These Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and buttery crescent dough in a golden-brown, flaky roll. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, an easy appetizer, or a satisfying snack, these rolls check all the boxes!
With a crisp, flaky exterior and a rich, cheesy filling, every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for serving with a side of ranch, honey mustard, or even marinara sauce for an extra punch of taste. Make these once, and they’ll become a family favorite in no time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll.
- Roll up the crescents, starting from the wide end, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each roll with melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 rolls
History & Origin of Crescent Rolls
Crescent rolls have been a staple in American households for decades, but their origin can be traced back to France. Inspired by the classic croissant, these soft, buttery, and flaky pastries became widely popular in the United States when refrigerated dough was introduced by Pillsbury in the 1960s. Since then, crescent roll dough has been used in countless creative recipes, from sweet to savory, making it a versatile kitchen ingredient.
Pairing crescent rolls with cheese and chicken creates a comfort food favorite—a dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional chicken pastries and hand pies, turning them into an effortless, oven-baked treat.
Tips for Making Perfect Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for Convenience
Shredded rotisserie chicken works best for this recipe because it’s juicy and flavorful. You can also use leftover roasted or grilled chicken to make it even more convenient. - Choose the Right Cheese
While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra meltiness, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or Swiss for a mild, nutty flavor. - Add a Sauce for Extra Flavor
Mixing a little ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or honey mustard into the chicken mixture can take the flavor up a notch! - Brush the Tops with Butter
Brushing melted butter (or garlic butter) on top before baking ensures the crescent rolls turn golden brown and flaky. For added depth, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning before baking. - Use a Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper
This helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup. - Make it Crispy
If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the rolls on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of directly on parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls pair well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or sriracha mayo for extra flavor.
- Salads: A fresh Caesar salad, Greek salad, or coleslaw balances the richness of the rolls.
- Soups: Pair with chicken noodle soup, tomato basil soup, or creamy broccoli cheddar soup for a comforting meal.
- Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a side of sautéed green beans make great accompaniments.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for a crispier texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals, but this method may make the rolls softer.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Version: Add a little hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra heat.
- BBQ Chicken Rolls: Mix the chicken with BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Crescents: Toss the shredded chicken in Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing for a zesty twist.
- Bacon Ranch Chicken Rolls: Add crumbled bacon and a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or mashed chickpeas with cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flaky goodness makes it a favorite among kids.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different fillings and flavors to suit your taste.
What Makes These Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls Special?
These Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, shredded chicken, rich cheddar cheese, and a flaky, buttery crescent roll crust. The golden-brown exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy center, making every bite irresistibly delicious.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s simple, quick, and requires minimal ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or a tasty snack for kids and adults alike. These rolls are also highly customizable, so you can easily tweak them to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
How to Make This Recipe Even Better
Want to take these crescent rolls to the next level? Here are some expert tips:
Enhance the Flavor
- Add more seasoning: Toss the chicken in paprika, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Mix in fresh herbs: Try chopped parsley, chives, or basil for a fresh, aromatic boost.
- Use flavored cream cheese: Swap plain cream cheese for garlic and herb cream cheese for extra flavor.
Make Them Extra Crispy
- Double butter coating: Brush with melted butter before baking, and again as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Sprinkle toppings: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or sesame seeds before baking for a crispy finish.
Experiment with Fillings
- Cheese lovers: Add mozzarella or pepper jack for an even cheesier experience.
- Veggie twist: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
- Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls: Toss the shredded chicken in Buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
Best Occasions to Serve Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls
These crescent rolls are perfect for so many occasions:
Family Dinner: Serve them as a main dish with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup.
Game Day Snacks: These make the ultimate appetizer or finger food for watching sports with friends.
Potlucks & Parties: Easy to transport and always a hit with guests!
Lunchbox Favorite: Kids love them! Pack them in school lunchboxes for a fun, cheesy meal.
Quick Weeknight Meal: With minimal prep and a short baking time, these rolls are perfect for busy nights when you need dinner fast.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with These Crescent Rolls?
Since these cheesy chicken rolls are rich and savory, pairing them with lighter or refreshing sides balances out the flavors.
Best Side Dishes
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple arugula, spinach, or romaine salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Soup Pairings: They go great with tomato soup, creamy broccoli cheddar soup, or chicken noodle soup.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of grapes, berries, and citrus fruits complements the cheesy, buttery flavor.
Best Dipping Sauces
- Classic Ranch: A cool, creamy contrast to the cheesy rolls.
- Honey Mustard: Adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Perfect for enhancing the buttery flavor.
- Sriracha Mayo: For those who love a spicy kick!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls store and reheat well, so you can make a batch in advance and enjoy them later!
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Reheating Options
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes (best for maintaining crispiness).
- Air Fryer: 350°F for 3-5 minutes (gives a perfect golden crust).
- Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals, though this may soften the rolls.
Common Questions About This Recipe
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake as usual when ready.
2. Can I use homemade dough instead of crescent roll dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use homemade pastry dough or puff pastry instead of store-bought crescent roll dough.
3. Are these crescent rolls gluten-free?
Traditional crescent roll dough contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free crescent roll dough alternatives in specialty stores or online.
4. How do I make these rolls vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, mashed chickpeas, or roasted butternut squash for a vegetarian version.
5. Can I add more protein?
Yes! You can add crumbled bacon, shredded turkey, or diced ham to increase the protein content.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish, these Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are a must-try! With their buttery, flaky crust and gooey, cheesy filling, they are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.
The best part? They’re customizable, quick to prepare, and freezer-friendly, making them an excellent option for busy days. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer, these crescent rolls always deliver big flavors with minimal effort!
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls are the perfect combination of flaky, buttery dough and a creamy, cheesy chicken filling, making them an easy yet delicious dish for any occasion. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, or a comforting snack, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Not only are these crescent rolls versatile and customizable, but they also pair well with various sides and dipping sauces, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste. Plus, with simple storage and reheating options, you can enjoy them fresh or save them for later.
No matter how you serve them, these crescent rolls are sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth, comfort, and cheesy goodness to your table every time. Try them today and experience the ultimate homemade treat!