These Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! They are filled with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
Perfect for parties or a quick lunch, I love how easy they are to make. Just roll, slice, and enjoy with friends—who can resist that yummy combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large tortillas work best for rolling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or spinach tortillas for extra flavor and nutrients.
Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, substitute with a plant-based chicken or extra veggies like bell peppers.
Bacon: Standard bacon adds a great crunch, but feel free to try turkey bacon for a leaner choice, or omit it for a vegetarian version. Smoked bacon adds a nice flavor too!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides a creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. They make a healthier dip too!
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing can enhance flavor. If you want to avoid dairy, look for vegan ranch dressings available in stores.
Why Is Rolling the Tortilla the Right Way So Important?
Rolling the tortilla tightly ensures your pinwheels hold together perfectly. Here’s how to do it right:
- After spreading the cream cheese mixture, let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften the tortilla slightly.
- Start rolling from one edge, keeping the filling tight inside as you go to avoid gaps.
- Use a sharp knife to slice them cleanly after chilling. This helps keep everything neat and tidy!
Chilling the rolled pinwheels allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to cut. These tips will help you get those picture-perfect pinwheels every time!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced or shredded
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to make these delicious pinwheels that are perfect for snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. When it’s cool, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese and Ranch:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Use a spoon or a hand mixer to blend the two together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the tasty filling for your pinwheels!
3. Assemble Your Tortillas:
Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface or plate. This is where all the magic happens! Spread the cream cheese and ranch mixture evenly across each tortilla, making sure to cover the entire area.
4. Add the Filling:
Once the tortillas are covered with the cream cheese mix, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Then, layer the cooked chicken slices evenly across the cheese. Follow up with the crumbled bacon and any optional herbs. Don’t forget to season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper if you like!
5. Roll Them Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll each tortilla into a log shape, keeping the filling tight inside. Don’t rush this step; a tight roll will result in beautiful pinwheels!
6. Chill Out:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and help them hold their shape. Let them chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is important as it makes slicing easier!
7. Slice and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, remove the pinwheels from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them on a serving platter and enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a delicious snack at home!
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are not only easy to make, but they also pack a flavor punch that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for These Pinwheels?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Just shred the chicken before adding it to the tortillas for a quick and easy option!
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until you’re ready to slice and serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, simply slice and serve chilled or let them come to room temperature.
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Definitely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or even skip it altogether for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra veggies for crunch, like bell peppers or cucumbers.
