Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are the perfect combination of tender, flavorful chicken wrapped in flaky, buttery crescent rolls. This dish is easy to make and is ideal for a quick dinner, appetizer, or even a satisfying snack. The creamy filling made from chicken, cream cheese, and cheddar is rich and comforting, while the crescent rolls add a delightful crispiness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened: This adds creaminess to the filling.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- ¼ cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, slightly spicy bite to the filling.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls: These form the crispy, golden-brown exterior of the rolls.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crescent rolls bake evenly and become golden brown.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir Well:
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined, and the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
3. Assemble the Crescent Rolls:
- Unroll Crescent Dough:
- Open the cans of crescent rolls and unroll the dough on a flat surface. Separate the dough into individual triangles along the perforated lines.
- Add Filling:
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling the dough difficult.
- Roll Up:
- Starting from the wide end, roll up the dough around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to ensure the filling is sealed inside.
- Place on Baking Sheet:
- Arrange the stuffed crescent rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Ensure they are spaced apart so they can bake evenly.
4. Bake the Rolls:
- Bake in Oven:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Check for Doneness:
- The crescent rolls should be puffed up and golden on the outside. The cheese inside should be melted, and the filling should be hot.
5. Serve:
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.
- Serve Warm:
- These stuffed crescent rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara.
Tips for Success:
- Cooked Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken works well, but you can also use poached, grilled, or baked chicken. Just be sure it’s shredded finely.
- Softening Cream Cheese: To soften the cream cheese quickly, leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.
- Overfilling the Rolls: Avoid overfilling the crescent rolls as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Use just enough filling to comfortably roll the dough.
- Additional Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the filling mixture.
FAQs:
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Can I freeze the baked rolls? Absolutely. Once baked, allow the rolls to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-12 minutes.
- What can I serve with these rolls? These rolls pair well with a variety of sides such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a warm soup. They also make a great snack or appetizer on their own.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are a versatile and easy-to-make dish that is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or a snack, these rolls are deliciously satisfying. The combination of creamy, cheesy chicken filling and crispy crescent roll dough makes for a comfort food classic that everyone will love.
