Crispy Skillet Chicken Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
These crispy skillet chicken bacon ranch pinwheels are a quick and easy snack or light meal featuring a buttery crust, juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels (about 4 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (about 10 oz / 280 g)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped (thick-cut preferred)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch / 25 cm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 oz / 115 g)
- 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for skillet crisping
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Poach the chicken breasts in gently simmering water for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked (165°F / 74°C internal temperature). Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken poaches, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped bacon, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy but not runny.
- Lay one flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread about 1/4 of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll tightly from one end to the other, sealing the edge by pressing gently.
- Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick pinwheels. You should get about 6 pinwheels per tortilla.
- Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place pinwheels cut-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Repeat with remaining pinwheels, adding butter as needed.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a minute or two before serving.
Notes
If pinwheels feel loose when rolling, chill wrapped in plastic wrap for 15 minutes before slicing to help hold shape. Use medium heat to avoid burning and flip gently to keep pinwheels intact. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute cream cheese, cheddar, and tortillas accordingly. Baking option: bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with melted butter for a crispy crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 pinwheels
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 550
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 25
Keywords: chicken pinwheels, bacon ranch pinwheels, skillet chicken recipe, easy appetizer, quick snack, comfort food, party food