Introduction to Chicken Crescent Roll Ups
What are Chicken Crescent Roll Ups?
Chicken Crescent Roll Ups are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines savory shredded chicken, cheese, and seasonings wrapped inside soft, flaky crescent roll dough. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal preparation time. The tender, juicy chicken filling contrasts wonderfully with the crispy exterior of the crescent rolls, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for guests, these roll-ups are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this Chicken Crescent Roll Ups recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. The combination of the buttery crescent dough and flavorful chicken filling creates a satisfying dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to customize. You can use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience or spice things up by adding extra ingredients like ranch seasoning or vegetables. The recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even meal prep for lunch the next day.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
When time is limited and you need a meal that’s both tasty and quick, this recipe is the answer. It takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy parents or anyone who needs a stress-free dinner. The fact that the dough comes pre-made (thanks to crescent roll dough) means you save time on prep and focus on making the filling just right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Basic Ingredients
To make Chicken Crescent Roll Ups, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:
- Chicken: Chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works best. Rotisserie chicken can save you time, as it’s already cooked and can be shredded easily.
- Crescent Roll Dough: You can find crescent roll dough in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. It’s quick, convenient, and the dough puffs up perfectly when baked.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, adds a creamy and melty texture that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Flavor Enhancers
While the basic ingredients are delicious on their own, adding a few key flavor enhancers takes the recipe to the next level:
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, savory depth to the chicken mixture. You can also experiment with garlic salt for an extra flavor boost.
- Ranch Seasoning: This is optional but highly recommended. Ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own with dried herbs and spices.
- Cream Cheese: Mixing cream cheese into the chicken filling helps to create a creamy, rich texture that makes the roll-ups extra indulgent.
Optional Add-Ins
Feel free to get creative with the filling! Some optional ingredients to consider include:
- Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers give the roll-ups a slight crunch and a bit of sweetness.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Crescent Roll Ups
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by cooking your chicken if you’re using fresh chicken breasts. Simply season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Alternatively, use a rotisserie chicken for convenience — just shred it with a fork.
Once the chicken is shredded, combine it with shredded cheese, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. If you’re using optional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms, fold them into the mixture now. The result will be a creamy, flavorful filling that’s the perfect texture for rolling inside the crescent dough.
Step 2: Assemble the Crescent Roll Ups
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a clean surface, unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each triangle. Roll the dough around the filling tightly, starting from the wide end and rolling toward the point. Make sure the ends are tucked in to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking.
To ensure the rolls are neat and don’t unroll during baking, gently press the seams where the dough meets. You can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
Place the filled crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. For a shiny, golden finish, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking.
Once baked, allow the roll-ups to cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect for dinner, lunch, or even a snack, and they pair wonderfully with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Crescent Roll Ups
Make Ahead and Meal Prep
These Chicken Crescent Roll Ups can be prepared ahead of time for a quick meal during the week. You can prepare the chicken filling the night before, store it in the fridge, and assemble the roll-ups just before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls for up to three months. To bake from frozen, just place them in the oven and add a few extra minutes of baking time.
Customize Your Roll Ups
One of the best things about Chicken Crescent Roll Ups is how customizable they are. You can easily switch up the flavor of the filling by adding different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack. If you love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture. You can even swap out the ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a different twist.
Serving Ideas
While Chicken Crescent Roll Ups are delicious on their own, they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the roll-ups. You could also serve them with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is the most common meat used in this recipe, you can substitute it with other proteins like turkey, ham, or even ground beef. For a vegetarian version, try adding cooked beans or roasted vegetables as the filling.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, Chicken Crescent Roll Ups freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Crescent Roll Ups?
There are many sides that pair perfectly with Chicken Crescent Roll Ups. Consider serving them with:
A light salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens salad
Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or zucchini
Mashed potatoes or garlic bread for a hearty meal
Conclusion
Chicken Crescent Roll Ups are an easy and delicious dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a savory, satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes. Whether you follow the recipe as is or customize it to suit your tastes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight, and let us know how it tur
Chicken Crescent Roll Ups
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping ingredients)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Rolling pin (optional, for flattening dough)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- For the Roll-Ups:
- 1 can 8 oz refrigerated crescent roll dough (or crescent sheet)
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or your preferred cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese softened, for added creaminess
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach or broccoli optional, for added veggies
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
- For Serving:
- Ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Prepare the Filling :
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped spinach or broccoli (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups :
- Unroll the crescent dough on a clean surface. If using crescent rolls, separate into triangles. If using a crescent sheet, cut it into 8 equal rectangles.
- Flatten each piece of dough slightly with your hands or a rolling pin to make it easier to roll.
- Place about 1–2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle or rectangle. Spread it evenly but leave a small border around the edges.
- Roll up each piece of dough tightly, starting from the wider end, and seal the edges by pressing gently.
- Bake the Roll-Ups :
- Place the assembled roll-ups on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Space them evenly to allow for expansion while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve :
- Remove the roll-ups from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Substitute spinach or broccoli with other veggies like bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the filling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.