Golden, flaky, and irresistibly comforting, Chicken Crescent Rolls are the kind of dish you make once and immediately jot down in your “must-repeat” dinner list. Creamy chicken filling gets hugged by buttery crescent dough and baked until bubbling and perfect, all in less than 30 minutes. The best part? They’re so versatile: think weeknight family dinners, heartfelt potlucks, or even late-night snacks straight from the fridge. There’s a reason these Chicken Crescent Rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—they transform basic ingredients into a meal that feels special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One glance at these ingredients and you’ll understand why Chicken Crescent Rolls always feel doable, no matter what’s in your fridge. Every item here brings its own essential texture, flavor, or color to the party—skip nothing for that signature result!
- Canned Crescent Roll Dough: This is the star that gives the rolls their flaky, golden exterior—be sure to grab the full-sized rolls for easy wrapping!
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender and mild, shredded chicken soaks up all the creamy flavors; leftovers or rotisserie work beautifully.
- Cream Cheese: Adds rich creaminess and holds the filling together; room temperature cream cheese blends the smoothest.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings a sharp, gooey bite and a touch of color—feel free to swap for Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild bite and a pop of bright green throughout the rolls.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the filling with subtle savory depth—just a pinch works wonders!
- Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings that let the other ingredients shine and help build the perfect bite.
- Melted Butter: Brushed on top for an extra golden finish, and to keep the rolls moist and flavorful.
How to Make Chicken Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked, shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using a fork or spatula, mix until everything is thoroughly combined and the chicken is evenly coated in creamy goodness. Don’t be afraid to taste and tweak with a little extra seasoning as needed—this filling is the heart of your Chicken Crescent Rolls!
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Dough
Pop open your can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it onto a clean work surface. Gently separate the dough along the perforations into triangles. If the dough is sticky, a light dusting of flour on your hands helps. Lay the triangles out so they’re ready for filling and rolling.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
Spoon a generous dollop of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Begin rolling from the wide end, tucking in the sides slightly as you go to help keep that luscious filling inside. Place each roll seam side down onto a lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them for perfect browning.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush each roll lightly with melted butter to guarantee that mouthwatering golden top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little extra cheddar or a hint of garlic powder on top for a flavor boost. This step is optional, but trust me—it’s worth the extra minute!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed, golden, and crispy on the outside. Keep a close eye near the end for that perfect golden color. Allow the Chicken Crescent Rolls to cool slightly before serving—they’re best enjoyed warm!
How to Serve Chicken Crescent Rolls
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or an extra shower of sliced green onions right before serving adds a pop of color and a fresh finish. For an extra-special touch, a dusting of paprika or a drizzle of creamy ranch can make these Chicken Crescent Rolls feel restaurant-worthy at your dining table.
Side Dishes
These Chicken Crescent Rolls are super versatile—pair them with a crisp garden salad for a lighter meal, classic roasted veggies for comfort food vibes, or a hearty bowl of tomato soup for a nostalgic combo. They also shine next to potato salad, coleslaw, or even simply fresh fruit for brunch gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving a crowd? Arrange Chicken Crescent Rolls in a wreath shape on a platter and tuck fresh herbs in the center for a festive look. For a kid-friendly twist, offer fun dipping sauces in little bowls alongside the rolls—think honey mustard, creamy ranch, or spicy buffalo. They also look gorgeous stacked high on a rustic wooden board for a casual, grab-and-go appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Chicken Crescent Rolls left (hard to imagine, but it happens!), pop them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, keep them on the top shelf where they stay freshest—you’ll thank yourself the next day for a ready-made snack or lunch.
Freezing
Chicken Crescent Rolls freeze beautifully! Simply let them cool completely, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just be sure to label them so you don’t forget about your treat stashed away.
Reheating
For that just-baked taste, reheat Chicken Crescent Rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works, but they’ll be softer—try to avoid overheating so the filling stays creamy and the dough doesn’t toughen.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken to make Chicken Crescent Rolls?
Yes, you absolutely can! Well-drained canned chicken works in a pinch and makes this recipe even more convenient. Just be sure to break up any large pieces well so the filling blends smoothly.
How do I make these rolls gluten-free?
There are a few brands that offer gluten-free crescent dough—seek these out in the specialty aisle or try your favorite gluten-free pie dough as a substitute. Just double-check all your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
What other cheeses work well in Chicken Crescent Rolls?
You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a little pepper jack for a kick of heat. Mixing cheeses is a fun way to play with flavors and give your rolls a unique twist each time.
Can I make Chicken Crescent Rolls ahead for entertaining?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate on the baking sheet for up to 12 hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time as needed.
Are Chicken Crescent Rolls good for kids?
Kids love them! The creamy filling and soft, golden roll are usually a hit even with picky eaters. Let little helpers help with the rolling for a fun kitchen project the whole family enjoys.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough about how easy, cozy, and all-around delightful these Chicken Crescent Rolls are. If you’re looking for a dish that delivers on flavor, comfort, and sheer happiness with every bite, this is it. Give them a try the next time you want something that feels special with minimal effort—I know they’ll earn a beloved spot on your table, too!
PrintChicken Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 16 rolls
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Chicken Crescent Rolls are a family-friendly, comforting main course that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Baked until golden brown, these rolls are easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, lunchboxes, or casual entertaining. They deliver crowd-pleasing flavor and satisfying texture, making them a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 oz (half block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rolls
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 rolls per can)
Optional Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Chicken Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles as per package instructions.
- Fill and Roll: Place about 1 heaping tablespoon of chicken filling near the wide end of each crescent triangle. Roll up, starting from the wide end, and tuck the edges underneath to help seal in the filling. Transfer each roll to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Add Topping (Optional): If desired, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with seasoned breadcrumbs for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are nicely golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the chicken crescent rolls to cool for several minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a main course or snack!
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Add cooked veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Dough can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving—refrigerate unbaked rolls for up to 8 hours.
- Serve with a side salad or dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for a complete meal.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *