These Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! They’re made with creamy buffalo chicken filling wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfect for parties or game days!
I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always disappear fast! Plus, they pack a spicy kick that gets everyone buzzing! What’s your secret to not finishing them all at once? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: This is the main protein in your pinwheels. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or even leftover chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try replacing it with shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a fun twist.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This provides the signature kick! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you need a milder option, use a mix of hot sauce and a little honey or barbecue sauce to balance it out.
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess. While I love classic cream cheese, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute. Just note, it will change the texture slightly but still keeps it delicious!
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, but any shredded cheese works! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice twist, too.
Blue Cheese: This is optional, but I find it adds a lovely tang. If you’re not a fan, feel free to increase the cheddar or use feta cheese instead for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Perfect Rolling Technique for Pinwheels?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is key to keep the filling inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use fresh tortillas for flexibility. If they’re a bit stiff, warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Spread the filling evenly over the tortillas; this helps prevent lumps and makes rolling easier.
- Start rolling tightly from one edge, ensuring you keep the filling in as you go. A gentle pull of the tortilla helps.
- After you roll, you can wrap it in plastic wrap for 30 minutes. This helps it hold its shape when cutting into pinwheels.
Give it a try, and don’t worry if they aren’t perfect on the first go—practice makes it easier!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Wrap:
- 4 large flour tortillas
For Dipping (Optional):
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional, for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation, and if you choose to chill them, let them sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish, depending on how long you want to chill them!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a medium bowl, take your cooked shredded chicken and pour in the buffalo wing sauce. Mix it thoroughly until all the chicken is coated evenly. This will give your pinwheels that delicious spicy kick!
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In another larger bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a lovely, smooth blend.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, gently fold the buffalo chicken mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until they are completely combined. Next, toss in the chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor and texture.
4. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface, like a cutting board or countertop. Divide the buffalo chicken mixture evenly among the four tortillas. Spread the mixture evenly over each tortilla, covering the whole surface for a delicious bite every time!
5. Roll Up Your Pinwheels:
Starting from one edge of the tortilla, tightly roll it up into a log shape. Make sure to roll it as tightly as possible to keep the filling inside. Repeat with all tortillas.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1 to 1.5-inch pinwheel pieces. The size can be adjusted based on your preference!
7. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the pinwheels on a serving platter. Garnish with the extra crumbled blue cheese and chopped green onions to make them look extra special.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty pinwheels immediately or pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up a bit. If you like, offer ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo wing sauce as instructed. It adds wonderful flavor with minimal effort!
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Wing Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute with your favorite hot sauce mixed with a bit of melted butter for a similar flavor. Alternatively, mix hot sauce with ranch dressing for a milder, creamy option.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them well to keep them fresh. They also taste great chilled!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels a few hours in advance. Just keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep them fresh until you’re ready to serve!
