Mexican Chicken Pinwheels

Introduction

When it comes to easy, delicious appetizers, Mexican Chicken Pinwheels are a family favorite in my home. These delightful bites are packed with flavor and offer a perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and savory elements that everyone loves. Whether we’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day, or just looking for a quick snack, these pinwheels never disappoint. They are incredibly simple to make, and the vibrant colors make them visually appealing on any platter. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they quickly became a staple in our household!

Ingredients

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1-2 tablespoons spicy ranch dressing
• 10 oz can Rotel Mexican Lime & Cilantro diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup red onions, diced
• 2 chicken breasts, seasoned, cooked, and shredded
• 1 cup Colby Jack cheese or Mexican blend cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 tablespoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 large flour tortillas

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and spicy ranch dressing. Mix until smooth.
2. Combine Flavors: Stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes, diced red onions, shredded chicken, shredded cheese, minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more ranch dressing or spices to suit your preference.
4. Spread the Mixture: Lay out a large flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread about a cup of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about an inch of space around the edges.
5. Roll the Tortilla: Starting from one end, tightly roll the tortilla away from you, ensuring the filling is enclosed as you roll.
6. Wrap and Chill: Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time helps the pinwheels hold their shape and makes them easier to slice.
7. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove the pinwheel from the fridge and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1- to 1.5-inch thick pieces. Arrange on a platter and serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings (about 10 pinwheels each)
• Calories per serving: ~350 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• As an appetizer: Perfect for parties or gatherings.
• With dips: Serve with salsa, guacamole, or additional ranch dressing for dipping.
• As a snack: Great for after school or game day snacking.
• In lunchboxes: A fun addition to lunch for kids and adults alike.
• With a side salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.

Additional Tips

1. Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of spicy ranch dressing based on your family’s spice tolerance.
2. Use rotisserie chicken: For even quicker prep, use shredded rotisserie chicken from the store.
3. Experiment with tortillas: Try using spinach or whole wheat tortillas for different flavors and colors.
4. Make ahead: These pinwheels can be made a day in advance; just keep them wrapped in the fridge until serving.
5. Add more vegetables: Include bell peppers or spinach in the filling for added nutrition and color.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels: Substitute the spicy ranch dressing with buffalo sauce for a zesty kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with black beans or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian pinwheel.
• Cheesy Spinach Pinwheels: Add sautéed spinach and cream cheese to create a cheesy veggie version.
• Southwestern Style: Incorporate corn and diced jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sweet and Spicy: Mix in some diced jalapeños with the chicken mixture for a sweet and spicy combo.

Serving Suggestions

• On a charcuterie board: Add these pinwheels to a charcuterie board alongside meats and cheeses.
• With drinks: Serve alongside margaritas or iced tea for a refreshing treat.
• As part of a buffet: Ideal for potluck dinners or buffet-style meals.
• With tacos or enchiladas: A great side to complement a Mexican-themed dinner.
• For kids’ parties: Fun and colorful, perfect for children’s birthday parties.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap pinwheels in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: If preferred warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works fine, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

Q2: How long do they need to chill?
Chill for at least 1 hour to help the pinwheels hold their shape when sliced.

Q3: Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! You can use ranch dressing or any dressing of your choice.

Q4: How do I prevent the tortillas from cracking?
Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave to make them more pliable before spreading the filling.

Q5: Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute shredded chicken with black beans or other vegetables.

Q6: What can I use instead of red onions?
You can use green onions or sweet onions for a milder flavor.

Q7: Are these pinwheels spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of spicy ranch dressing used.

Q8: Can I add cheese to the filling?
Yes! Adding shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can enhance the flavor.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q10: Can I serve these pinwheels warm?
They are best served cold, but you can microwave them briefly if you prefer them warm.

Conclusion
Mexican Chicken Pinwheels are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and versatile. With their creamy filling, delightful crunch, and a burst of flavor, they are sure to please any crowd. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at a gathering, a snack for the family, or a fun addition to a meal, these pinwheels will become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy the delightful taste of these Mexican Chicken Pinwheels and watch them disappear quickly from your table!

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