Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a bold and zesty appetizer made with tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and soft tortillas. These easy-to-make roll-ups are perfect for game day, parties, or a quick protein-packed snack with a kick.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour tortillas (soft, burrito-sized)cooked shredded chickencream cheese (softened)buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)ranch dressing or blue cheese dressingshredded cheddar cheesegreen onions (chopped)salt and pepper (to taste)

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.

Add the shredded chicken and chopped green onions, stirring until evenly combined.

Season with salt and pepper if needed.

Lay a tortilla flat and spread an even layer of the buffalo chicken mixture over it.

Roll the tortilla tightly, then wrap in plastic wrap to help hold its shape.

Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Unwrap and slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.

Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30-36 pinwheels (from 4 large tortillas).Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Add crumbled blue cheese for a classic buffalo flavor.

Swap ranch for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Add shredded lettuce or diced celery for crunch.

Use spinach tortillas for color and extra nutrients.

storage/reheating

Store Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Do not freeze as the texture of the cream cheese may change.Serve directly from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead. Chill them whole and slice right before serving.

Are these spicy?

They have a mild to moderate heat level depending on the buffalo sauce used. Use mild sauce for less heat.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works well—just drain it thoroughly before mixing.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work great.

Can I make this without ranch?

Yes, substitute with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or blue cheese dressing.

How do I keep them from unrolling?

Wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and chill well before slicing.

Are they gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and check all labels to ensure they’re safe for gluten-free diets.

Can I serve them warm?

They’re best cold, but can be slightly warmed if preferred—avoid overheating to keep the cream cheese stable.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are the ultimate make-ahead appetizer with creamy, spicy flavor in every bite. Easy to assemble and always a hit at parties, these pinwheels deliver bold taste with minimal effort. Serve them chilled and watch them disappear fast!