Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Highlighted under: Treats & Confections
I love making Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels for game day or casual gatherings! The combination of spicy shredded chicken and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in a tortilla never fails to please a crowd. They’re incredibly easy to assemble ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, these pinwheels can be customized with various toppings or spices, making them perfect for any palate. Whether as an appetizer or a quick snack, these pinwheels are always a hit!
When I first discovered the magic of Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they are. The key is to use shredded chicken tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce combined with cream cheese and ranch dressing, which creates a delightful balance. I’ve experimented with flavors by adding celery and blue cheese crumbles, giving the pinwheels extra crunch and depth. Every time I'm asked for the recipe, I can’t help but smile!
These pinwheels work beautifully for parties because they can be made in advance and kept in the fridge. I recommend slicing them just before serving to maintain the fresh look and texture. Remember, the longer you let them sit, the more the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Spicy and tangy flavor that packs a punch
- Creamy texture from ranch dressing complements the chicken
- Easy to prepare and serves a crowd effortlessly
The Role of Ingredients
In this Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels recipe, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the final flavor profile. The shredded cooked chicken provides a tender and moist base, while the buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick that is emblematic of classic buffalo chicken flavors. As you mix these two, aim for a good coating of sauce that turns the chicken a vibrant orange, signaling maximum flavor infusion.
Cream cheese not only contributes to the creamy texture but also acts as a stabilizer for the filling, ensuring all the ingredients stay together inside the tortilla. The ranch dressing complements the spiciness with its coolness, balancing the heat from the buffalo sauce. Using high-quality ranch can elevate the overall flavor, so choose one that you particularly enjoy.
Assembly Techniques
When assembling the pinwheels, the technique is just as important as the ingredients. Be sure to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, right up to the edges, to create a uniform taste in every bite. I recommend using a spatula for this—it helps achieve a smooth layer without tearing the tortilla.
After layering the buffalo chicken, green onions, and cheddar cheese, start rolling the tortilla from one end tightly. This helps maintain the shape of the pinwheel during slicing. For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and cut each roll into 1-inch pieces. This ensures that each pinwheel showcases the colorful layers inside!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Instructions to Make Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Stir until well coated.
Mix Cream Cheese and Ranch
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Next, layer the buffalo chicken mixture, green onions, and cheddar cheese on top.
Roll and Slice
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly and slice them into bite-sized pinwheels. Arrange on a platter for serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pro Tips
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or substitute with a less spicy sauce. Also, feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers for added crunch.
Make-Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent option for busy days. After assembling, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent the tortillas from drying out.
If you plan to make a larger batch, you can freeze the assembled pinwheels as well. Simply slice them into pieces and lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feel free to get creative with the filling! For a milder version, you can substitute the buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or a milder hot sauce. Adding crumbled blue cheese to the mixture can also enhance the classic buffalo chicken profile. Additionally, consider including diced celery for a crunchy texture that ties back to traditional buffalo chicken dishes.
For serving, arrange the pinwheels on a platter with a bowl of additional ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. This not only adds an interactive element to your gathering but also caters to different flavor preferences. Pair these pinwheels with a refreshing vegetable platter or chips to enhance the casual snacking experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative, or you can use a dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
→ What other flavors can I add to the filling?
Feel free to experiment with diced celery, jalapeños, or even different cheeses for varied flavors.
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
I love making Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels for game day or casual gatherings! The combination of spicy shredded chicken and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in a tortilla never fails to please a crowd. They’re incredibly easy to assemble ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, these pinwheels can be customized with various toppings or spices, making them perfect for any palate. Whether as an appetizer or a quick snack, these pinwheels are always a hit!
What You'll Need
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Stir until well coated.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Next, layer the buffalo chicken mixture, green onions, and cheddar cheese on top.
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly and slice them into bite-sized pinwheels. Arrange on a platter for serving.
Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Extra Tips
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or substitute with a less spicy sauce. Also, feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers for added crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g