Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are irresistible appetizers that combine the flavors of creamy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning rolled up in a soft tortilla. These bite-sized pinwheels are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make snack.
Why Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and convenient. They can be made ahead of time and served as a tasty appetizer or snack, making them ideal for entertaining. Plus, they are easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
How to Make Crack Chicken Pinwheels
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with cream cheese, crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, minced chives, and ranch seasoning. Mash the mixture together with a fork until well combined.
- Assemble the Pinwheels: Divide the chicken mixture evenly between the two tortillas, spreading it out to the edges of each tortilla. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture on each tortilla.
- Roll Up the Pinwheels: Roll up each tortilla tightly to form a log, enclosing the filling. Use a sharp knife to trim the edges of the tortillas, then slice each rolled tortilla into 5 pieces, creating neat pinwheels.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Arrange the pinwheels in the air fryer basket that has been spritzed with oil spray or lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are in an even layer and not touching each other. Cook the pinwheels in the air fryer at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the crack chicken pinwheels from the air fryer and serve them immediately. These savory delights are best enjoyed warm, straight from the air fryer.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are delicious on their own but can be served with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor. Consider pairing them with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to party platters alongside other appetizers and finger foods.
Storage Information
Any leftover Crack Chicken Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer or oven until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the tortillas soggy.
Some Techniques or Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add additional ingredients to the filling, such as diced jalapenos, green onions, or shredded pepper jack cheese.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the pinwheels in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- To make the pinwheels ahead of time, assemble them as directed but don’t slice them into pieces. Wrap the whole rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to cook. Slice and cook the pinwheels just before serving for the freshest results.
FAQs about Crack Chicken Pinwheels
- Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and use it as directed in the filling mixture. It adds an extra depth of flavor and makes use of leftovers.
- Can I freeze Crack Chicken Pinwheels? While you can freeze the assembled pinwheels before cooking them, the texture of the tortillas may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to cook them fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This makes them a convenient option for parties and gatherings. Just be sure to slice and cook them just before serving for the freshest results.
Recipe Card
Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Equipment
- Bowl
- Fork
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon minced chives
- 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning
- 2 (8-10 inch) flour tortillas
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, bacon, mayonnaise, chives, and ranch seasoning. Mash the mixture together with a fork until well combined.
- Divide the mixture evenly between the two tortillas and spread it out to the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each tortilla, then roll them up tightly.
- Use a sharp knife to trim the edges of the tortillas, then slice each rolled tortilla into 5 pieces.
- Arrange the pinwheels in an air fryer basket that has been spritzed with oil spray or lined with parchment paper in an even layer.
- Cook the pinwheels in the air fryer at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious crack chicken pinwheels!
