These BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a tasty and easy snack! Filled with shredded chicken, melty cheddar, and zesty BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for parties or a fun lunch.
Roll them up, slice, and watch them disappear! I love how quick they are to make, plus they’re a great way to use up leftover chicken. Who can resist a yummy pinwheel? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: This is the star ingredient! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken from a previous meal. If you’re vegetarian, shredded jackfruit or a bean mix can be great alternatives.
BBQ Sauce: Any BBQ sauce works, but I love a smoky or tangy one for extra flavor. If you want a healthier version, homemade BBQ sauce is simple to make. Just mix ketchup with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your choice of spices.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives a nice sharpness. If you’re looking for a substitute, pepper jack adds a spicy kick, or you can use a dairy-free cheese option if you avoid dairy.
Tortillas: The flour tortillas provide a soft wrap. Whole wheat or spinach tortillas are healthy swaps. Corn tortillas work too, but they’ll be more fragile, so handle them gently.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley adds freshness and color. If you’re not a fan of either, green onions can add a nice crunch and flavor as well.
How Do I Roll Perfect Pinwheels?
Rolling the tortillas tightly is key to making pretty pinwheels. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with the filling spread evenly from edge to edge so every bite is flavorful.
- Begin rolling tightly from one side without leaving gaps. The tighter the roll, the better the pinwheel will hold together.
- Use a sharp knife to slice them cleanly. Wetting the knife before cutting can help prevent sticking.
Want them to hold their shape better? Chilling the rolls in the fridge for a bit before slicing works wonders!
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 15-20 minutes of chilling time if you want to slice them more easily. In total, you can have these flavorful pinwheels ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken with about 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir well until all the chicken is nicely coated in that zesty BBQ goodness.
2. Lay Out the Tortillas:
Take one tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface or cutting board. This will be the canvas for your delicious filling!
3. Spread the Chicken Mixture:
Evenly spread a generous layer of the BBQ chicken mixture over the entire tortilla, leaving a small border at the edges. This ensures a nice seal when you roll it up!
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle that wonderful shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken layer. The more, the merrier!
5. Roll It Up:
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, forming a log shape. Make sure it’s nice and compact so your pinwheels hold together well.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortilla into 1 to 1 ½ inch thick pinwheels. You should have lovely rounds of chicken and cheese goodness!
7. Arrange and Garnish:
Place the pinwheels on a serving platter. Drizzle your extra BBQ sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These pinwheels can be served immediately as a delicious appetizer or snack. If you wish, you can chill them for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up for easier slicing. Either way, they are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these flavorful, cheesy, and saucy BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels — perfect for parties or casual gatherings!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce for a quick filling.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, slice and enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, consume them cold or reheat gently in the microwave for a warm snack.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
You can get creative with the fillings! Try adding cooked bacon, diced bell peppers, or different cheeses like cream cheese or pepper jack for extra flavor. Mix it up based on what you have on hand!