These Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are a fantastic snack or meal option! They are made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a zesty ranch spread, all rolled up in a tortilla.
Perfect for parties or a quick lunch, I can’t resist munching on these delightful bites. They disappear faster than I can make them—trust me, they’re a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: I recommend using large flour tortillas for their flexibility, but whole wheat or spinach tortillas can add a nice twist and more nutrients if you prefer. Gluten-free tortillas work too if you need a gluten-free option!
Chicken: Leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. If you want a lighter flavor, you can substitute it with shredded turkey, or for a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or a veggie chicken product.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you want to make it healthier, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using crispy fried onions or smoked tempeh for that savory bite.
Cream Cheese: This gives pinwheels a creamy base. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese. Vegan cream cheese is also a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
Ranch Dressing: You can use homemade ranch dressing or different flavors like blue cheese or caesar dressing if you’re looking to switch things up. Just make sure the consistency is similar to ranch.
How Do You Roll the Perfect Pinwheel?
Rolling the pinwheels tightly is key for them to hold together nicely. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Spread a thin layer of the filling over the tortilla, avoiding the edges.
- Start at one side and roll tightly, keeping the pressure even as you go to prevent gaps.
- Once rolled, use a sharp knife and slice into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. A serrated knife can help if the filling is thick.
Chilling the rolled pinwheels for a bit before slicing helps them firm up. This makes them easier to cut and gives the flavors a chance to blend together. Enjoy your delicious creations!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried ranch seasoning mix)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh arugula or lettuce for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an optional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing until they’re well blended and smooth. If you’re using dried ranch seasoning instead of fresh parsley, add it at this stage for flavor.
2. Add Fillings:
Next, incorporate the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley into the cream cheese mixture. If you’re using green onions, add those too. Stir everything together until it’s all evenly mixed. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
3. Spread the Mixture on Tortillas:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Use about a quarter of the chicken bacon ranch mixture and spread it evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges so it doesn’t ooze out when you roll it.
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure to keep it as tight as possible without tearing the tortilla for the best shape.
5. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortilla into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pinwheels. You can use a serrated knife for easier cutting if the filling is thick.
6. Arrange and Serve:
Place all your beautiful pinwheels on a serving plate, and if you’d like, garnish them with fresh arugula or lettuce for a pop of color. They can be served immediately, or you can cover them and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help them set up a bit.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels as a fun appetizer, a quick snack, or even a light meal! Feel free to modify the filling with your favorite veggies or by trying different cheeses for added flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! While large flour tortillas work best, you can use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas based on your preference or dietary needs. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may slightly change!
How Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pinwheels a few hours in advance. After slicing them, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you want to skip the chicken, you can use shredded turkey or even cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just make sure the substitution has a similar texture for a satisfying bite!
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re great cold, but you can also reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm!
