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Chicken Taco Mexican Pinwheels

Featured in Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers.

Chicken Taco Mexican Pinwheels are a fun and versatile appetizer or snack. A creamy blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, Mexican cheese, tomatoes, and green chiles creates the flavorful filling. Spread the mixture onto soft tortillas, roll them up tightly, and chill to set. Slice into bite-sized pinwheels and serve, garnished with fresh cilantro for a delicious and easy-to-make dish. These pinwheels pack vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors that are perfect for entertaining or quick snacking.

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Updated on Thu, 20 Mar 2025 21:47:43 GMT
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This creamy chicken taco pinwheel recipe has become my go-to party appetizer whenever I need something that disappears faster than I can set it down. The combination of zesty taco seasonings, tender shredded chicken, and creamy cheese wrapped in soft tortillas creates bite-sized flavor bombs that everyone loves.

I first made these pinwheels for a neighborhood block party and came home with an empty plate and seven recipe requests. Now they're requested at every family gathering, and my nephew has been known to position himself strategically near the appetizer table when he knows they're coming.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

My absolute favorite way to prepare these pinwheels is using leftover tequila lime chicken from my weekend grilling. The subtle citrus notes complement the taco seasonings beautifully. Last Christmas, my mother in law called me three times for this recipe after trying them at our holiday gathering, which might be the highest compliment my cooking has ever received.

Make Ahead Magic

Smart Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

Storage Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the pinwheels just before serving for the best texture.

→ How do I prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy?

Ensure the diced tomatoes are very well drained, and do not overfill the tortillas. Chilling the rolls before slicing also helps maintain their texture.

→ What’s the best way to shred chicken for the filling?

You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken. For the best flavor, try using shredded Tequila Lime Chicken as suggested in the recipe notes.

→ Can I freeze unused filling?

Yes, leftover filling can be frozen in a sealed bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

→ Are there any substitutions for cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can leave it out or substitute with finely chopped parsley for a similar fresh element in the dish.

Chicken Taco Mexican Pinwheels

Soft tortillas rolled with creamy chicken taco flavors for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Ferdaous

Category: Appetizers

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 10 Servings (80 pinwheels (approximately))

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Filling

01 12 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
02 1/2 cup sour cream
03 2 cups shredded chicken
04 1.5 Tbsp taco seasoning
05 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
06 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles, very well drained
07 1 1/2 tsp garlic, finely minced
08 5 green onions, sliced thinly
09 3/4 - 1 cup cilantro, chopped finely

→ Tortilla and Garnish

10 8 burrito-sized flour tortillas
11 Fresh minced cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl, stirring until well combined.

Step 02

Lay a flour tortilla on the work surface and spread about 1/4 cup evenly over the tortilla, leaving a 1/2 - 1 inch border.

Step 03

Starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly towards the top like a cigar. Place the roll seam-side down on a prepared pan.

Step 04

Repeat with the remaining tortillas, then place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to several hours to chill and firm up.

Step 05

Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice each roll into 1 inch pinwheels and serve.

Notes

  1. Chilling time is not included in the preparation time as it varies.
  2. Leftover filling can be frozen in a sealed bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
  3. Shredded chicken can be made using tequila lime chicken, leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or canned chicken.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp serrated knife
  • Prepared pan

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, Mexican cheese)
  • Gluten (flour tortillas)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 40
  • Total Fat: 2 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 1 g