These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are the ultimate game-day snack, combining the irresistible flavors of ranch, bacon, and cheddar in one easy bite. Whether you are hosting a football party or looking for a simple lunch, these creamy and savory rolls are guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love these Crack Chicken Pinwheels because they are incredibly simple to prepare using shortcut ingredients like rotisserie chicken and precooked bacon. They are the perfect make-ahead appetizer, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of creamy cheese, salty bacon, and zesty ranch creates a flavor profile that is truly addictive and versatile enough for any occasion.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Pinwheels
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 tablespoons ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 3/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1 cup cooked chopped chicken
- 4 or 5 large burrito-sized tortillas (10-inch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the ranch dressing powder, shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of milk, chopped bacon, and chopped chicken. Stir until the mixture is well combined. If the mixture feels too stiff to spread, add an additional tablespoon of milk.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture evenly across the surface, reaching close to the edges.
- Roll the tortilla up gently but tightly. This ensures the filling stays in place and the pinwheels maintain their circular shape when sliced.
- Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the cream cheese to firm up, making the slicing process much easier.
- Once chilled, use a sharp serrated knife to trim off the uneven ends of the tortilla rolls. Slice the remaining roll into 1-inch thick pieces and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for the Best Pinwheels
To make these Crack Chicken Pinwheels even faster, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and high-quality precooked bacon bits. For the cleanest slices, always use a sharp serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion so you do not squish the tortillas or force the filling out the sides. If you are looking for a lighter version, you can easily substitute low-fat cream cheese, turkey bacon, and whole-wheat tortillas. Always ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in your filling.
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the ranch dressing powder, shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of milk, chopped bacon, and chopped chicken. Stir until the mixture is well combined. If the mixture feels too stiff to spread, add an additional tablespoon of milk.1 package cream cheese, 1.5 tablespoons ranch dressing mix, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoons milk, 0.75 cup chopped cooked bacon, 1 cup cooked chopped chicken
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean work surface. Spread approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture evenly across the surface, reaching close to the edges.5 large burrito-sized tortillas
- Roll the tortilla up gently but tightly. This ensures the filling stays in place and the pinwheels maintain their circular shape when sliced.
- Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the cream cheese to firm up, making the slicing process much easier.
- Once chilled, use a sharp serrated knife to trim off the uneven ends of the tortilla rolls. Slice the remaining roll into 1-inch thick pieces and serve immediately.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crack Chicken Pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, these are excellent for meal prep. You can roll them up and keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator overnight. For the best presentation, slice them just before you are ready to serve.
How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
The key to preventing sogginess is to avoid adding too much milk to the mixture. Chilling the rolls before slicing also helps set the filling so it does not moisture the tortilla too quickly. If making them a day in advance, keep them wrapped whole and slice them right before the party.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any remaining pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because they contain dairy and chicken, they should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional for the “crack chicken” flavor profile, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy Pepper Jack would work beautifully in this recipe to give it a different kick.