Chicken Crescent Rolls: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips

Chicken Crescent Rolls: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly easy and satisfying recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal! I’m so excited to share this dish with you because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

While the exact origins of Chicken Crescent Rolls are a bit hazy, the concept of wrapping savory fillings in flaky pastry has been around for centuries. Think of the classic French croissant, a testament to the deliciousness of buttery dough embracing a variety of fillings. This recipe takes that concept and simplifies it, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their culinary skills.

What makes these rolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The creamy, savory chicken filling, often featuring ingredients like cream cheese, herbs, and seasonings, contrasts beautifully with the light and flaky crescent roll dough. Each bite is an explosion of comfort food goodness. Plus, they are incredibly convenient! With minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, you can have a warm and delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a tasty appetizer to share, these Chicken Crescent Rolls are sure to be a hit!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 (8 ounce) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of our Chicken Crescent Rolls – the creamy, savory filling! This is where all the magic happens, so pay close attention. We want a filling that’s flavorful, moist, and perfectly balanced.

1. Shred the Chicken: First things first, make sure your cooked chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own chicken breasts and shred them. I personally love using rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re cooking your own chicken, poaching or baking it are great options to keep it moist.
2. Soften the Cream Cheese: This is crucial! You absolutely need to make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. If it’s not soft enough, you’ll end up with a lumpy filling, and nobody wants that. I usually take it out of the fridge about an hour before I start preparing the filling. You can also microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. I like to use a hand mixer for this, but you can also use a sturdy spoon. Just make sure everything is well incorporated.
4. Add the Chicken: Now, gently fold in the shredded chicken into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you don’t want to break down the chicken too much. We want it to stay in nice, distinct pieces.
5. Taste and Adjust: This is the most important step! Give the filling a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Does it need more garlic powder? A pinch of salt? Maybe a little extra pepper? Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Remember, you’re the chef!

Assembling the Crescent Rolls

Now that our filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the crescent rolls. This part is actually quite fun and easy, but there are a few tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly golden brown and delicious.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking the crescent rolls to a golden brown perfection without burning them.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the crescent rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. You can also lightly grease the baking sheet if you don’t have parchment paper.
3. Unroll the Crescent Roll Dough: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. Separate the dough into individual triangles. You should have 16 triangles in total (8 from each can).
4. Fill the Crescent Rolls: Place a generous spoonful (about 2 tablespoons) of the chicken filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Don’t overfill them, or the filling will ooze out during baking.
5. Roll Up the Crescent Rolls: Starting at the wide end, roll up each triangle towards the point. Gently pinch the edges to seal them, preventing the filling from escaping.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled-up crescent rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, with the point facing down. Make sure to leave a little space between each roll so they can bake evenly.

Baking and Finishing Touches

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to bake our Chicken Crescent Rolls to golden brown perfection. But before we pop them in the oven, let’s add a few finishing touches that will take them to the next level.

1. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2. Brush with Butter: Using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the melted butter. This will give them a beautiful golden color and a rich, buttery flavor.
3. Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the tops of the buttered crescent rolls with grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a salty, savory note that complements the chicken filling perfectly.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
5. Cool Slightly: Once the crescent rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This will prevent them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

These Chicken Crescent Rolls are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with a side dish or two. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the crescent rolls.
• Soup: A bowl of creamy tomato soup or chicken noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying accompaniment.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans are all healthy and delicious options.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy! These Chicken Crescent Rolls are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a party appetizer. They’re always a crowd-pleaser, and they’re sure to disappear fast. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Crescent Rolls recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both incredibly easy to make and utterly delicious. From the flaky, golden-brown crescent rolls to the creamy, savory chicken filling, every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your regular rotation.

Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, it’s the versatility and convenience that really set it apart. Got picky eaters? No problem! The mild flavors of the chicken and cream cheese make it a hit with even the most discerning palates. Short on time? This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.

But the best part? The possibilities are endless! While the classic recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Craving some veggies? Stir in some chopped broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor. You could even experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve these delightful Chicken Crescent Rolls as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
* They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties or gatherings. Simply cut them into smaller portions and arrange them on a platter for easy snacking.
* For a heartier meal, serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or rice.
* Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
* For a fun twist, try using different types of crescent roll dough, such as the buttery or honey butter varieties.
* If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try making your own homemade crescent roll dough from scratch!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something truly delicious and satisfying. I know you’ll love the ease of preparation, the incredible flavor, and the endless possibilities for customization.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible Chicken Crescent Rolls. I promise you won’t be disappointed!

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this recipe.