Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe

Name: Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 10 pinwheels
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

I love making Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels for gatherings because they are always a hit! The spicy buffalo chicken wrapped in a soft tortilla creates a flavor explosion that everyone enjoys. These pinwheels are simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients, which makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether it's game day, a party, or just a fun snack, these pinwheels are my go-to choice. Plus, they are incredibly versatile, allowing for various fillings and toppings to suit different tastes.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-23T23:02:27.705Z

When I first made Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to put together. I experimented with different sauces and fillings, and finally settled on the perfect combination of spicy buffalo chicken and creamy ranch dressing. It's a great idea to chill them in the refrigerator for a bit to let the flavors meld together, but they never last long enough around here!

One night while watching the game, I served these to my friends, and they couldn’t get enough. The key to making them even more delicious is to use freshly shredded chicken for the filling, as it retains moisture and enhances the overall flavor. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty buffalo flavor that packs a punch
Creamy ranch dressing enhances the taste perfectly
Easy to make and perfect for party trays

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels is essential for an enjoyable bite. The creamy combination of cream cheese and ranch dressing melds beautifully with the shredded chicken, creating a luscious filling. Make sure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened, about 30 minutes at room temperature, to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients. If you’re short on time, microwave it in 10-second increments until softened, but avoid overheating to prevent it from becoming too runny.

The tortillas you use also impact the overall texture. I recommend using large flour tortillas for their softness and pliability, which holds the filling well without tearing. If you prefer a healthier option, whole wheat or spinach tortillas can work just as well, imparting unique flavors. However, keep in mind that some alternative tortillas may be less flexible, so find one that suits your taste while maintaining an ideal hold on the filling.

Customizing Your Pinwheels

One of the best aspects of Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels is their adaptability to different palates. If you want more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of additional buffalo sauce for that extra kick. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, substitute some of the buffalo sauce with more ranch dressing or even BBQ sauce to tone down the spice while still achieving that zesty taste.

For a refreshing twist, incorporate additional ingredients such as diced celery or bell peppers into your chicken mixture. Not only do they add a satisfying crunch, but they also enhance the flavor profile with refreshing notes. Experimenting with different cheeses, like pepper jack or mozzarella, can further diversify the taste while ensuring the pinwheels remain rich and creamy.

Storage and Serving Tips

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic party snack. After assembling and slicing, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. If you want to prepare them more in advance, they can be made a day ahead; just ensure they are wrapped tightly to maintain freshness. Run a sharp knife through the pinwheels just before serving to ensure clean cuts and to showcase the vibrant filling.

If you have leftovers, these pinwheels can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. To prolong their freshness, consider freezing them before slicing. Wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Defrost in the fridge overnight before slicing, and you’ll have a quick snack ready to serve anytime!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious experience:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ranch dressing
4 large flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Make sure to adjust the fillings as per your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels:

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread a generous amount of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on each tortilla, leaving a little space on the edges.

Roll and Slice

Roll each tortilla tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled tortillas into pinwheels.

Chill and Serve

Place the pinwheels in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to chill before serving. This helps to set them and makes slicing easier.

Enjoy your delicious buffalo chicken pinwheels!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. These pinwheels can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a perfect make-ahead party snack.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pinwheels are falling apart upon slicing, it may be due to an overly moist filling. To fix this, ensure that your chicken is shredded finely and well-drained. You can also add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese to help bind the mixture together. Additionally, making sure your tortillas are less than room temperature can prevent them from becoming too soft and tearing.

When mixing your ingredients, take care not to overmix, which can make the filling tough. Aim for a smooth consistency while still retaining some texture from the chicken. If the filling is too dry, a splash of buffalo sauce or ranch can help moisten it without compromising flavor.

Variations to Try

For a different flavor profile, try swapping out the chicken for shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein. This is a great way to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the pinwheels delicious. You could use roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option; just ensure they're well-seasoned to maintain the bold flavors characteristic of buffalo-style dishes.

You can also switch up the dressing in the filling. A cilantro-lime dressing adds a fantastic twist and marries well with the buffalo flavor. Alternatively, adding a dollop of guacamole can impart a creamy richness that complements the spice beautifully. Don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor these pinwheels to your specific tastes!

Pairing Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are best enjoyed with sides that can cool the palate, given their spicy nature. A simple veggie platter with ranch dip or a tangy yogurt sauce pairs wonderfully, offering a refreshing contrast. I often serve them alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks, which not only add crunch but also enhance the classic buffalo wings experience.

For a more indulgent pairing, mini pretzel bites with cheese sauce or crispy tortilla chips can complement the bold flavors. Pairing them with a chilled beverage, like a light beer or sparkling lemonade, can enhance the overall experience, making them perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

You can use blue cheese dressing for a more traditional buffalo flavor or even a Greek yogurt-based dressing for a healthier option.

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds even more flavor to your pinwheels.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for these pinwheels?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with shredded carrots and cucumber, mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a tasty vegetarian version.