Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels are tasty rolled wraps filled with creamy ranch, chicken, and crispy bacon. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat!
I love how easy they are to prepare—just spread, roll, and slice. Perfect for parties or a snack. Plus, who can resist bacon? It’s a crowd-pleaser every time! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large tortillas are perfect for rolling. You can swap them for spinach or whole wheat tortillas for a different flavor and color, or even gluten-free options if needed.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese.
Ranch Dressing: Use your favorite store-bought ranch, but homemade ranch will elevate the flavors even more. Just mix mayo, buttermilk, and herbs for a fresher taste.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. If you want a veggie version, consider using diced avocados or roasted veggies for a really tasty alternative.
Bacon: I always use crispy bacon for the best texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta works well too.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
How Do I Roll Pinwheels Without Making a Mess?
Rolling pinwheels can sometimes be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Start with the right amount of filling and evenly spread it out.
- Spread your cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges, but not too thick; about 1/4 inch works well.
- Begin rolling from one edge, keeping the tortilla tight as you go. This ensures a nice, compact pinwheel.
- After rolling, wrap tightly in plastic wrap. This helps the roll maintain its shape while chilling.
- Chill for at least 1 hour to set—this makes slicing easier and gives the flavors time to blend.
After chilling, use a sharp knife to slice, and remember, a gentle sawing motion helps keep the pinwheels from squishing!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pinwheels:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour for chilling in the fridge. So, you’re looking at a total time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but most of that is just waiting for those tasty flavors to meld together and for the pinwheels to firm up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy—this will be your delicious spread!
2. Add the Good Stuff:
Next, stir in the diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and your choice of herbs. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Don’t forget to taste! Add a pinch of salt and pepper if you feel it needs it.
3. Spread It All Out:
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Using a spatula or spoon, spread a generous layer of that tasty chicken bacon ranch mixture all over the tortilla, leaving a little space at the edges to avoid overflow when you roll it up.
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure to keep it snug but not too tight that the filling squeezes out. Set the roll aside while you repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.
5. Chill and Set:
Wrap each rolled tortilla log in plastic wrap tightly to keep its shape. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step makes slicing much easier!
6. Slice and Serve:
Once chilled, take the logs out of the fridge and unwrap them. Use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheel pieces. Arrange the lovely pinwheels on a serving platter, and if you like, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for a pop of color!
Enjoy your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels as a delightful appetizer or snack! They’re sure to be a hit! 🎉
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before serving. Just keep them wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with diced avocados, black beans, or even roasted vegetables for a tasty twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, it’s best to separate layers with parchment paper, especially if they are sliced.
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients?
Yes, you can! Using low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat ranch dressing, and turkey bacon are great ways to make the pinwheels lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.
