Delight your taste buds with our mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake. This comforting dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, gooey cheddar cheese, and savory broccoli, all wrapped up in flaky crescent rolls. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings and bring smiles to the table. Join us as we dive into the world of cheesy goodness and discover the simple joy of Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake!
Ingredients:
For the Bake:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, meat removed and cut into bite-size pieces
- 8 extra-large crescent rolls
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided in half
- 1 bag frozen broccoli steamers, cooked and chopped into bite-size pieces
For the Sauce:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 1/2 ounces)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Remove the meat from the rotisserie chicken and cut it into bite-size pieces. Cook the frozen broccoli steamers according to the package instructions and chop them into bite-size pieces.
- Assemble the Bake: Unroll the crescent rolls and arrange them in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing the seams together to form a single layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the crescent roll layer. Layer the cooked chicken and chopped broccoli on top of the cheese.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream (if using) until smooth. Stir in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Pour Sauce Over the Bake: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli layer, ensuring that it covers the entire surface of the bake.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the bake, such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach. Get creative and tailor the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute cooked turkey, ham, or even shredded pork in this recipe. The cheesy sauce pairs well with a variety of proteins, so feel free to experiment!
- Add a Kick of Heat: For a spicy twist, stir in a tablespoon of diced green chilies or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture. The added heat will complement the creamy cheese sauce and add a delicious kick to the dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: To make a keto-friendly version of Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake, omit the crescent rolls and replace them with a low-carb alternative such as cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage. Use full-fat dairy products and skip the cream of chicken soup to reduce the carb count.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of crescent rolls used in the recipe and increase the proportion of chicken and vegetables to create a lower-carb version of this dish. You can also use a low-carb cream of chicken soup or make a homemade sauce using chicken broth and heavy cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli steamers? A: Yes, you can use fresh broccoli florets in place of frozen broccoli steamers. Simply blanch or steam the broccoli until tender before adding it to the bake.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake for future enjoyment. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container before freezing. To reheat, thaw the bake in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in the sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Colby. Customize the recipe to suit your cheese preferences and taste preferences.
Q: What can I serve with this dish? A: Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Serve with your favorite condiments or dipping sauces for added flavor.
In conclusion, Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful broccoli, this bake is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether served as a family dinner or as part of a potluck spread, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the deliciousness of Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake today!
