Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a perfect party appetizer or snack, combining the tangy heat of buffalo chicken with creamy cheese and a fresh crunch. These pinwheels are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Here’s a detailed recipe to help you create these flavorful bites.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- ⅓ cup chopped green onion: Adds a fresh, mildly pungent flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy flavor that melts well.
- ½ cup bleu cheese, crumbled: Provides a bold, tangy flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
- 5 ounces Frank’s Red Hot Sauce: Adjust to taste for the desired level of heat and flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature: Ensures the filling is creamy and spreadable.
- 5 or 6 large flour tortillas: Use to roll up the buffalo chicken mixture into pinwheels.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped green onion, garlic powder, salt, shredded Colby Jack cheese, crumbled bleu cheese, Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined. The cream cheese should be softened to make mixing easier and to ensure a smooth, creamy filling.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce to your preferred level of spiciness. If you like it hotter, add a bit more sauce.
- Assemble the Pinwheels:
- Prepare Tortillas: Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll Up: Starting at one end, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure it is rolled tightly enough so that the filling doesn’t spill out, but not so tight that it tears the tortilla.
- Slice: Using a sharp knife, cut each rolled tortilla into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter.
- Serve:
- Chill (Optional): If you have time, refrigerate the pinwheels for about 30 minutes to make them easier to slice and to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a drizzle of additional buffalo sauce if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Tortilla Type: Use large flour tortillas to ensure you can roll up the filling tightly. If you prefer a smaller bite, you can use smaller tortillas and adjust the amount of filling accordingly.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth and spreadable filling.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce based on your tolerance for spice. If making these for a crowd, you might want to start with less sauce and allow guests to add more if they prefer.
FAQs:
- Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance. After slicing, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. They should be good for up to 24 hours. If making further in advance, consider freezing the rolled tortillas before slicing and then thaw and slice before serving.
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute other cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can work well. Adjust the amount based on the cheese’s strength and melting properties.
- What can I serve with these pinwheels? These pinwheels are great on their own but can also be served with dips such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a side of extra buffalo sauce for dipping.
- Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian? Yes, you can replace the chicken with a mixture of cooked and shredded vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, and celery, combined with a vegetarian buffalo sauce and cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels offer a flavorful and satisfying snack or appetizer that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and tender chicken. These pinwheels are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual gathering, or just looking for a tasty treat, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy texture of these delicious bites!
