These Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are packed with tasty flavors and are super fun to eat! With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch rolling together in a soft tortilla, what’s not to love?
They’re perfect for game day or a quick snack. I always make a little extra because they disappear fast! Just roll, slice, and enjoy—so easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas provide a soft wrap for these pinwheels. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try whole wheat or spinach tortillas. Gluten-free tortillas can also be a great alternative!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for convenience. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just drain well if using canned!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you’re keeping it healthier, turkey bacon is a good option. For a vegetarian twist, consider using tempeh bacon or omit it entirely.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a creamy base. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for vegan pinwheels.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing is easy to make with yogurt, garlic, and herbs. For a spicy kick, try adding a bit of buffalo sauce to the dressing!
How Can You Make the Perfect Roll for Your Pinwheels?
Rolling your pinwheels tightly is key to preventing mess and ensuring every bite has the same great flavor. Here are some tips:
- Start at one edge of the tortilla and roll it tightly, avoiding gaps.
- Use the palm of your hands to help guide the roll without squishing the filling out.
- Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap before refrigerating; this helps it hold its shape.
- Chill for at least one hour—this makes slicing easier and helps the flavors meld.
When slicing, use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to keep everything intact. Enjoy your delicious pinwheels with family and friends!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: chopped chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of chilling time. Altogether, you’ll have these tasty pinwheels ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for planning ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, take the softened cream cheese and mix it together with the ranch dressing, shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and parsley. Stir well until everything is nicely blended together.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
Grab your flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface like a cutting board or countertop. This is where all the yummy filling will go!
3. Spread the Filling:
Take your cream cheese mixture and evenly spread it across each tortilla. Make sure to cover the surface, but remember to leave a small border around the edges so it won’t spill out when you roll them.
4. Add the Bacon:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla. This will give your pinwheels that delicious crunch and flavor!
5. Roll Up the Tortillas:
Starting from one edge of the tortilla, tightly roll it up into a log shape. Try to keep it as tight as possible without squishing the filling out of the sides.
6. Chill the Rolls:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes slicing them much easier.
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
After chilling, unwrap each roll and use a sharp knife to slice each one into 1-inch thick pinwheel pieces. The filling should hold nicely together!
8. Arrange and Garnish:
Place your beautiful pinwheels on a serving platter. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional parsley or chopped chives over the top for garnish.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
These pinwheels can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making them a fantastic appetizer or snack for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy ranch, savory chicken, and crispy bacon!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for large flour tortillas, you can use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a great snack or lunch option!
Can I Make These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes, you can make these pinwheels a day ahead of time! Just prepare them as instructed, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. They’ll be ready to serve when you are!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want to skip the bacon, try using turkey bacon for a lighter option or substitute with crumbled vegetarian bacon. You can also omit it entirely and add extra veggies for crunch!
