Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are a no-fuss, high-flavor appetizer that brings together bold spice and creamy richness in a bite-sized swirl. These tortilla-wrapped snacks are packed with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and rich cream cheese, all rolled up with sharp cheddar and a touch of green onion crunch. Perfect for game day spreads, lunchbox additions, or quick entertaining, they disappear fast!

What makes these pinwheels irresistible is their balance: spicy meets creamy, and the soft tortilla hugs every layer with just the right bite. Make them ahead and slice when ready to serve for a stress-free snack that tastes like you fussed for hours.
What Kind of Tortilla Should I Use?
Soft, burrito-sized flour tortillas work best for pinwheels. They roll easily without tearing and hold their shape when chilled and sliced. If you’re looking to lower carbs, low-carb wraps or whole wheat options also work. Avoid corn tortillas, which are more brittle and likely to crack.
Ingredients for the Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
- Cooked Shredded Chicken: The protein backbone. Use rotisserie for convenience or cook and shred your own.
- Buffalo Sauce: Delivers the bold, spicy flavor that defines this recipe.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to mix easily and provide creamy contrast to the heat.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and cheesy richness.
- Green Onions: Fresh bite and mild oniony flavor that lifts the whole mix.
- Flour Tortillas: The perfect wrap to hold everything together in neat spirals.
How To Make the Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar. Mix until smooth, then fold in the shredded chicken and sliced green onions.
Step 2: Spread and Roll
Lay out your tortillas and evenly spread the buffalo chicken mixture across each, reaching all the way to the edges. Tightly roll each tortilla into a log.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up for cleaner slicing.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch pinwheels. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or room temp.

How to Serve and Store These Pinwheels
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels cold or slightly chilled for best texture and flavor. They’re ideal for party platters, potlucks, and even weekday snacks.
To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If prepping ahead, keep the rolls whole and slice just before serving for best presentation.
What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels?
Creamy Ranch or Blue Cheese Dip
For dipping or drizzling—it cools the heat and complements the buffalo flavor.
Celery and Carrot Sticks
Crunchy veggies balance the spice and add freshness.
Deviled Eggs
A smooth, savory bite that fits beautifully on any appetizer table.
Pasta Salad
A creamy or tangy pasta salad gives contrast and makes it more of a meal.
Chips and Salsa
An easy add-on for a full snack spread.
Pickles or Olives
Their tang and saltiness pair well with the creamy filling.
Sliders or Mini Sandwiches
Serve pinwheels as part of a larger finger food buffet.
Want More Chicken Appetizer Ideas?
If you’re hooked on these Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels, you’ll love these tasty bites too:
- Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a baked twist on buffalo flavors.
- Taco Ranch Bites for more handheld snack magic.
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re craving comforting layers.
- Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso to pair with your appetizer platter.
- Buffalo Chicken Dip for a scooping-friendly cousin to these pinwheels.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest party board so you can whip it up for your next game night or potluck.
I’d love to hear how you make these your own! Did you go mild or wild with the sauce? Add extra cheese? Share your version in the comments.
Explore more bold, party-friendly bites on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and discover what you’ll bring next.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels
Description
Ready to spice up your next snack platter or game day spread? These Easy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels deliver everything you love about buffalo wings in a chilled, creamy, cheesy roll-up that’s easy to make ahead. This is your go-to if you’re looking for quick lunch prep, effortless party food, or bold appetizers. With shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and smooth cream cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, they hit every flavor note while being portable and fun. Great for entertaining or a high-protein snack on the go. Searchable keywords include: quick appetizer, buffalo chicken snack, easy party food, meal prep lunch, low-carb option, finger food ideas.
Ingredients
1.5 cups cooked shredded chicken
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions
4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese until smooth.
2. Fold in shredded chicken and green onions until evenly distributed.
3. Lay out tortillas and spread the mixture evenly to the edges.
4. Roll each tortilla tightly into a log.
5. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Slice into 1-inch pinwheels just before serving.
7. Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Be sure to chill the rolls well for clean slices—overnight is even better.
You can swap buffalo sauce for mild wing sauce if serving to kids or spice-sensitive guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pinwheels
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: buffalo chicken pinwheels, quick appetizer, party snacks
