Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with these incredibly easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. A true sensation at any gathering, whether it’s a vibrant party, a sizzling barbecue, an intense game day, or a casual get-together with friends and family. These creamy, zesty, and utterly addictive roll-ups are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “buffalo wing.”
Why You’ll Adore These Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
These delightful Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels, also affectionately known as buffalo chicken roll-ups, offer a multitude of reasons to become your new go-to appetizer. They combine convenience with an explosion of flavor, making them ideal for any occasion.
- Effortless Preparation: In just about 20 minutes of active prep time, you can assemble these delectable treats. No complex cooking techniques or extensive culinary skills are required, making them perfect for busy hosts.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: One of the greatest advantages is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare them hours, or even a full day, in advance and keep them chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to slice and serve. This frees up your time on the day of your event, allowing you to relax and enjoy your guests.
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of cool, creamy, and tangy notes, bursting with that unmistakable spicy kick of authentic buffalo wing flavor. It’s like your favorite buffalo chicken dip, but conveniently wrapped in a portable, bite-sized package.
- Versatile Serving Option: Whether you need a quick snack, a substantial appetizer for a large gathering, or even a light lunch, these pinwheels fit the bill. Their individual portions make them easy to grab and enjoy.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact: Crafted with just a few simple, readily available ingredients, these pinwheels prove that you don’t need a pantry full of exotic items to create something truly spectacular.
If you’re looking to expand your appetizer repertoire, consider exploring other crowd-pleasing recipes such as our Oven-Baked Sliders, savory Sausage Balls, a rich Homemade Spinach Dip, or the innovative Deviled Potato Bites. Each offers a unique flavor experience, much like these incredible pinwheels.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pinwheels
Creating truly outstanding Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for selection:
- Shredded Chicken: The foundation of these pinwheels! For the best flavor and texture, we highly recommend using freshly cooked, shredded chicken. A rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is a fantastic shortcut, offering tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Alternatively, you can boil or bake chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then shred them. While canned chicken can be used in a pinch for convenience, fresh chicken will always yield a superior taste and texture that elevates the entire dish.
- Cream Cheese: This ingredient provides the essential creamy base and helps bind all the flavors together. Always opt for softened, full-fat cream cheese for the richest taste and easiest mixing. Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30-60 minutes before use. While low-fat cream cheese can be substituted, we generally don’t recommend fat-free versions as they can alter the texture and flavor significantly.
- Cheese Blend: Our recipe calls for a dynamic duo of cheeses to deliver optimal flavor and creaminess. You’ll need both shredded sharp cheddar cheese for its bold, savory notes and blue cheese crumbles to enhance that authentic buffalo flavor profile. Feel free to shred your own block of cheese for the freshest taste, or use good quality pre-shredded cheese for added convenience. The blue cheese adds a pungent, salty kick that perfectly complements the buffalo sauce, so don’t skip it if you’re a fan!
- Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show! We find that Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce delivers the classic, well-balanced heat and tang that makes these pinwheels irresistible. However, the beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to use your favorite brand of buffalo sauce, whether you prefer a milder kick or an extra fiery punch. Just ensure it’s a dedicated “wing sauce” rather than just plain hot sauce, as wing sauces typically include butter or oil for a richer, smoother consistency.
- Sour Cream: A wonderful addition that further enhances the creaminess and adds a subtle tang, balancing the richness of the cheeses and the spice of the buffalo sauce. Use full-fat sour cream for the best results, ensuring a smooth and luxurious filling.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions (especially the green tops) contribute a fresh, crisp texture and a mild, oniony flavor that brightens up the entire appetizer. They also add a lovely visual appeal. If you don’t have green onions, fresh chives can make a suitable, albeit milder, substitute.
- Flour Tortillas: The vessel for our delicious filling! You’ll need five large (typically 10-inch) flour tortillas. Flour tortillas are highly recommended over corn tortillas because their pliability and larger size make them much easier to roll tightly without cracking. This ensures your pinwheels hold their shape perfectly for slicing and serving.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Delicious Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels that will impress everyone at your next gathering.
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base. In a large mixing bowl, begin by beating the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for preventing lumps and ensuring a consistently creamy texture throughout your filling. Once smooth, fold in the crumbled blue cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed, forming a rich, tangy cheese mixture. The visual of the distinct cheese types blending together is a satisfying start to this simple recipe.
Step 2: Incorporate Chicken and Buffalo Flavor. Now it’s time to add the stars of the show! To your creamy cheese mixture, add the shredded cooked chicken breast meat. Remember, leftover rotisserie chicken works absolutely perfectly here, lending incredible flavor and tenderness. Next, stir in the thinly sliced green onions and your chosen buffalo hot sauce. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is completely coated and the vibrant orange hue of the buffalo sauce is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This ensures every pinwheel delivers that characteristic spicy kick.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels. Lay one large flour tortilla flat on a clean cutting board. Take about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the buffalo chicken filling and spread it evenly across the tortilla. Make sure to spread the mixture almost to the edges, but leave a small border (about half an inch) around the perimeter. This prevents the filling from squeezing out when you roll the tortilla. If you’re a true buffalo chicken aficionado, you might also enjoy our Oven-Baked Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wings for another spicy delight!
