If you’re craving a big hit of flavor in a small, snackable package, you’re going to fall head over heels for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups. This is the kind of appetizer that disappears lightning-fast at parties, makes weeknight snacking genuinely exciting, and packs in all the tang, spice, and creaminess that buffalo chicken lovers dream of. Whether you’re serving these at a tailgate, for game day, or just as a fun lunch, Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups deliver that unbeatable combination of creamy richness, gently spicy kick, and irresistible crunch, all bundled up in a handheld bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are built on simple, honest ingredients — each one doing their bit to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Even better, you likely have most of these in your kitchen already, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving hits.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The hearty base, packed with protein and perfect for soaking up all those tangy flavors. Rotisserie chicken works wonders here!
- Cream cheese (softened): This is what gives your filling its creamy, dreamy spreadability — let it stand at room temp for easy mixing.
- Buffalo wing sauce: The star of the show, bringing heat, tang, and that instantly recognizable buffalo zing everyone loves.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty richness and that pop of color that makes each pinwheel so inviting.
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional): For extra boldness and a classic buffalo pairing — skip it if you’re not a fan, but it’s magic for blue cheese lovers.
- Chopped green onions: Lively color and a gentle, oniony bite that balances the richness of the filling.
- Large flour tortillas: Soft, pliable, and perfect for rolling, these hold everything together and slice into beautiful pinwheels.
- Nonstick cooking spray: A quick spritz keeps your tortillas soft and prevents sticking, making the rolling process a breeze.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and combine your cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar, blue cheese crumbles (if you’re feeling extra bold), and the chopped green onions. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix everything together until you get a smooth, creamy filling flecked with colorful bits of green, orange, and blue. This is where all the big, bold buffalo flavor comes alive!
Step 2: Spread and Roll
Lay out your flour tortillas on a flat surface. Divide that irresistible buffalo chicken mixture evenly among them — about half a cup per tortilla works nicely. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread the filling edge to edge, so every bite is packed with flavor. Once you’ve got an even layer, roll each tortilla up tightly, pressing gently as you go. A tight roll means neater, prettier pinwheels!
Step 3: Chill to Set
Now for the secret to clean, picture-perfect roll-ups: chilling! Wrap each rolled tortilla snugly in plastic wrap, then pop them in the fridge for at least one hour. This short rest firms up the filling, helping your Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups hold their shape when sliced. If you’re prepping ahead for a party, you can chill them overnight — they’ll be even easier to slice.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Unwrap your chilled roll-ups and use a sharp knife to slice each one into 1-inch rounds. You should get about six pinwheels from each roll, each swirling with creamy, spicy chicken goodness. Arrange them on a platter and watch as everyone gravitates toward these vibrant bites!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Garnishes
The finishing touch makes all the difference. A scatter of extra green onions or a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles adds freshness and a pop of color. For even more flair, nestle your pinwheels on crisp lettuce leaves or top them with thinly sliced celery for a classic buffalo-style crunch.
Side Dishes
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are fantastic alongside other party favorites. Think cool, creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping — they balance out the heat beautifully. You can also offer crunchy veggies like celery and carrot sticks, kettle chips for a salty snap, or even a bright, simple salad if you’re leaning a little healthier.
Creative Ways to Present
Have some fun with your presentation! Arrange your roll-ups in a spiral on a large platter, or skewer each pinwheel with a colorful toothpick for grab-and-go snacking. For a festive party tray, mix and match with other roll-up flavors or serve them in a tiered arrangement with dipping sauces nestled in the center. However you plate them, Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are sure to steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups keep wonderfully in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, so you can snack to your heart’s content.
Freezing
Want to get even further ahead? You can freeze Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups before slicing. Wrap the filled, rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then slice and arrange as usual.
Reheating
While these are delicious served chilled or at room temperature, you can also warm Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups for a melty, oozy version. Pop them on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes — just enough to loosen up the cheese without drying out the tortilla. Serve warm with extra dipping sauce for the ultimate treat.
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups in advance?
Absolutely! These are perfect for make-ahead entertaining. Simply assemble, roll, and wrap your Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups, then refrigerate overnight. Slice just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.
What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is the easiest and fastest choice, but any leftover cooked chicken will work just fine. You can even use poached or grilled chicken for a lighter flavor.
Are these roll-ups spicy?
The heat level is entirely up to you. Classic buffalo wing sauce gives a mild to moderate kick, but you can use a hot version for extra fire, or tone it down with a milder sauce if serving kids or spice-sensitive guests.
Can I skip the blue cheese?
Absolutely! Blue cheese is traditional with buffalo chicken, but if you’re not a fan, just leave it out. The filling will still be creamy, tangy, and full of flavor thanks to the cheddar and buffalo sauce.
How do I prevent the roll-ups from getting soggy?
Chilling the roll-ups after assembly helps firm up the filling. As long as you use regular (not low-fat) cream cheese and well-drained chicken, your Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups should stay perfectly crisp and fresh for hours.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a party-perfect appetizer that’s quick, bold, and guaranteed to please a crowd, Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are your new go-to. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, and you won’t believe how fast they disappear. Give them a try the next time you’re entertaining — or even just treating yourself — and watch them become your new favorite snack!
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Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 24 roll-ups (about 6 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. Creamy, spicy, and packed with chicken and cheese, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together: the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, cheddar cheese, blue cheese (if using), and green onions until well combined.
- Lay out the flour tortillas and: divide the filling evenly among them, spreading it out evenly across each tortilla.
- Roll each tortilla up tightly, then wrap in plastic wrap and: refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once chilled, slice each roll-up into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Serve chilled as a party snack or appetizer.
Notes
- These roll-ups can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- For extra flavor, serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- You can also warm them slightly in the oven for a melty version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 roll-ups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
