Irresistible Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Flavor Explosion
Table of Contents
Introduction
Did you know that the global pinwheel market is expected to reach $1.2 billion by 2027, with a growing preference for spicy and bold flavors? If you’re looking to jump on this culinary trend, our Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels recipe is the perfect solution. These delectable bites combine the irresistible tang of buffalo sauce with the juicy comfort of shredded chicken, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crust. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this irresistible dish!
Ingredients List
For the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels, you’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (roughly 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (we recommend a medium or hot variety)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 package (17.3 oz) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water for the egg wash
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
If you don’t have access to certain ingredients or prefer to make substitutions, try the following:
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or blue cheese for an extra flavor boost.
- Adjust the heat level by using a milder or spicier buffalo sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Timing
Preparing these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels takes approximately 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average recipe for a dish of this complexity. The hands-on prep time is about 30 minutes, while the baking time is 60 minutes. With a total time of just 90 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend gatherings.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, shred the cooked chicken breasts using two forks or your hands. Add the buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets and place them on a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll out each sheet into a larger rectangle, about 12×9 inches in size.
Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels
Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the puff pastry sheets, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Starting from the shorter side, tightly roll up the puff pastry, jelly-roll style, to create a log.
Step 4: Cut and Bake the Pinwheels
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash.
Bake the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baked pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Arrange them on a platter and serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Enjoy the perfect balance of flaky pastry, savory chicken, and bold buffalo flavor in every bite!
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 Pinwheel
Calories: 276
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 49mg
Sodium: 561mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 1g
Protein: 12g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make the Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels even healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use whole wheat or multigrain puff pastry for a boost of fiber and nutrients.
- Substitute low-fat or Greek yogurt for the cream cheese to reduce the overall fat content.
- Opt for a buffalo sauce that is low in sodium or make your own homemade version.
- Increase the amount of vegetables, such as diced celery or carrots, to add more fiber and vitamins.
- Serve the pinwheels with a fresh side salad or a platter of crudités for a more balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Serve them as an appetizer or finger food at your next party or game-day gathering.
- Pair them with a crisp salad or a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a complete meal.
- Make them the centerpiece of a casual lunch or brunch, accompanied by fresh fruit or a light soup.
- Customize the filling by adding chopped celery, diced onions, or a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor.
- For a fun presentation, arrange the pinwheels on a platter or baking sheet and let your guests help themselves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels turn out perfectly, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Overloading the filling: Too much chicken mixture can cause the pinwheels to be dense and difficult to roll.
- Letting the puff pastry thaw for too long: If the pastry becomes too soft, it can be challenging to work with and may not hold its shape.
- Cutting the pinwheels too thick: Slicing the logs into overly thick pieces can result in uneven baking and a doughy texture.
- Overbaking the pinwheels: Keep a close eye on them during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the pastry from burning.
- Skimping on the egg wash: Applying a thorough egg wash helps the pinwheels achieve a beautiful, golden-brown color.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy.
If you want to prepare the recipe in advance, you can assemble the pinwheels, slice them, and freeze them unbaked. Simply arrange the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable bag or container. When ready to bake, brush the pinwheels with the egg wash and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a delightful fusion of bold flavors and flaky pastry that will have your taste buds dancing. With their irresistible combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and melted cheese, these pinwheels are sure to become a new family favorite. Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your creations and feedback in the comments below. Bon appétit!
FAQs
A: Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the pinwheels.
B: Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken myself?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut for this recipe. Simply combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with the other filling ingredients.
C: How can I make the pinwheels ahead of time?
To make the pinwheels in advance, you can assemble them, slice them, and then freeze the unbaked pinwheels. When ready to bake, simply brush them with the egg wash and bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
D: Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Try using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, or swap in pepper jack or blue cheese for a more pronounced flavor.
E: How can I make the pinwheels less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce in the filling or use a mild/medium sauce instead of a hot variety. You can also increase the amount of cream cheese to help temper the heat.
Print
Irresistible Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Flavor Explosion
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels 1x
Description
Irresistible Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels Flavor Explosion Easy prep tech perfect as appetizer or snack Packed w spicy buffalo flavor
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 pinwheels
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
If you want more chicken recipes, Explore now
