If you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious appetizer or snack, these Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are the perfect choice. Combining the creamy, savory flavors of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, all wrapped in a golden, buttery crescent roll, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a party, need a tasty treat for game day, or want a simple yet satisfying snack for the family, these stuffed crescent rolls are guaranteed to impress. Let's dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.
Ingredients
Here is a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls:
- 1 can (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough: The base of our recipe, providing a buttery and flaky exterior that bakes to a golden brown perfection.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: The main protein component, adding heartiness and flavor. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breast.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich, creamy texture and slight tanginess that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a melty, cheesy layer that enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a bit of freshness to balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Brushed on top of the crescent rolls before baking to create a beautiful golden-brown finish and add extra flavor.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create delicious and easy Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls that are perfect for any occasion:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, which helps the crescent rolls cook evenly and achieve a golden brown color.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The cream cheese helps to bind the filling together, making it easier to stuff the crescent rolls.
Step 3: Prepare Crescent Rolls
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Place the dough on a clean surface or a baking sheet. This makes it easy to add the filling and roll them up without making a mess.
Step 4: Fill Crescent Rolls
Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on the wide end of each triangle. Be careful not to overfill, as this could cause the filling to spill out during baking. Roll up each crescent from the wide end to the tip, ensuring that the filling is securely enclosed. This step is crucial for achieving neat, well-formed rolls.
Step 5: Roll and Arrange
Arrange the filled crescent rolls on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for expansion during baking. The crescent rolls will puff up slightly, so give them enough space to do so.
Step 6: Brush with Butter
Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. This adds a beautiful sheen and extra flavor to the rolls, making them even more irresistible.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the crescent rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a side of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping. These rolls are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
Enjoying your Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls is easy with these serving and storage tips. Proper storage ensures that you can savor this delicious dish even as leftovers:
- Serving: Serve the Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls warm, straight from the oven. They pair wonderfully with a side of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping. For added flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives on top before serving.
- Storage: Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls and make them your own:
- Additional Fillings: Try adding chopped bacon, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or spicy pepper jack.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh basil, thyme, or cilantro for a unique twist.