Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped in soft, flaky crescent rolls. This recipe is a family favorite due to its comforting flavors and quick preparation time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The versatility of these rolls allows them to be enjoyed as a snack, lunch, or even a casual dinner. Whether served on their own or paired with sides, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

Brief History of Crescent Rolls

Crescent rolls have been a staple in American cuisine since their introduction in the 20th century, popularized by brands like Pillsbury. These pre-made, doughy delights offered a convenient way for home cooks to create buttery, flaky pastries without the time-consuming process of making dough from scratch. Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls embody the essence of American comfort food by combining rich, savory ingredients into a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The warm, cheesy filling and soft pastry exterior make it a quintessential comfort food, perfect for cozy family meals.

Nutritional Overview

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a rich, satisfying dish that packs a caloric punch, making it a hearty meal option. A typical serving contains a significant amount of calories due to the combination of buttery crescent rolls, creamy cheese, and chicken filling. Key nutritional components include high-quality protein from the chicken, fats from the cheese and crescent rolls, and carbohydrates from the pastry. While indulgent, these rolls can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation and paired with lighter sides like a fresh salad.

Essential Ingredients

The essential ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls include cooked chicken, crescent roll dough, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and cream of chicken soup. These components work together to create a creamy, flavorful filling encased in a soft, flaky pastry.

For alternatives, you can substitute turkey for chicken or use different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors. High-quality ingredients are crucial for this dish, as they ensure the best texture and taste—especially fresh chicken and premium cheeses, which enhance the overall richness and satisfaction of the meal.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Gather Ingredients and Preheat Oven

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a medium bowl, combine cooked, shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Stir in the cream of chicken soup until everything is well blended. The mixture should be creamy and evenly combined.

3. Prepare the Crescent Rolls

• Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface, separating each triangle. If you prefer larger rolls, you can press two triangles together to form a rectangle.

4. Add Filling and Roll

• Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each crescent roll triangle. Carefully roll the dough from the wide end to the pointed tip, ensuring the filling stays inside. The dough should be wrapped snugly but not too tightly to allow for even cooking.

5. Arrange and Bake

• Place the filled rolls seam-side down on a greased or lined baking sheet. This prevents them from unrolling during baking. For an extra golden finish, brush the tops with a bit of melted butter or an egg wash.

6. Bake Until Golden

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed up and golden brown. The tops should be slightly crispy, and the cheese should be bubbling through the seams.

7. Tips for Perfect Results

• Rolling Technique: Ensure you roll the crescent dough evenly, without stretching it too thin, to avoid tears that could lead to filling leaks.
• Sauce Consistency: If the filling seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve a creamier texture. If too runny, allow it to cool slightly before filling the rolls.
• Visual Appeal: For an appealing finish, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top of the rolls during the last few minutes of baking. This creates a bubbly, golden topping that adds to the dish’s visual and textural appeal.

8. Serving

• Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. This will allow the filling to set, making the rolls easier to handle and eat.

Variations and Customizations

Adding Vegetables

To incorporate vegetables into your Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls, consider adding finely chopped broccoli or mushrooms to the filling. These vegetables add both nutrition and texture. Make sure to cook the vegetables slightly before adding them to avoid excess moisture, which could make the rolls soggy. You can also mix in other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for additional flavor and color.

Alternative Seasoning Options

For a flavor twist, try mixing in a packet of Ranch seasoning into the filling. This adds a tangy, herbaceous note that complements the creaminess of the cheese. You could also sprinkle crispy bacon bits into the filling for a savory, smoky flavor. Other seasoning options include garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Modifying for Dietary Restrictions

If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crescent roll dough, which can be found in specialty stores or online. For a low-fat option, substitute low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat shredded cheese. You can also use cooked turkey instead of chicken, as it tends to be leaner. If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium cream of chicken soup or make your own at home. For those avoiding dairy, there are dairy-free cheese and cream cheese options available that can easily be used in this recipe.

Pairing and Serving Ideas

Suggested Side Dishes

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast, while roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide a healthy, savory complement. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a baked potato or a bowl of tomato soup.

Serving for Different Occasions

For a family dinner, serve these rolls with the suggested sides for a complete, satisfying meal. They also work well as a centerpiece for a casual potluck—easy to transport and share. If serving at a party, consider making mini versions for a convenient, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the rolls have cooled completely before sealing them to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Reheating for Best Texture and Flavor

For the best results, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy.

Freezing and Make-Ahead Instructions

To freeze, assemble the rolls but do not bake them. Place the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Potential Issues

1. Undercooked Rolls: If the rolls are doughy or undercooked in the center, it’s likely due to uneven rolling or overcrowding on the baking sheet.Solution: Ensure rolls are spaced apart and bake at the correct temperature. Consider covering them with foil if the tops brown too quickly.
2. Dry Chicken: Overcooked or dry chicken can make the filling less enjoyable.Solution: Use freshly cooked or well-moistened shredded chicken. Mixing a bit of extra cream cheese or soup can help maintain moisture.

FAQs

How long can I store these crescent rolls?

You can store Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 2 months.

Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, canned chicken can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh chicken. Just make sure to drain it well and mix it thoroughly with the other ingredients to ensure even flavor distribution.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can make a quick substitute using a combination of milk, chicken broth, and flour. Alternatively, cream of mushroom or celery soup can also work in a pinch, adding a slightly different flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free crescent roll dough, which is available in many grocery stores. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like the cream of chicken soup, are also certified gluten-free.

Can I add other fillings like ham or spinach?

Yes, you can customize the filling by adding ingredients like chopped ham, cooked spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms. These additions can enhance the flavor and texture, making the dish more diverse and tailored to your preferences.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines creamy, savory flavors wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Their appeal lies in their versatility and the comfort they bring to any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, a family dinner, or a party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations—adding vegetables, changing up the cheese, or adjusting for dietary needs—to make the recipe your own. Each twist adds a new dimension to this classic favorite.

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Roll Bake

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• Author: Christine

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Description

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a rich sauce, all wrapped in soft, golden crescent rolls. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any meal and is sure to be a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken *boneless/skinless, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese *shredded
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
• 10.5 oz milk *use soup can
• 2 packages crescent rolls *8 count packages
• 2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoon Oregano

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Instructions

• Place cooked/shredded chicken in a bowl and add in 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
• Sprinkle some garlic powder and Oregano on top of chicken and stir to coat thoroughly.
• Unroll each crescent roll. Scoop about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture and place towards bottom of crescent roll (the wide part). Slowly roll the crescent roll up with chicken/cheese inside. Continue process until all crescent rolls are stuffed.
• Place in a 9×13 baking pan.
• Next, heat remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, and milk over the stove until melted and warm.
• Pour mixture on top of crescent rolls, coating entirely.
• Place pan into a preheated oven, 350, and bake for about 30-40 minutes.
• Once cooked, the crescents should be somewhat brown and the mixture should be bubbly! Serve!

Notes

• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or switch up the cheese to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These rolls can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days.