Crack Chicken Pinwheels are the ultimate party appetizer or quick snack that will have your taste buds begging for more. This creamy, cheesy, and bacon-y recipe is aptly named “crack chicken” for its irresistible flavor that’ll have you hooked from the first bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasing pinwheels in no time.
Table of Contents
What Are Crack Chicken Pinwheels?
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a variation of the popular “crack chicken” dish, which typically features shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon in a delectable combination. In this pinwheel version, the flavors are all wrapped up in a flour tortilla, creating a fun and portable finger food perfect for parties, game days, or anytime the craving strikes.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Pinwheels
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these Crack Chicken Pinwheels is a breeze!
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions until well blended.
Assemble the Wraps
Spread the chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll and Chill
Tightly roll up the tortillas, then wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Slice and Serve
Once chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels into 1-inch pieces. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Pinwheels
To ensure your Crack Chicken Pinwheels turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This will make the filling easier to spread and roll up in the tortillas.
- Chill the pinwheels thoroughly: Letting the rolled-up tortillas chill in the fridge for at least an hour (or up to 24 hours) helps them hold their shape when sliced.
- Cut with a sharp knife: A serrated knife or even a pizza cutter works best for slicing the pinwheels cleanly without them falling apart.
- Adjust filling ratios: Feel free to play with the amounts of chicken, cheese, and bacon to suit your personal tastes.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Try adding diced jalapeños, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Crack Chicken Pinwheels (about 2 slices) contains approximately:
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 16g
- Protein: 15g
These pinwheels are a great source of protein from the chicken and bacon, and the cheese and cream cheese provide a creamy, satisfying texture. Pair them with a fresh salad or veggie tray for a well-rounded snack or appetizer.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
FAQs About Crack Chicken Pinwheels
Why is it called “crack chicken”?
The “crack” in “crack chicken” refers to the irresistibly addictive nature of the dish, thanks to the combination of creamy, cheesy, and bacony flavors. It’s so delicious that it’s almost “crack-like” in how hard it is to stop eating it.
What all goes in crack chicken?
The key ingredients in crack chicken (and these pinwheels) are shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon. The blend of these flavors and textures is what makes the dish so crave-worthy.
How do I cut the pinwheels so they don’t fall apart?
To prevent the pinwheels from falling apart when slicing, make sure to chill them for at least 1 hour before cutting. This allows the filling to firm up and hold its shape. Use a sharp serrated knife or a pizza cutter to slice the pinwheels into clean, even pieces.
Can you freeze crack chicken pinwheels?
Yes, you can definitely freeze these pinwheels! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and enjoying.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are the ultimate party-pleasing appetizer that will have your guests begging for more. With their irresistible creamy, cheesy, and bacon-y flavors, these pinwheels are sure to disappear in a flash. Give this easy recipe a try, and get ready to experience the addictive magic of “crack chicken” in a fun, portable form!
For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Discover the Irresistible Crack Chicken Pinwheels Recipe Today!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Crack Chicken Pinwheels are the ultimate party appetizer or quick snack that will have your taste buds begging for more. This creamy, cheesy, and bacon-y recipe is aptly named “crack chicken” for its irresistible flavor that’ll have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions until well blended.
2. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Tightly roll up the tortillas, then wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4. Once chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the pinwheels into 1-inch pieces. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese to make the filling easier to spread and roll up in the tortillas.
Letting the rolled-up tortillas chill in the fridge for at least an hour helps them hold their shape when sliced.
A serrated knife or even a pizza cutter works best for slicing the pinwheels cleanly without them falling apart.
Feel free to play with the amounts of chicken, cheese, and bacon to suit your personal tastes.
Try adding diced jalapeños, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg