Description
Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls
Ingredients:
1 can (8 pieces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
4. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on the wider end of each triangle and roll it up tightly.
5. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed walkthrough for perfect Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls every time.
- Prep & Mix: Ensure your chicken is finely shredded and your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature. In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded chicken, cheddar, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be cohesive and easy to scoop.
- Assemble Rolls: Unroll the crescent dough on a clean surface and firmly press the diagonal perforations together to seal them, creating a more solid sheet of dough. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles. Place a heaping tablespoon of filling onto the center of each rectangle.
- Shape & Seal: Bring all four corners of the dough rectangle up over the filling and pinch the seams tightly at the top to form a sealed bundle. This method prevents leakage better than the traditional triangle roll-up.
- Bake to Perfection: Place bundles seam-side down on your lined baking sheet. Brush generously with melted butter and sprinkle with parmesan. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. They are done when deeply golden brown and the dough appears flaky and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a comforting meal, serve alongside a creamy tomato soup or a crisp garden salad with ranch dressing. They make an excellent game-day appetizer with a bowl of marinara or ranch for dipping. For a brunch spread, complement them with fresh fruit salad and scrambled eggs.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix chicken, cheeses, and seasonings. Seal filling inside portions of crescent dough. Brush with butter, sprinkle with parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken? Yes, drained canned chicken works in a pinch, but for best flavor and texture, use freshly cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can assemble the rolls, cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 1-2 minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soggy.
Can I freeze unbaked rolls? Absolutely. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet to flash freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-8 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cream cheese? An equal amount of ricotta cheese or plain Greek yogurt are suitable substitutes, though the filling will be slightly less rich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Using too much filling is the main cause of leaks and bursting during baking. Stick to a heaping tablespoon per roll.
- Under-Sealing: Not pinching the dough seams securely allows cheese to melt out. Ensure seams are tightly closed.
- Soft Cream Cheese: Using cold cream cheese leads to a lumpy, difficult-to-mix filling. Let it soften completely.
- Undercooking: Removing rolls when they are just lightly golden can result in doughy, undercooked centers. Wait for a deep, golden-brown color.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are the ultimate easy, crowd-pleasing recipe. By combining simple ingredients with the foolproof convenience of crescent dough, you create a delicious hand-held meal perfect for any occasion. Mastering the sealing technique and avoiding common pitfalls ensures a flawless, cheesy result every time. This recipe’s flexibility for make-ahead preparation and various serving options makes it a reliable favorite for busy weeknights and entertaining alike.