Crescent and Chicken Roll-Ups are the ultimate comfort food: warm, creamy, cheesy, and wrapped in a buttery crescent dough that bakes up golden and flaky. This recipe is not only quick and simple to prepare, but it’s also flexible, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or need a make-ahead meal, this dish delivers both flavor and convenience.
Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious Crescent and Chicken Roll-Ups from scratch with everyday ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 can crescent roll dough (8 rolls)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the crescent dough becomes golden and crispy while the cheese inside melts perfectly.
Make the Chicken Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed. This creamy mixture forms the rich, savory core of each roll-up.
Prepare the Crescent Dough
Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface. Gently separate it into the 8 individual triangles along the perforated lines.
Using a spoon, place a generous portion of the chicken mixture on the wide end of each triangle. Don’t overload the dough—just enough to fill without making it hard to roll.
Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top of the chicken filling. Try to distribute about 2 tablespoons per triangle.
Roll and Assemble
Starting from the wide end, roll each crescent triangle tightly around the filling toward the point. Seal the sides gently by pinching the edges to keep the mixture inside during baking.
Place each rolled crescent seam-side down into a lightly greased baking dish. Arrange them so they’re snug but not touching.
Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops of the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted and bubbly at the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow the roll-ups to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This rest time helps the filling set and makes the roll-ups easier to handle.
Serve and Enjoy
You can enjoy these Crescent and Chicken Roll-Ups as is, or elevate them with a simple garnish like freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve them warm with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a snack with dipping sauces.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s a fast, flavorful shortcut that saves cooking time and adds extra depth to the filling.
- Add a Veggie Boost: Mix in finely diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach to add color and nutrition to the filling.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or Pepper Jack also melt beautifully and can add different flavor twists.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a punch of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the roll-ups earlier in the day, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Great for meal planning.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the baked roll-ups. Wrap them individually and reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick meal.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Roll-Up)
Please note these are approximate values and may vary depending on the brand and quantity of ingredients used.
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheese, low-fat crescent dough, or a homemade chicken soup substitute.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette for balance.
- Serve alongside steamed green beans, broccoli, or roasted carrots for a full meal.
- Add a side of ranch, honey mustard, or spicy buffalo dip for even more flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to crisp them up again. Avoid the microwave if you want to retain the flaky crust.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, canned chicken works fine. Drain it well and shred before mixing with the soup and broth.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery, or make your own with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk for a homemade alternative.
Can I add vegetables inside the roll-ups?
Absolutely! Add cooked and chopped veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sautéed onions to the filling for added flavor and nutrients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Use a plant-based chicken substitute or just add sautéed vegetables and cheese. Also, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a dairy-free alternative.
How do I keep the roll-ups from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling and make sure your chicken is not too watery. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding to the dough to help prevent moisture buildup.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Use a larger casserole dish or two smaller ones and bake in batches if necessary. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
Final Thoughts
Crescent and Chicken Roll-Ups are the kind of dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. They strike the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy goodness and crisp, golden pastry. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers maximum comfort in every bite. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable—from the cheese and seasonings to added veggies or sauces.
Whether you’re whipping up dinner on a hectic Tuesday or need a shareable appetizer for a casual get-together, these roll-ups are a reliable go-to that never disappoints.