Step 4: Roll and Chill. Carefully and tightly roll up the tortilla, starting from one end and working your way to the other. The tighter the roll, the better your pinwheels will hold their shape when sliced. Once rolled, place the seam side down on a plate. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and buffalo chicken mixture. After all tortillas are rolled, cover the plate tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight. Chilling is a crucial step that allows the cream cheese mixture to firm up, making the pinwheels much easier to slice neatly without falling apart.
Step 5: Slice and Serve. Once thoroughly chilled, remove the rolled tortillas from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice each rolled tortilla into approximately 1-inch thick pieces. Discard the very ends if they don’t look as aesthetically pleasing or lack sufficient filling. Arrange the beautiful pinwheel slices on a serving platter or tray. For an extra layer of flavor and dipping fun, you could also serve them alongside a side of cooling Ranch dressing or a classic Blue Cheese dressing. These easy buffalo chicken roll-ups are always a hit and are sure to please any palate!
Expert Tips for Pinwheel Perfection
Achieving perfectly formed and flavorful Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels is easy with these helpful tips:
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is non-negotiable! Using softened cream cheese that’s at room temperature ensures it beats smoothly and incorporates easily with the other ingredients, preventing a lumpy or uneven filling. Plan ahead by taking it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes to an hour before you start mixing.
- Beat the Cream Cheese Well: For the smoothest possible filling, use an electric hand mixer to beat the cream cheese on its own initially. This step breaks down any stiffness and creates a wonderfully airy base, making it much easier to mix in the other cheeses, chicken, and sauce without any stubborn lumps.
- Thorough Chilling is Key: Do not rush the chilling process! The refrigeration time (at least 2 hours, ideally overnight) allows the cream cheese-based filling to firm up properly. This is absolutely essential for clean, neat slices. If you try to slice them too early, the filling will be soft, messy, and difficult to manage, potentially leading to unraveling.
- Mind the Edges: When spreading the filling onto the tortilla, always leave a small border (about 1/2 inch) around the edges. This little gap is your secret weapon against overflow. It prevents the filling from squishing out the sides when you roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring a neat and contained pinwheel.
- Chicken Choices: While store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option, freshly cooked shredded chicken breast works beautifully. To prepare chicken breasts, you can oven roast or boil them until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Ensure the chicken is shredded finely for optimal texture in the pinwheels.
- Drying Your Chicken: Before mixing, make sure your shredded chicken is relatively dry. Excess moisture, especially if you boiled the chicken, can lead to a soggy filling and make the pinwheels less enjoyable. Pat it dry with paper towels if needed.
- Emergency Toothpicks: If, despite your best efforts, some pinwheel slices seem a bit loose or want to unravel, a simple toothpick inserted through the center of each slice can work wonders to hold them together until they are devoured.
- Sharp Serrated Knife: For the cleanest cuts, use a very sharp serrated knife. The “sawing” action of a serrated blade cuts through the tortilla and filling more effectively than a smooth blade, reducing squishing and tearing.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Pinwheels
While the classic Buffalo Chicken Pinwheel recipe is undeniably delicious, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for creative customization. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Cheese Alternatives: The world of cheese offers endless possibilities! While cheddar and blue cheese are traditional, you can easily swap them out or add others. Consider Colby Jack cheese for a milder, creamier profile, Monterey Jack for excellent meltability and a subtle flavor, smoked Gouda for a richer, smoky note, or even Muenster for a buttery, mild touch. A blend of cheeses can also create a more complex flavor.
- Buffalo Sauce Spectrum: Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce is our go-to for its balanced heat, but your palate might prefer something different. Explore other commercial buffalo sauces that range from extra mild to scorching hot. For an even more personalized touch, try making your own homemade buffalo sauce, allowing you to control the exact level of spice and tang.
- Tortilla Twists: Beyond standard flour tortillas, consider using flavored tortillas for an added dimension. Spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas can introduce subtle new flavors and vibrant colors, making your pinwheels even more visually appealing. Whole-grain tortillas are also an excellent option for a slightly healthier twist without compromising texture.
- Size Matters: While 10-inch tortillas are ideal for larger pinwheels, you can certainly use smaller tortillas (e.g., 8-inch or even street taco size) if you prefer daintier, single-bite appetizers. Just remember that you’ll need more tortillas to use up all the filling, and adjust your spreading technique accordingly.
- Add a Crunch: Introduce some textural contrast and extra nutrients by finely chopping and mixing in some fresh vegetables. Finely diced celery adds a classic crunch and complements the buffalo flavor beautifully, while shredded carrots can offer a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Water chestnuts, finely chopped, also provide a satisfying crispness.
- Herbaceous Enhancements: Beyond green onions, fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped, can add a burst of freshness. Dill can also pair surprisingly well with the creamy, tangy flavors.
