Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

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Whether you’re prepping for game day, packing a quick lunch, or need a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels deliver the flavor. These savory swirls are the perfect combo of creamy, spicy, and satisfying—wrapped up in a soft tortilla and sliced into fun, bite-sized rolls. They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast, so make extra!

Each pinwheel is layered with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, cool cream cheese, and sharp cheddar. The result? A creamy-cheesy heat with just the right amount of kick. They’re incredibly easy to prep ahead, store well in the fridge, and look as good as they taste.

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What Kind of Tortilla Should I Use?

You can use regular flour tortillas for these pinwheels, ideally the burrito-sized kind to give you more room to roll. If you’re feeling adventurous, spinach or sun-dried tomato wraps add a pop of color and a subtle flavor twist. The key is to go for a tortilla that’s soft, flexible, and fresh so it doesn’t tear while rolling.

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Ingredients for the Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. It’s the protein-packed base that carries all the flavor.

Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature so it spreads easily and adds a rich, smooth texture to balance the heat.

Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot or your favorite wing sauce gives that classic tangy heat that makes these pinwheels shine.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For a bold, melty contrast to the creamy base. Sharp cheddar works best, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.

Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a bit of crunch and fresh flavor.

Flour Tortillas: Large, burrito-size tortillas work best for getting a tight roll and even slices.

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How To Make the Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Step 1: Make the Creamy Buffalo Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well-blended. Fold in the shredded chicken and sliced green onions. The mixture should be thick and spreadable.

Step 2: Spread and Roll

Lay out one flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the tortilla, reaching all the edges. Starting at one end, roll the tortilla up tightly, just like a jelly roll. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Step 3: Chill for Clean Slices

Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps firm up the filling, making it easier to slice cleanly without squishing the roll.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After chilling, unwrap the rolls and place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

These pinwheels are a hit straight from the fridge, making them the perfect grab-and-go snack or party platter addition. Serve them cold or let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for a slightly softer bite.

For entertaining, arrange them on a serving board with carrot sticks, celery, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They’re also fantastic in lunchboxes and picnic baskets, holding up well without getting soggy.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re meal prepping, wrap the uncut rolls tightly and slice them fresh the day you plan to serve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and roll them a day ahead. Just store them wrapped in plastic wrap and slice before serving for best texture.

Are they spicy?

They have a mild to medium kick, depending on the brand of buffalo sauce. Want it milder? Use less buffalo sauce or mix in a little sour cream. Want it hotter? Add cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and flavorful, but you can use any cooked and shredded chicken—boiled, baked, or grilled.

Can I freeze them?

It’s not recommended. The cream cheese filling can change texture once thawed, making the pinwheels watery and less appetizing.

What if I don’t like cream cheese?

You can swap it for Greek yogurt or a ranch-flavored spread, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

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Want More Savory Appetizer Ideas?

If these Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels have you craving more bold flavors, you’ll love these savory favorites too:

• Louisiana Remoulade Sauce — zesty and creamy, perfect for dipping.
• Spicy Sailor’s Dip — a fiery, crowd-pleasing dip with layered flavor.
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip — crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside.
• Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip — briny, creamy, and completely addictive.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes — a heartier bite-sized dish perfect for gatherings.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can find it fast when game day rolls around: Follow Life with Jam on Pinterest.

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you add a twist with blue cheese or go heavy on the spice? I love seeing your versions and creative takes.

Have a question? Drop it below and let’s make these pinwheels even better together.

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