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These easy chicken stuffed crescent rolls come together quickly to deliver a comforting meal or snack that everyone will love. The buttery crescent dough wraps around a creamy, cheesy chicken filling that bakes to golden perfection in just minutes. This recipe is fantastic for dinner, appetizers, or prepping ahead to enjoy later.
I first made these crescent rolls when looking for a last-minute game day snack. They disappeared from the plate faster than I expected, and now they are a regular request for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Crescent roll dough: provides the flaky, buttery base use fresh refrigerated dough for best texture
- Cooked shredded chicken: the hearty protein that fills these rolls rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and moisture
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts perfectly to give a creamy, tangy bite
- Mayonnaise: blends the filling ingredients and keeps it moist and creamy
- Chopped green onions: add mild, fresh sharpness to balance the richness
- Garlic powder: infuses subtle warmth and depth to the filling
- Black pepper: brings a mild heat to complement the cheese and chicken
- Grated Parmesan cheese: sprinkled on top for a flavorful crisp finish once baked
- Fresh parsley (optional): adds color and fresh herbaceous note as a garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Prepare the chicken filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is evenly coated and creamy.
- Shape the crescents:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently separate it into 8 individual triangles. On each triangle, spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the wide base.
- Roll and seal:
- Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle toward the pointed end, tucking the edges slightly to make sure the filling stays sealed during baking.
- Add the finishing touch:
- Place all the rolled crescents on your lined baking sheet. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops to add a savory crust as they bake.
- Bake until golden:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, checking for a beautiful golden brown color on the rolls.
- Garnish and serve:
- Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like before serving.
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The first time I made these crescent rolls, the aroma filled the kitchen and brought back memories of cozy family dinners. The best part is how easily the filling sticks together without making the dough soggy.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to revive the crispness. For longer storage, freeze the fully baked rolls in a freeze-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen by baking for 15 to 20 minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter version, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or cream cheese for creaminess with fewer calories. Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder flavor that melts beautifully. Try finely chopped bell peppers or cooked mushrooms in place of green onions for a different vegetable note. For a dairy-free option, opt for vegan crescent dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these crescent rolls with a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal. They work great as finger food at parties accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard. Serve with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw to add fresh crunch and balance the richness.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overfill the rolls or the filling might leak during baking
- I learned the hard way to tuck the edges well so the crescent shape holds up and the filling stays inside
- For extra golden tops, brush rolls with melted butter or an egg wash before sprinkling on Parmesan cheese
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best for stuffing?
Using shredded rotisserie chicken offers moist, flavorful meat that blends well with the creamy filling for best results.
- → Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking to save time.
- → How do I ensure the rolls turn golden and crispy?
Brushing the tops with melted butter or an egg wash before baking helps develop a beautiful golden crust.
- → Are there variations to the filling?
Adding ranch seasoning or swapping cheddar for another cheese like mozzarella can add new flavor twists.
- → What's the best way to store leftovers?
Fully baked rolls can be frozen and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to restore crispness.
- → Can I add fresh herbs to the filling?
Chopped fresh parsley or herbs like chives brighten the flavor and complement the creamy chicken mixture.