Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a delicious, spicy appetizer that’s ideal for parties, game-day spreads, or even quick snacks. These pinwheels pack a punch with the bold flavors of Buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and creamy cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—it takes only a few minutes to prep but delivers big on flavor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create these pinwheels, including tips on assembly, serving suggestions, and even a baked variation. We’ll also cover common questions to help you customize the recipe to your liking.

What You Need to Make Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Here are the essential ingredients to make this tasty appetizer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded chicken (use rotisserie or freshly cooked)
• ¼ cup Buffalo sauce
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Optional: Green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

1. Prepare the Filling

Start by mixing the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, shredded chicken, and Buffalo sauce in a large bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are evenly combined.

• Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains additives that can affect texture.

2. Spread and Roll

• Lay the tortillas on a flat surface.
• Evenly spread the filling across each tortilla, ensuring the mixture is evenly distributed but leaving a small border around the edges.
• Roll the tortillas tightly into a log shape to keep the filling secure.

3. Chill Before Slicing

Refrigerate the rolled tortillas for at least 2-4 hours. This step allows the pinwheels to firm up, making them easier to slice cleanly.

• Pro Tip: If you’re preparing these ahead of time, consider freezing the pinwheels for future use.

Optional: Baked Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

If you prefer a warm option, you can create a baked version using crescent roll dough. Roll the filling inside the dough and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown. This version offers a crispy, flaky crust that complements the creamy filling.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels chilled or at room temperature. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing. For added flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or serve alongside celery and carrot sticks.
• Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pinwheels, then defrost in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives

These Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are packed with flavor but also provide flexibility for lighter alternatives:

• Swap full-fat cream cheese with a low-fat version.
• Use whole wheat tortillas for added fiber and nutrients.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese to create a lighter filling.

Each pinwheel contains roughly 71 calories, making it a relatively light snack. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your nutritional preferences without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese should I use?
Cheddar is the go-to cheese, but you can also try using Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor.

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will give you better texture and flavor. Be sure to drain canned chicken thoroughly to avoid soggy pinwheels.

Are these pinwheels spicy?
The level of heat depends on how much Buffalo sauce you use. To dial down the spiciness, use a mild Buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For more heat, add extra Buffalo sauce or even a dash of hot sauce.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Once assembled, wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before slicing.

What tortillas are best for pinwheels?
Flour tortillas work best for wrapping and holding the filling. Whole wheat or flavored tortillas like spinach can be used for a different twist.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy game-day snack, Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a fantastic option. With a balance of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them chilled, baked, or with a variety of dipping sauces, and feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste.

For more tasty appetizers and cooking tips, don’t hesitate to explore other recipes and ideas!