Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack, perfect for parties, picnics, or even meal prep! Combining savory chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch, and cheddar cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, they’re flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Prepare the filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Spread the filling:
Lay out the flour tortillas on a flat surface. Spread an even layer of the chicken bacon ranch mixture over each tortilla, leaving about an inch border around the edges to make rolling easier.
3. Roll up the tortillas:
Starting at one end, tightly roll up each tortilla to keep the filling secure inside. Once rolled, wrap each tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help firm them up for easier slicing.
4. Slice into pinwheels:
After chilling, remove the plastic wrap and use a sharp knife to slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pinwheels.
5. Serve and enjoy:
Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate them until ready to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
- Use rotisserie chicken: It’s a convenient option and adds extra flavor.
- Crispy bacon is key: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy for the best texture.
- Soften cream cheese properly: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- Fresh herbs for flavor: Fresh chives or parsley can add a pop of freshness to the filling.
- Chill for easy slicing: Refrigerating the rolled tortillas makes them firmer and easier to cut into neat pinwheels.
- Use large tortillas: Larger tortillas hold more filling and create more pinwheels per roll.
- Double wrap if transporting: For picnics or potlucks, wrap the pinwheels tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.
- Add vegetables: Add finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added color and crunch.
- Customize the cheese: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- Make ahead: These pinwheels can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making them perfect for party prep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve. - What type of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie chicken works well, but any cooked, shredded chicken will do. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with your favorite cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack. - How long can I store the pinwheels?
These pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the pinwheels?
It’s not recommended to freeze them, as the cream cheese and tortillas may not hold up well after thawing. - What else can I add to the filling?
You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or olives for extra flavor and texture. - What type of tortillas should I use?
Flour tortillas are ideal because they roll up easily and hold the filling well. - How do I keep the tortillas from unrolling?
Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating them helps the tortillas keep their shape. - Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. - What if I don’t have ranch dressing?
You can make a quick homemade ranch by mixing sour cream, mayonnaise, and dry ranch seasoning. - Are these pinwheels gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and check the other ingredients for gluten. - Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese and cheese to lighten up the recipe. - What’s the best way to serve these pinwheels?
They’re great as an appetizer, snack, or even as a light lunch. - Can I add seasoning to the filling?
Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor. - How many pinwheels does this recipe make?
Each tortilla yields about 6-8 pinwheels, depending on how thick you slice them. - Can I serve them warm?
Pinwheels are best served chilled, but you can warm them slightly if preferred. - How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
Chilling the pinwheels before slicing helps prevent them from getting soggy. - Can I add hot sauce to the filling?
Yes, a bit of hot sauce can add a nice kick to the pinwheels. - What can I serve alongside these pinwheels?
They pair well with fresh fruit, veggies, chips, or a side salad. - Can I serve these for breakfast?
Yes! You can add scrambled eggs to the filling for a fun breakfast version