- Smoky Undertones: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can impart a subtle, delicious smoky flavor to the filling, mimicking a grill-like char.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. While they are fantastic on their own, offering complementary dips can elevate the experience and provide options for varying tastes. Classic choices include a cooling ranch dressing or a robust blue cheese dressing – both perfectly balance the spice of the buffalo chicken. For those who enjoy an extra kick, a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce can be provided on the side. To complete your appetizer platter, consider pairing them with crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even some bell pepper strips, which offer a refreshing crunch and a natural counterpoint to the rich filling. They are also a wonderful addition to a larger party spread, alongside other finger foods like mini quiches, bruschetta, or fruit skewers, creating a diverse and appealing buffet for your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Absolutely! These pinwheels are a fantastic make-ahead appetizer. You can prepare the entire roll-up, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the filling to firm up, making slicing effortless when you’re ready to serve. Just slice them right before your guests arrive for the freshest presentation.
While it might seem like a simple swap, we highly recommend sticking with flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are inherently less pliable and tend to crack or break when rolled tightly, especially with a substantial filling. They also don’t hold their shape as well once sliced. Flour tortillas offer the flexibility and durability needed for perfect pinwheels.
Preventing sogginess is key to a delicious pinwheel! The main culprits are excess moisture from the chicken or too much sauce. Ensure your shredded chicken is relatively dry before mixing it into the cream cheese base; pat it with paper towels if necessary. Also, stick to the recommended amount of buffalo sauce in the recipe. Using more than specified can lead to a softer, soggier filling and less stable pinwheels.
To keep your pinwheels fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. We recommend storing them already sliced for easy grabbing, or you can keep the rolls whole and slice as needed.
Yes, these pinwheels can be frozen, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, arrange the sliced pinwheels in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching. Freeze until solid (this usually takes about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 2 months for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, simply use a milder buffalo wing sauce. Many brands offer different heat levels, from mild to extra hot. You can also slightly reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used in the recipe and replace the missing volume with a little extra sour cream or cream cheese to maintain the desired consistency.
Yes, you can adapt these pinwheels for a low-carb or keto diet. The primary modification would be replacing the flour tortillas with a low-carb alternative, such as large cheese crisps, special keto-friendly tortillas, or even using large lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap. Ensure all other ingredients, like buffalo sauce, are also low in sugar and carbs. The core filling ingredients (chicken, cream cheese, blue cheese, cheddar, green onions) are generally keto-friendly.
More Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the fiery, tangy goodness of buffalo chicken in these pinwheels, you’ll be thrilled to discover more recipes that celebrate this iconic flavor. Explore these delicious options for even more buffalo-inspired meals and snacks:
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
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Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Appetizer, Lunch, Snack
American
20 minutes
20 minutes
35
90
kcal
Don’t Sweat The Recipe
Ingredients
-
1
pound
cooked chicken breast, shredded
-
1/2
cup
Buffalo wing sauce
(your favorite)
-
8
ounces
cream cheese, softened
-
1/2
cup
blue cheese, crumbled
-
1 1/4
cups
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
-
1/4
cup
sour cream
-
5
10 inch
large flour tortillas
-
2-3
green onions, thinly sliced
(green tops only)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Stir in the crumbled blue cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until well combined.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the chicken is fully coated.
- Lay one large flour tortilla flat on a cutting board. Spread about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border (approximately 1/2 inch) around the edges.
- Roll the tortilla up tightly from one end to the other. Place the rolled tortilla seam-side down on a plate. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and buffalo chicken mixture.
- Cover the plate tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing the filling to firm up.
- Remove the chilled rolls from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each rolled tortilla into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels, discarding the ends if desired. Arrange the pinwheel slices on a serving plate or tray and serve immediately.
Notes
- For optimal creaminess and easy mixing, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin.
- An electric hand mixer is highly recommended for beating the cream cheese to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Chilling the rolled tortillas is a critical step. The cream cheese needs time to set again in the refrigerator, which makes slicing much cleaner and easier.
- To prevent the filling from oozing out, do not spread the buffalo chicken mixture all the way to the very edge of the tortilla. Leave a small border.
Make Ahead: You can prepare these buffalo chicken pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them rolled up, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and stored in the refrigerator. Slice just before you are ready to serve for the freshest taste and best appearance.
Storing: Place any leftover buffalo chicken pinwheels in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. We do not recommend freezing pre-sliced pinwheels as they can become soggy.
Freezing (Unsliced Rolls): If you wish to freeze them, it’s best to do so before slicing. Wrap the entire rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving. Alternatively, if freezing sliced pinwheels, place them in a single layer not touching on a parchment-lined baking sheet, place in the freezer, and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
Calories:
90
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
6
g
|
Protein:
5
g
|
Fat:
5
g
|
Saturated Fat:
3
g
|
Cholesterol:
21
mg
|
Sodium:
262
mg
|
Potassium:
83
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
1
g
|
Vitamin A:
153
IU
|
Vitamin C:
1
mg
|
Calcium:
57
mg
|
Iron:
1
mg
This recipe was originally inspired by the wonderful creation found on HomeCookingMemories, a testament to shared culinary joy!
We hope you thoroughly enjoy preparing and sharing these phenomenal Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. They are more than just an appetizer; they are a ticket to effortless entertaining and flavor-packed moments. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a snack, these spicy, creamy, and satisfying roll-ups are sure to impress. Don’t forget to customize them to your liking and make them your own!