BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack! They combine shredded chicken, creamy cheddar, and zesty BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in tortillas.
These little bites are perfect for game day or a snack with friends. I love how easy they are to make—you just roll, slice, and enjoy! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for fastest prep. If you’re short on time, canned chicken works too! Or, for a vegetarian option, substitute with garbanzo beans, mashed and mixed with BBQ sauce.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor. Homemade sauce can be a fun project. Need it milder? Go for a less spicy option or use a teriyaki sauce instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick! Vegan cheese shreds are also a great alternative for a dairy-free option.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are standard here, but corn tortillas or whole-wheat tortillas can be used for a different flavor or to keep it gluten-free.
How Do You Roll Perfect Pinwheels Without Spilling?
Rolling your tortillas neatly keeps everything inside and looking great! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by spreading the filling from edge to edge, but leave a little space at the top so the filling doesn’t ooze out.
- Begin rolling tightly from the bottom edge upwards, tucking in as you go to keep it neat.
- Keep the roll as tight as possible without tearing the tortilla. The tighter the roll, the better it holds together.
After slicing, if you find them overly stuffed, gently press the pinwheels together for a perfect presentation!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese or mayonnaise (to add some creaminess)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Wrap:
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these pinwheels takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After rolling and slicing, if you choose to chill them, allow an additional 20 minutes for them to set in the refrigerator. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying these delicious snacks in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir well until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce. If you like a creamier filling, mix in the cream cheese or mayonnaise, along with the garlic and onion powders for extra flavor.
2. Spread the Filling on Tortillas:
Place one tortilla flat on a clean surface, and evenly spread 1/4 of the chicken mixture over it, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help to keep the filling from spilling out when you roll it up.
3. Add Cheese and Cilantro:
Sprinkle 1/4 of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken layer, followed by a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for some fresh flavor.
4. Roll Up the Tortilla:
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom edge upwards into a log shape. Make sure to keep it as tight as possible for a neat finish.
5. Repeat the Process:
Continue this process with the remaining tortillas, spreading the mixture, adding cheese, sprinkling cilantro, and rolling each one up.
6. Slice Your Pinwheels:
Once all the tortillas are rolled, grab a sharp knife and slice each roll into 1 to 1 1/2 inch wide pinwheels. This is where the fun begins as you reveal the pretty layers inside!
7. Chill and Serve:
Arrange the pinwheels on a serving plate. If desired, chill them in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to help them hold their shape better. Before serving, you can garnish with extra cilantro leaves for a pop of color!
Enjoy your flavorful BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great. Just ensure it’s shredded to easily mix with the BBQ sauce.
How Do I Make These Pinwheels Gluten-Free?
For gluten-free pinwheels, simply use gluten-free tortillas. There are many brands available that taste great and hold up well!
Can I Make These Pinwheels in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, enjoy them chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving again!
