Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels check every box when I want something low-effort but high-impact for a crowd. They’re simple to roll ahead of time, chill in the fridge, and slice when I need them, no extra fuss. I’ve packed them for potlucks, tailgates, and summer hangouts, and they always disappear fast. If I happen to have a few left, they keep well for the next day.
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Instructions
In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ranch dressing, chicken, buffalo sauce, cheese, bacon, and chives.
4 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup ranch dressing, 1 cup cooked chicken, ⅓ cup buffalo wing sauce, ¼ cup shredded cheese, ¼ cup crispy bacon, 1 tablespoon chopped chives
Spread half of the mixture evenly over one tortilla. Repeat with the second tortilla.
2 large tortillas
Roll each tortilla tightly, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Unwrap, cut into 1½-inch slices, and arrange on a serving plate.
Drizzle with extra ranch and buffalo sauce if desired.
Notes
Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature so it blends smoothly with the ranch. This prevents lumps in the filling.
Shred the chicken finely: Smaller pieces mix better with the sauce and help the pinwheels hold together when sliced.
Use a large tortilla: Burrito-size tortillas give you more room to roll and create tighter, cleaner spirals.
Leave a bit of space at the edge: Don’t spread the filling right to the edge; leave about ½ inch so the mixture doesn’t spill out when rolling.
Roll firmly but not too tightly: This keeps the layers from squishing while helping everything stay compact.
Chill before slicing: The refrigeration step is key; it firms everything up so the pinwheels slice neatly without falling apart.
Serve chilled or slightly cool: They taste great straight from the fridge or after sitting out for a bit, making them flexible for parties.
Bake for a warm variation: If you prefer a hot version, arrange the sliced pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F until golden-brown. The tortillas crisp up, the cheese melts, and they come out ready to serve as a warm appetizer.