These BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering! With shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melty cheddar, they’re simply scrumptious.
Making these is like rolling up a party! I love serving them with a side of extra BBQ sauce for dipping—it’s like a flavor hug in every bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s so easy! If you prefer, you can boil chicken breasts or use canned chicken as alternatives. This keeps it quick and hassle-free!
BBQ Sauce: The type of BBQ sauce can change the flavor profile. I like a sweet and smoky sauce, but feel free to use your favorite or even a spicy version for a kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but Monterrey Jack or pepper jack can work too! If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese options that melt well.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas give a nice soft texture. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps work beautifully.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a fresh flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions can do the trick. Choose the herb you love most!
How Do I Roll My Pinwheels Without Them Unraveling?
Rolling pinwheels correctly can be tricky. To make sure they stay together, here are some simple tips:
- Use room temperature tortillas; they roll better!
- Spread fillings evenly but not too close to the edges to avoid overflow.
- Roll tightly from one end to the other, taking care not to squeeze too hard.
After rolling, slice them with a sharp knife. If you notice they start to unravel, a toothpick can hold them together while baking. This will keep all your delicious fillings in place!
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, plus extra for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced green onions or jalapeños for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for baking, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You can whip these up quickly for a game day snack, party appetizer, or a fun family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s always good to have it nice and hot before you bake those delicious pinwheels! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the cooked, shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of the BBQ sauce. Stir it well until all the chicken is coated evenly. This is where the flavor begins to build!
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
Take one flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges to keep everything contained.
4. Add Cheese and Chicken:
Now, sprinkle a quarter of the shredded cheddar cheese over the BBQ sauce. Next, evenly distribute a quarter of the BBQ chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
5. Add Fresh Herbs & Optional Ingredients:
Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top, and if you like a little heat, this is the time to add the optional sliced green onions or jalapeños!
6. Roll It Up!
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly from one edge to the other to form a log. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight that the filling spills out!
7. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortilla into 1 to 1.5-inch thick pinwheels. Try to make them as even as possible so they cook uniformly.
8. Bake the Pinwheels:
Arrange the pinwheels cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish them with additional chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These pinwheels are best served warm! Enjoy them with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. They make a fantastic snack, appetizer, or fun addition to any meal!
Dig in and enjoy your BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and cook the chicken before shredding. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Cooked chicken is best for these pinwheels!
Can I Prepare These Pinwheels in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheels a few hours ahead of time, just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you want to make them even further in advance, consider freezing the rolled pinwheels—just thaw and bake when needed!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, though the crispiness might be lost.
Can I Customize the Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also switch up the BBQ sauce for different flavors or even add some cooked veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra texture!
