizer that everyone will love. Dig in and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor. Just shred or chop it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or mushrooms, and use vegetarian bacon or simply omit the bacon. You can also add in extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, it’s best to slice them just before serving. If they seem a bit dried out, consider adding a drizzle of ranch or a creamy dressing before enjoying!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance. Just slice them and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. They’re perfect for parties and make-ahead meals!