Quick Description
These Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a rich, savory appetizer made with creamy chicken filling, wrapped up and baked over a buttery, cheesy cracker base. Loaded with garlicky flavor and irresistible crunch, they’re perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 18–24 pinwheels
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients List
Cracker Base
- 1½ cups Cheese Ritz Bits, lightly crushed
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Crack Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup ranch dressing or ranch seasoning (to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
Wrap
- 3–4 large flour tortillas (soft, burrito-size)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Step 2: Prepare the Cracker Base
In a bowl, mix crushed Cheese Ritz Bits with melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
Spread mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet and lightly press down.
Bake for 5–6 minutes, just until fragrant and lightly toasted. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Crack Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch, black pepper, and green onions until smooth.
Fold in shredded chicken until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pinwheels
Lay tortillas flat and spread an even layer of crack chicken filling over each.
Roll tortillas tightly into logs.
Step 5: Slice & Bake
Slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels.
Place pinwheels cut-side up on top of the toasted cracker base.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until pinwheels are heated through and lightly golden.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm and watch them disappear.
Additional Notes
- Soft tortillas roll best without cracking.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Don’t overbake — just enough to heat through and melt the cheese.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Contains gluten & dairy
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas and skip cracker base
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce
- Bacon Lover’s: Add crispy chopped bacon to filling
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack
- Serve with: ranch dip, buffalo sauce, or honey mustard
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers up to 3 days
- Make-Ahead: Assemble rolls, refrigerate, slice & bake when ready
- Reheat: Oven or air fryer for best texture
FAQs
Q: Why are these called “crack chicken”?
Because the ranch-cheddar-chicken combo is famously addictive.
Q: Can I skip the cracker base?
Yes — they’re delicious baked directly on parchment.
