Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls

Naomi

Everyday Culinary Delights 👩‍🍳

 

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flaky crescent rolls. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Its appeal lies in the comforting blend of flavors and textures, which can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Many home cooks appreciate this recipe for its straightforward preparation and consistent results, as reflected in numerous positive reviews and high ratings. Users often praise its ability to please both children and adults, highlighting its role as a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal solution or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls offer a reliable and delicious option.

Ingredients Overview

Primary Ingredients

  • Chicken: Typically, cooked and shredded chicken breast is used. It provides a lean protein base and melds well with other flavors.
  • Crescent Rolls: These flaky, buttery rolls serve as the perfect wrapping for the cheesy chicken filling. They bake up golden and crispy.
  • Cheese: Shredded cheese, often a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, adds gooeyness and richness to the filling.
  • Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese contributes to the creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: This soup, often condensed, is mixed with milk to create a creamy sauce that coats the rolls during baking.
  • Seasonings: Common seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the overall taste.

Possible Substitutions and Alternatives

  • Chicken: Substitute with cooked turkey, ham, or a plant-based chicken alternative for a vegetarian option.
  • Crescent Rolls: Use puff pastry or phyllo dough for a different texture and flavor.
  • Cheese: Any meltable cheese like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
  • Cream Cheese: Replace with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom or celery soup, or make a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and flour.

Step-by-Step Preparation 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Tip: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

  • Ingredients: Cooked and shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Instructions: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure the cream cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

  • Instructions: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
  • Tip: Work on a lightly floured surface to prevent the dough from sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

  • Instructions: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each crescent roll triangle. Roll the dough starting from the wide end, tucking in the sides as you go.
  • Tip: Do not overfill the rolls to avoid spillage during baking. Pinch the seams to ensure they are sealed.

Step 5: Arrange and Bake

  • Instructions: Arrange the filled crescent rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Tip: Leave enough space between each roll to allow for even baking.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

  • Ingredients: Cream of chicken soup and milk.
  • Instructions: In a small bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth.
  • Tip: Warm the mixture slightly to make it easier to pour over the rolls.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

  • Instructions: Pour the soup mixture over the arranged crescent rolls, ensuring each roll is covered.
  • Tip: Use a spoon to distribute the sauce evenly if necessary.

Step 8: Final Bake

  • Instructions: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
  • Tip: Check halfway through baking to ensure even browning and rotate the baking sheet if needed.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

  • Instructions: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
  • Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  • Overfilling the Rolls: This can cause the filling to leak out. Use a moderate amount of filling.
  • Not Sealing the Edges: Unsealed edges can cause the rolls to open up during baking. Ensure all seams are tightly pinched.
  • Uneven Baking: Ensure the oven is fully preheated and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Cooking Instructions

Baking Temperature and Time

  • Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Time: Bake the Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

  • Even Baking: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the rolls inside to promote even cooking.
  • Proper Sealing: Pinch the seams of the crescent rolls tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
  • Space Rolls Properly: Arrange the rolls with enough space between them on the baking sheet to allow for air circulation and even baking.

How to Tell When the Dish is Done

  • Visual Cues: The crescent rolls should be golden brown and the sauce should be bubbly.
  • Texture Check: The rolls should feel firm to the touch but not hard. The cheese inside should be melted and the chicken heated through.
  • Internal Temperature: If using a food thermometer, the internal temperature of the chicken filling should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Variations and Customizations

Alternative Ingredients

  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, Gouda, or a spicy Pepper Jack to change the flavor profile.
  • Adding Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and texture.
  • Protein Substitutes: Use cooked turkey, ham, or tofu for a different protein source. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based chicken substitute.

Dietary Modifications

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of crescent rolls.
  • Low-Fat Options: Choose low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat shredded cheese, and a light version of cream of chicken soup to reduce the calorie content.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy ingredients with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk cream cheese, vegan shredded cheese, and a dairy-free cream of chicken soup.

Creative Twists

  • Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices such as paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture.
  • Changing the Sauce: Instead of cream of chicken soup, try using Alfredo sauce, a tomato-based sauce, or a homemade béchamel sauce for a unique twist.
  • Buffalo Chicken: Add Buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture and use blue cheese or ranch dressing as a dip for a spicy variation.
  • Herbs and Aromatics: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can add a burst of freshness. Sautéed garlic and onions can deepen the flavor.

Serving Suggestions 

Side Dishes That Complement the Rolls

  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the rolls.
  • Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add color and nutrition.
  • Soup: A light soup, such as tomato or vegetable, pairs well for a comforting meal.

Beverage Pairings

  • Wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy filling.
  • Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a light iced tea provides a refreshing contrast.

Presentation Tips

  • Plating: Arrange the rolls on a platter lined with fresh herbs or greens for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Garnishing: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for added color and flavor.
  • Serving: Serve warm with a side of dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara, for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating 

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Place leftover rolls in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Separation: If possible, store the rolls separately from the sauce to prevent sogginess.

How to Reheat for Optimal Taste and Texture

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
  • Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, though this may result in a softer texture.

Tips for Freezing and Thawing

  • Freezing: Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Health and Nutrition Information 

Calorie Count and Nutritional Breakdown

A typical serving of Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. Each roll includes around 15-20 grams of protein, 20-25 grams of carbohydrates, and 15-20 grams of fat.

Tips for Making the Dish Healthier

  • Lower Fat Content: Use reduced-fat cheese, light cream cheese, and a low-fat cream of chicken soup.
  • Increase Fiber: Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the filling.
  • Whole Grain: Use whole-grain crescent rolls if available.

Portion Control Suggestions

  • Serving Size: One roll per person is typically sufficient as part of a meal, especially when served with side dishes.
  • Balanced Meal: Pair with a salad or vegetables to create a balanced meal and avoid overeating.

FAQ Section 

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes, you can use various types of chicken for this recipe. Cooked and shredded chicken breast is common, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cooked chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, cooked turkey can be substituted. For a vegetarian version, try a plant-based chicken substitute.

What if I don’t have crescent rolls?

If you don’t have crescent rolls, you can use alternatives such as puff pastry or phyllo dough. Both will provide a different texture but can work well with the filling. Another option is to make a simple homemade dough. Puff pastry will give you a flakier texture, while phyllo dough will be lighter and crispier.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

To make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken filling and assemble the rolls, then place them on a baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, pour the sauce over the rolls and bake as directed. If you plan to freeze the assembled rolls, wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion 

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Their simple preparation and customizable ingredients make them a favorite among home cooks. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe and share your results with friends and family.

 

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Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls


  • Author: Christine

Description

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls combine tender chicken, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent rolls into a comforting, easy-to-make dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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

  • Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the filling for a unique twist.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the rolls and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake for convenience.
  • Serving: These rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, and pair well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

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