Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Chicken Crescent Roll Ups offer a tantalizing twist on a classic dish, combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, and savory seasonings, all wrapped up in flaky crescent roll dough. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a satisfying snack, or a delicious main course, these roll ups are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these heavenly delights in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for brushing)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, finely diced onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Roll Ups:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles along the perforated lines.
- Spoon a generous portion of the chicken and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle.
- Starting from the wide end, roll up each crescent roll, enclosing the filling inside. Place the roll ups seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Butter (Optional):
- If desired, brush the tops of the crescent roll ups with melted butter. This will help them achieve a golden brown color as they bake.
- Bake:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the chicken crescent roll ups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Swap Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, to customize the flavor profile of the roll ups.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick dipping sauce using ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard to complement the flavors of the roll ups.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken? A: While fresh cooked chicken will yield the best flavor and texture, canned chicken can be used as a convenient shortcut. Just be sure to drain it well before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I make these roll ups ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the roll ups ahead of time and refrigerate them, covered, until ready to bake. Simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftover roll ups? A: Yes, leftover chicken crescent roll ups can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake them from frozen in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make keto-friendly or low-carb versions of these roll ups? A: Yes, you can make keto-friendly or low-carb versions of these roll ups by using almond flour crescent roll dough or cloud bread as a substitute for the crescent roll dough. You can also use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese for the filling and omit the onions for a lower carb option.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Use almond flour crescent roll dough or cloud bread as a substitute for the crescent roll dough.
- Replace the onions with green onions or omit them altogether to reduce the carb count.
- Use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheese for the filling.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version instructions, adjusting the ingredients to fit your specific low-carb dietary needs.
- Serve the roll ups with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
In conclusion, Chicken Crescent Roll Ups are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. With their flaky exterior and creamy, savory filling, they offer a satisfying bite that will leave you coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation that’s truly out of this world!