Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

Introduction:

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked chicken-stuffed crescent rolls wafting through the kitchen. These golden, flaky crescents, filled with a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture, are the perfect balance of savory and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a quick lunch, or a potluck, these rolls have a way of bringing people together. They’re not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredient Overview

Main Ingredients:

Crescent Roll Dough: The foundation of this recipe, providing a flaky, buttery wrap that’s irresistible.
Cooked Chicken: A great way to use up leftovers, providing a hearty, protein-packed filling.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully within the roll, adding a rich, creamy flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds a smooth, creamy texture that binds the filling ingredients together perfectly.
Green Onions: Offers a fresh, slightly tangy bite that complements the richness of the filling.
Garlic Powder and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that bring depth and warmth to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Creates a savory, crispy topping that adds a delightful contrast to the soft dough.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a touch of brightness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will not only prevent the crescent rolls from sticking but also make cleaning up a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring every bite will be full of flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Crescent Rolls

Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently separate it into individual triangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Carefully roll each triangle from the wide end toward the point, ensuring the filling stays inside. Place each roll on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the tops of the crescent rolls. This will give them a lovely golden crust and an extra burst of savory flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For a finishing touch, garnish the baked crescent rolls with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear from the plate. Each bite is a perfect combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and cheesy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for this recipe. It’s already seasoned and cooked, making it a time-saver.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Swiss cheese would work well. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese.

What can I use if I don’t have mayonnaise?

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Both will add a similar creaminess to the filling.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them fresh before serving.

Can I freeze the stuffed crescent rolls?

Yes, they freeze well. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure you don’t overfill the rolls and that the dough is securely wrapped around the filling. Press the seams together to seal them.

What can I serve with these rolls?

These rolls are versatile and pair well with a simple salad, soup, or even as part of a brunch spread.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Puff pastry or biscuit dough can be used instead of crescent roll dough for a different texture.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on the outside and the filling should be hot and melted inside. You can gently poke one with a knife to check.

Can I add spices or herbs to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to enhance the flavor.

What is the best way to reheat these rolls?

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave as it can make the rolls soggy.

Can I make mini crescent rolls?

Yes, just cut the dough into smaller triangles and reduce the baking time slightly.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, reduced-fat mayonnaise, and whole wheat crescent roll dough for a lighter version.

Are these rolls suitable for a picnic?

They’re perfect for picnics as they’re portable and delicious at room temperature.

Can I add bacon to the filling?

Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition.

What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a simple marinara sauce would all be great options.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a cheese and herb mixture.

How many rolls does this recipe make?

This recipe typically makes 8 crescent rolls, but it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Helpful Tips

Tip 1: Use a sharp knife to shred the chicken evenly. This ensures a uniform texture in the filling.

Tip 2: Warm the mayonnaise slightly before mixing. It helps blend the ingredients more smoothly.

Tip 3: Chill the dough slightly before assembling. It makes it easier to handle and roll up without sticking.

Tip 4: Add the cheese to the chicken while it’s still warm. It helps the cheese melt and blend into the filling.

Tip 5: Don’t overstuff the rolls. Too much filling can cause the dough to break or the filling to leak out.

Tip 6: Seal the edges of the dough well. Pressing the seams together with your fingers or a fork can prevent filling from escaping.

Tip 7: Experiment with different cheeses. Mixing a few types can add depth of flavor.

Tip 8: Add herbs to the dough. A sprinkle of dried herbs like oregano or thyme can add an extra layer of flavor.

Tip 9: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Tip 10: Brush the tops with melted butter. This gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish.

Tip 11: Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper. For a little heat, this is a great way to spice things up.

Tip 12: Double the recipe for a crowd. These rolls are a hit at gatherings and disappear quickly!

Tip 13: Serve with a dipping sauce. A simple ranch or honey mustard complements the flavors perfectly.

Tip 14: Make them ahead of time. Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Tip 15: Keep an eye on them while baking. Ovens can vary, so check a few minutes before the recommended time.

Tip 16: Use leftover chicken. This recipe is a great way to use up leftovers from a roast chicken or a rotisserie chicken.

Tip 17: Add a layer of cheese on top. Before baking, sprinkle a bit more cheese over the rolls for an extra cheesy crust.

Tip 18: Serve with a side salad. It balances the richness of the rolls and makes for a complete meal.

Tip 19: Try different fillings. Ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or turkey and cranberry are all delicious variations.

Tip 20: Store leftovers in the fridge. These rolls are just as good the next day, cold or reheated.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store in an airtight container. To keep the rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven. For the best results, reheat the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
Avoid microwaving. Microwaving can make the rolls soggy, so it’s best to reheat them in the oven.
Freeze for later. Assemble the rolls and freeze them before baking. They can be baked directly from frozen.
Label and date the container. This helps you keep track of how long the rolls have been stored.
Use a freezer bag. If freezing, place the rolls in a freezer bag with the air removed to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’ve frozen the rolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheat individually wrapped. Wrap each roll in foil before reheating to keep them moist.
Serve cold for a quick snack. These rolls are delicious even when eaten cold, straight from the fridge.
Refresh with a little butter. If the rolls seem a bit dry, brush them with melted butter before reheating.

Recipe Secrets

Use freshly shredded cheese. It melts better and gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese.
Mix the filling ahead of time. Allowing the filling to sit for a bit before assembling lets the flavors meld together.
Use high-quality mayonnaise. The better the mayo, the richer and creamier your filling will be.
Season the chicken well. If you’re cooking the chicken from scratch, season it well with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
Bake on a lower rack. This helps the rolls bake evenly, preventing the tops from browning too quickly.
Use a pizza cutter to separate the dough. It makes the job quick and ensures clean edges.
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to eat.
Add a pinch of sugar to the dough. It enhances the flavor of the crescent rolls.
Try a sprinkle of sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top. This adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling. It deepens the flavor and adds a savory kick.
Use a pastry brush to apply egg wash. This gives the rolls a beautiful, shiny finish.
Try adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling. It adds a delicious, smoky flavor.
Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey instead of chicken. It’s a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.
Add a bit of Dijon mustard to the filling. It adds a tangy note that pairs well with the chicken and cheese.
Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
Serve with homemade dipping sauces. A side of garlic aioli or herbed yogurt dip takes these rolls to the next level.
Experiment with different herbs in the filling. Dill, thyme, or chives can add a unique twist.
Don’t skip the Parmesan topping. It adds a wonderful savory crunch that complements the soft, flaky dough.
Serve as a main dish or appetizer. These rolls are versatile and can be the star of the meal or a tasty starter.
Get creative with leftovers. If you have leftover filling, use it to make a sandwich or wrap for lunch the next day.

Other Sections:

Pairing Suggestions:

These Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or a light vegetable medley. For a more indulgent meal, serve them alongside a rich, cheesy potato casserole or buttery mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Information:

Each serving (1 roll) contains approximately: