These BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are the perfect combination of smoky, cheesy goodness and fresh flavors. The tender chicken and rich cheddar are perfectly complemented by the tangy BBQ sauce, making every bite irresistible.
The pinwheels are not only easy to prepare but also make for an excellent appetizer or snack for any gathering. Serve them at your next BBQ, game night, or casual get-together to impress your guests with a tasty and simple treat that is sure to disappear quickly.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce
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8 small flour tortillas
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1/4 cup green onions, chopped
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1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce, green onions, and cilantro. Stir until well combined.
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Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface. Spread a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla.
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Roll up each tortilla tightly, then slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
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Arrange the pinwheels on a platter and serve. Optionally, garnish with additional cilantro or green onions for a fresh touch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the greatest aspects of BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels is their versatility. They are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual snacks to party appetizers. Their bite-sized nature makes them an easy finger food that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a barbecue, or a game day party, these pinwheels are guaranteed to disappear quickly.
These pinwheels are ideal for people who love BBQ flavors but want something a little more portable than the traditional BBQ plate. They can also be served as an appetizer or a quick lunch, and you can even pack them in a lunchbox for a delicious, on-the-go meal. The combination of smoky barbecue chicken and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese provides an irresistible bite that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Why You Should Try BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
There are plenty of reasons why you should give BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels a try. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also provide a unique twist on traditional finger foods. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful snack that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.
Quick and Easy to Make: Unlike many other appetizers or snacks that require long cooking times or multiple steps, these pinwheels can be assembled in just 15 minutes. There’s no need to fuss with complicated recipes or fancy techniques—just gather your ingredients, roll them up in a tortilla, and slice them into perfect pinwheels. This makes them a go-to option when you need to whip up something delicious on short notice.
Cheesy and Savory: The combination of tender, shredded chicken and the sharp, creamy cheddar cheese is a match made in heaven. Add to that the smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, and you have a winning flavor profile that everyone will love. The flavors meld together perfectly, offering a satisfying snack or appetizer that hits all the right notes.
Adaptable and Customizable: BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are incredibly adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences. You can easily swap out the chicken for another protein, such as turkey or even a plant-based substitute. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—whether you prefer a sharper cheddar, a creamy mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack, the possibilities are endless.
The Health Benefits of BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
While these pinwheels are certainly indulgent, they do have some redeeming qualities, especially when made with healthier ingredients. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. The addition of cilantro and green onions also contributes to the overall nutrition of the dish, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
If you’re looking to make these pinwheels a bit healthier, you can use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas for an added boost of fiber. Additionally, using a lower-fat cheese or a reduced-fat BBQ sauce can help cut down on calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Here’s how you can enjoy them:
As a Party Appetizer: Pinwheels are often the go-to choice for party appetizers. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for guests to pick up and eat with their hands. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a birthday party, or a casual get-together, these pinwheels can easily be arranged on a platter for guests to grab at their leisure.
For Game Days: If you’re a fan of tailgating or hosting a sports game viewing party, BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a must-have snack. They’re portable, easy to eat, and full of flavor—exactly what you need to fuel your game-watching experience.
As a Quick Lunch: When you’re in need of a quick and satisfying lunch, these pinwheels come to the rescue. They can be enjoyed as is or paired with a side salad for a more complete meal. They’re also easy to pack in a lunchbox for work or school.
For Family Dinners: Pinwheels make for a fun and interactive family dinner option. Kids, in particular, love them because they can eat with their hands, and the flavors are simple yet tasty enough to please picky eaters. You can also get creative with the fillings by adding extra veggies or changing the protein to suit your family’s preferences.
Tips for Making the Best BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels
While BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are easy to make, there are a few tips that can help ensure your pinwheels turn out perfectly every time:
1. Use Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: To save time and add more flavor, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it up, and it’s ready to be mixed with the BBQ sauce and cheese. This shortcut makes the recipe even easier without sacrificing taste.
2. Don’t Overstuff the Tortillas: Be sure not to overstuff the tortillas with the filling. If the tortillas are too full, they might be difficult to roll up, and you could end up with a messy pinwheel that falls apart. A generous but controlled amount of filling is just right for each tortilla.
3. Chill Before Slicing: After rolling up the tortillas, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the pinwheels hold their shape and makes them easier to cut cleanly into perfect slices.
4. Experiment with Different Flavors: While BBQ chicken is the classic filling, you can experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, cheeses, or add-ins like grilled onions, bacon, or even corn to customize the pinwheels to your taste.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a snack for a game day, or a quick lunch, they provide a combination of smoky, cheesy goodness in each bite. The best part is that they are so adaptable—you can adjust the recipe to fit your tastes, dietary restrictions, and whatever ingredients you have on hand. Perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying meal or for impressing guests at your next event, BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pinwheels will always be a winner.