These Mexican Chicken Pinwheel Roll-ups are fun, tasty bites packed with flavors! Creamy cheese, spicy salsa, and seasoned chicken come together in a tortilla—what’s not to love?
They’re perfect for snacks or parties! I can’t resist making them whenever friends visit; they disappear fast! Just roll, slice, and enjoy—so easy and so good! 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are the traditional choice for these roll-ups, but you can swap them for whole wheat, spinach, or even gluten-free tortillas if needed. Each type adds its own flavor and texture.
Chicken: Shredded or chopped cooked chicken is key, but you could also use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, black beans or cooked lentils work well as a protein substitute!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a vegan choice.
Cheeses: Cheddar is a great pick, but feel free to try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Mixing different cheeses can also be a fun twist!
Salsa: Choose between mild or spicy salsa based on your heat preference. If you don’t have salsa, mixing diced tomatoes with a little hot sauce or a few diced jalapeños can be a great alternative.
How Do I Keep the Roll-ups from Unraveling?
To ensure your pinwheels hold together well, rolling them tightly is the key! Start from one edge and roll steadily, keeping the filling evenly distributed.
- Leave a little space at the edges—this prevents overflow when you roll.
- Chilling the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap helps them set, making slicing easier and cleaner.
- When cutting, use a sharp knife and avoid sawing back and forth—smooth, even cuts give you lovely pinwheels.
These techniques will help your Mexican Chicken Pinwheel Roll-ups look and taste great! Enjoy your appetizer-making adventure!
How to Make Mexican Chicken Pinwheel Roll-ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup salsa (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper or tomatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning or a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Filling:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, and taco seasoning into the bowl. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This is the creamy, flavorful filling for your pinwheels!
2. Add Chicken and Veggies:
Next, stir in the cooked chicken, cilantro, and any diced red bell pepper or tomatoes if you’re using them. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as you like. Make sure everything is well combined and flavorful!
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface like your kitchen counter. This is where we’ll spread that tasty filling!
4. Spread the Mixture:
Evenly spread the chicken and cheese mixture over each tortilla, making sure to leave about a 1/2 inch space around the edges. This helps prevent spills when we roll them up!
5. Roll Them Up:
Now it’s time to roll! Starting from one end, roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape. Give them a good roll but be gentle to keep the filling inside where it belongs!
6. Chill for Better Slicing:
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the rolls firm up, making them easier to slice later!
7. Slice into Pinwheels:
Once chilled, take the rolls out of the fridge, unwrap them, and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into 1-inch pinwheel slices. Aim for nice, even cuts for a beautiful presentation.
8. Arrange and Garnish:
Place your pinwheels on a serving platter and feel free to sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top for a lovely garnish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These pinwheel roll-ups can be served chilled or at room temperature—perfect for snacking or as an appetizer at gatherings! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortillas?
Absolutely! While flour tortillas are the classic choice, you can use whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas. Each type will give your roll-ups a unique twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheel slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a quick snack or lunch option!
Can I Prepare These Roll-ups in Advance?
Yes, you can make these pinwheels up to a day in advance! Just prepare, roll, and chill them as instructed, then slice just before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you need a vegetarian option, try black beans or cooked lentils in place of chicken. You can also use shredded tofu for a similar texture!
