Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties and game days. These bite-sized tortilla wraps pack a flavorful punch with creamy buffalo chicken and melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients
- 2 cups canned chicken
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup Ranch dressing
- 1/8 cup chopped green onions
- Flour tortillas (size as needed, for rolling)
- Plastic wrap (for rolling)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, whipped cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce. Mix thoroughly using a mixer or silicone spatula until well blended.
- Step 2: Lay a 13″x13″ square of plastic wrap flat on the counter. Place a flour tortilla on top of the plastic wrap.
- Step 3: Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly in a thin layer over the tortilla surface.
- Step 4: Carefully roll the tortilla tightly without squeezing out the filling. Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly with the plastic wrap and tuck in the ends to secure.
- Step 5: Place the wrapped tortilla roll in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to chill and set.
- Step 6: Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled roll and trim off the ends. Slice the roll into 2 to 3-inch wide pinwheels.
- Step 7: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience instead of canned chicken.
- Substitute blue cheese dressing for Ranch if you prefer a stronger flavor with the buffalo sauce.
- Try adding finely diced celery into the mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Make it spicier by increasing the buffalo sauce or adding a dash of cayenne pepper.
Storage
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the freshest taste, consume within 24 hours. These pinwheels are best served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to maintain their texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, preparing them a few hours ahead works well. Just keep them wrapped and refrigerated until you’re ready to slice and serve.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and tortillas may be compromised. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 30 pinwheels 1x
Description
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines tender canned chicken with creamy cheese, tangy buffalo sauce, and cool ranch dressing all rolled up in soft flour tortillas. Perfect for parties, tailgates, or any gathering, these bite-sized pinwheels deliver bold flavor in every slice.
Ingredients
Buffalo Chicken Filling
- 2 cups canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Garnish
- 1/8 cup green onions, chopped
- 4 large flour tortillas (for rolling)
Instructions
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, whipped cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Use a mixer or silicone spatula to blend everything until smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare the work surface: Lay a large 13″x13″ square of plastic wrap flat on the counter. Place one flour tortilla on top of the plastic wrap to prevent sticking and help with rolling.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture over the entire surface of the tortilla, ensuring full coverage but not overloading.
- Roll the tortilla: Carefully roll up the tortilla tightly, making sure not to squeeze or push out the filling. The plastic wrap will help keep the roll compact.
- Wrap and chill: Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly in the plastic wrap, tucking the ends to secure it. Place the wrapped roll in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to firm up and make slicing easier.
- Slice into pinwheels: After chilling, remove the plastic wrap from the roll and trim off the ends to create neat edges. Cut the roll into 2 to 3-inch thick slices to form individual pinwheels.
- Serve: Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve immediately or keep chilled until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use whipped cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother filling texture.
- Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to suit your desired spice level.
- Chilling the rolled tortillas before slicing helps maintain their shape and prevents the filling from spilling out.
- Leftover pinwheels keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, covered tightly.
- For a lower calorie option, use reduced-fat cheeses and ranch dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Buffalo chicken, pinwheels, appetizer, party food, tailgate snacks, buffalo sauce, chicken wraps

