Crack Chicken Pinwheels with Bacon, Ranch, and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a delicious and easy appetizer that combines creamy ranch-flavored chicken with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect for parties or a savory snack, these pinwheels are sure to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup chicken (cooked and shredded)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3/4 cup bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced thin)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 4 tortillas (burrito size)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Step 2: Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl and mash and stir the mixture until fully combined and creamy.
- Step 3: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread one-quarter of the mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.
- Step 4: Carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Step 5: Place the rolled tortillas on a platter, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
- Step 6: Remove from the refrigerator and slice each roll into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pinwheels. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
- Use flavored tortillas, like spinach or sun-dried tomato, for extra color and taste.
- Substitute ranch seasoning with your favorite spice blend for a unique twist.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Try using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Storage
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid freezing as the cream cheese filling may change texture when thawed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time since it’s already cooked and flavorful.
Can these pinwheels be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the pinwheels, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and serving.
Print
Crack Chicken Pinwheels with Bacon, Ranch, and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 pinwheels (6 slices per tortilla) 1x
Description
These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or snack time. Made with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and ranch seasoning, all rolled up in soft tortillas and chilled to set. Easy to prepare and packed with savory flavors, these pinwheels offer a creamy, cheesy, and smoky bite in every slice.
Ingredients
Filling
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
Assembly
- 4 burrito-size tortillas
Instructions
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Mix Together: Mash and stir the ingredients until they are fully combined and evenly mixed to create a creamy filling.
- Spread Filling on Tortillas: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface, then evenly spread one-quarter of the cream cheese mixture over the tortilla, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Roll the Tortillas: Carefully roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays evenly distributed inside. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down on a platter.
- Chill to Set: Cover the rolled tortillas with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to firm up and make slicing easier.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the tortillas from the refrigerator and slice into 1 to 1.5-inch pinwheel slices. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use fully cooked and shredded chicken such as rotisserie or leftover chicken breast.
- Feel free to substitute ranch seasoning mix with your favorite ranch dressing powder or make your own blend.
- These pinwheels are best served chilled but can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling mix.
- If tortillas are too thick, consider warming them slightly for easier rolling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crack chicken pinwheels, bacon ranch pinwheels, chicken appetizer, easy party snacks, no-cook appetizers
