Chicken crescent rolls are a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, party appetizers, or even a quick lunch. These flaky rolls are stuffed with a creamy, savory chicken filling that’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like cheese, veggies, or spices.
The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make with store-bought crescent dough, making them a time-saving recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a quick family meal, these chicken crescent rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.
In this post, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe, offer tips for perfect rolls, share creative variations, and answer frequently asked questions to help you make the best chicken crescent rolls at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Crescent Rolls
Making chicken crescent rolls is quick and easy, and it has a handful of simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious, cheesy snack or meal:
Crescent Rolls
- Use store-bought crescent roll dough for a quick and hassle-free preparation. Crescent roll dough is buttery and flaky and bakes perfectly golden, making it the ideal base for this recipe.
Chicken
- Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds excellent flavor.
- Alternatively, you can use cooked and shredded chicken breast if you prefer homemade.
- You can even use leftover chicken from a previous meal for extra convenience.
Cheese
- Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling.
- You can also mix in cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Feel free to combine different cheeses to create your unique flavor profile.
Seasonings
- Add garlic, onion, salt, and pepper to season the filling and enhance the overall flavor.
- Consider adding a dash of paprika or Italian seasoning to the mixture for an extra kick.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped spinach for a healthy twist.
- Bacon bits for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Jalapeños for a spicy kick, perfect for those who love the heat.
Pro Tip
Use freshly shredded chicken instead of canned chicken for the best texture and flavor. Freshly shredded chicken retains its juiciness and blends perfectly with the cheesy filling, making each bite more satisfying.
How to Make Chicken Crescent Rolls
Follow these simple steps to make crispy chicken crescent rolls. The outsides are packed with creamy, savory filling. This recipe is quick and easy and perfect for busy weeknights or as a party appetizer.
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Combine the Chicken Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded chicken
- Cream cheese
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Mix until the ingredients are well combined, and the filling is creamy and smooth.
Unroll the Crescent Dough and Add Filling
- Unroll the crescent dough and divide it into separate triangles.
- Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture into the center of each triangle.
Roll Up the Crescent Rolls
- Start rolling from the wide end of each triangle and roll towards the narrow tip.
- Place each rolled crescent on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
Bake the Crescent Rolls
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Check for a crispy, flaky crust, and ensure the filling is hot and bubbly.
Pro Tip
Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with melted butter before baking for an extra golden, flaky finish. For added flavor, sprinkle them with a pinch of garlic powder or Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Crescent Rolls
Want to make your chicken crescent rolls even more delicious and foolproof? Follow these tips and tricks to achieve the perfect rolls every time, from a golden crust to a flavorful filling.
Prevent Leaks
One of the most common challenges when making crescent rolls is preventing the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Tip: Ensure that the edges of each roll are sealed tightly by pinching the dough together at the seams.
- You can also tuck in the sides of the crescent dough before rolling for an extra-secure seal.
Even Baking
For consistent results, make sure the crescent rolls bake evenly.
- Tip: Space the rolls evenly on the baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
- This allows the hot air to circulate and ensures that all the rolls cook uniformly.
Customize the Filling
Add your favorite ingredients to the filling to make your chicken crescent rolls more exciting.
- Try Chopped spinach, diced jalapeños, bacon bits, or shredded carrots for added flavor and texture.
- Season to taste: Add spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to match your flavor preference.
Pro Tip
Give the rolls a few minutes to cool before serving. This prevents the hot filling from burning your mouth and allows the flavors to settle for a better-tasting bite.
Creative Variations for Chicken Crescent Rolls
Try these creative variations to elevate your chicken crescent rolls. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a veggie-packed filling, or a smoky BBQ twist, everyone can enjoy a version.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls
Add buffalo sauce to the filling and sprinkle in crumbled blue cheese for a spicy and tangy twist.
- How to Make: Mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, and buffalo sauce, then top with blue cheese before rolling.
- Serving Idea: Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Creamy Spinach and Chicken Rolls
Trying to find a clever way to add more veggies? This creamy, flavorful, and nutritious spinach and ricotta cheese version is perfect.
- How to Make: Add chopped spinach and ricotta cheese to the chicken mixture for a veggie-packed filling.
- Serving Idea: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for a delicious dipping option.
BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls
Swap out the classic cream cheese filling for a smoky BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese for a Southern-inspired flavor.
- How to Make: Combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and shredded cheddar cheese, then roll and bake.
- Serving Idea: Serve with coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a meat-free version.
- How to Make: Sauté mushrooms with garlic and seasonings or crumbled tofu seasoned with your favorite spices.
- Serving Idea: Pair with a creamy dipping sauce or ranch dressing.
Pro Tip
Try using different cheeses, such as gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss, to create unique flavor profiles that complement your favorite fillings.
FAQs and Storage Tips for Chicken Crescent Rolls
Do you have questions about making and storing chicken crescent rolls? Here are some frequently asked questions and storage tips to help you keep your rolls fresh and delicious.
FAQs
How long do I bake chicken crescent rolls?
- Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) or until they are golden brown on top and the filling is hot.
Can I make chicken crescent rolls ahead of time?
- Yes! The rolls can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for prepping for a party or busy weeknight dinner.
Can I freeze chicken crescent rolls?
- Yes! Unbaked rolls can be frozen and baked straight from the freezer. Increase baking by a few minutes to ensure the filling is thoroughly heated.
Storage Tips
- Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness of the crescent rolls.
- Avoid microwaving the rolls, as this can make them soggy.
Pro Tip
To simplify meal prep, freeze pre-portioned scoops of the chicken filling for later use. When ready to bake, use fresh crescent dough and assemble the rolls for a hassle-free meal.Trying to find a clever way to add more veggies?
Conclusion
Making chicken crescent rolls at home is easy. With minimal effort, you can create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort. With a flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, these rolls are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday parties.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations, adding your favorite spices, sauces, or cheeses to the filling. Whether you prefer classic chicken and cream cheese or a spicy buffalo twist, there’s a version of this recipe for everyone.
Now it’s your turn! Try out the recipe, customize it to your liking, and let us know how it turns out. Share your tips, questions, or photos in the comments below, or tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
Chicken Crescent Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 can crescent roll dough
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
- Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each triangle.
- Roll up each triangle starting from the wide end and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with melted butter for an extra golden, flaky crust.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving.
