Golden, buttery, and filled with creamy, cheesy chicken goodness—these Chicken-Stuffed Crescent Rolls are the ultimate comfort food in finger-food form. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a make-ahead lunchbox treat, this dish delivers both flavor and satisfaction. Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, it’s a family favorite you’ll make on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Wrap:
- 1 can crescent roll dough (8-count)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and softened cream cheese.
- Add in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the milk and stir until all ingredients are well mixed and creamy.
- Tip: If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash more milk for smoother texture.
Assemble the Crescent Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate into 8 individual triangles.
- Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture (about 2 tablespoons) onto the wide end of each triangle.
- Gently roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end and rolling toward the narrow tip. Tuck the edges in slightly to keep the filling sealed.
- Arrange the stuffed rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
Bake to Perfection
- Place the rolls in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These warm, cheesy rolls pair beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad
- Tomato soup or chicken noodle soup
- Fresh fruit for a balanced lunch
- Ranch or marinara sauce for dipping
You can also slice them in half and serve as part of a party platter for guests to enjoy.
Recipe Variations
1. Add Veggies
Chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers can be folded into the chicken mixture for extra nutrition.
2. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicier version.
3. Swap the Cheese
Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or even Swiss to switch up the flavor profile.
4. Make It Sweet and Savory
Add a small spoon of cranberry sauce to the filling before rolling for a Thanksgiving-inspired twist.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead:
Prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.
To Store:
Place cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–8 minutes or microwave on medium power for about 30–45 seconds.
To Freeze:
Once baked and cooled, wrap rolls individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
Tips for the Best Chicken-Stuffed Crescent Rolls
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the dough to split during baking.
- Seal Well: Pinch the seams of the dough to prevent leaks.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: This allows the filling to set and avoids burns from molten cheese.
- Brushed Top (Optional): Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley or grated Parmesan before baking for a golden, flavorful finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain it well and shred with a fork before mixing.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt, ricotta, or even sour cream for a tangy, creamy texture, though the consistency and flavor will vary.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Ensure the edges are properly sealed and avoid overfilling. Press the dough around the filling to secure it inside.
Can I prepare them ahead of time and bake later?
Yes. Assemble the rolls, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake just before serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked lentils for a hearty meat-free option.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Very much so! The creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in soft crescent dough is something most kids enjoy. You can also adjust seasonings to suit milder palates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken-Stuffed Crescent Rolls are more than just a quick recipe—they’re a crowd-pleaser that blends creamy chicken filling with the irresistible flakiness of crescent rolls. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, they’re perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights. And with all the ways you can customize the filling, they never get boring.