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Basic Crack Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–5 large flour tortillas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cream cheese
- Shredded chicken
- Shredded cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 2: Spread the Filling
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the chicken mixture over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 3: Roll Tightly
Starting from one side, roll the tortilla tightly into a log. The tighter the roll, the cleaner the pinwheels will slice.
Step 4: Chill
Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (or overnight).
Chilling helps:
- Firm up the filling
- Keep the pinwheels from falling apart
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Remove plastic wrap. Using a sharp knife, slice into 1-inch pieces.
Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
Use Softened Cream Cheese
Cold cream cheese won’t spread evenly and can tear the tortilla.
Don’t Overfill
Too much filling makes rolling difficult and messy.
Chill Before Slicing
This is the secret to clean, beautiful swirls.
Wipe the Knife Between Cuts
Keeps the slices neat and uniform.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
- Prepare rolls up to 24 hours in advance
- Keep wrapped tightly in the fridge
- Slice just before serving
Storage
- Store sliced pinwheels in an airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
These do not freeze well due to the cream cheese texture.
Delicious Variations to Try
1. Spicy Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Add:
- Hot sauce
- Crushed red pepper
- Pepper jack cheese
Perfect for heat lovers.
2. Ranch-Style Pinwheels
Add:
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Chopped fresh herbs
A classic flavor twist.
3. Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Mix in:
- Buffalo sauce
- Blue cheese or extra cheddar
Serve with celery sticks for a party spread.
4. Veggie-Loaded Pinwheels
Add finely chopped:
- Bell peppers
- Green onions
- Spinach
Adds color and crunch.
5. Low-Carb Version
Skip tortillas and:
- Spread filling on lettuce leaves
- Roll and secure with toothpicks
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