Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls Recipe

Okay, buckle up, because we’re about to dive headfirst into a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen – Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. Honestly, these little pockets of deliciousness are a weeknight dinner savior and a potluck party superstar all rolled into one flaky, golden package. My family? They practically cheer when they see these on the table. The perfect blend of creamy, savory chicken filling nestled in a buttery crescent roll is just irresistible. They disappear in minutes, and I’m not exaggerating! Even my pickiest eater, who usually eyes anything remotely “mixed” with suspicion, devours these without a second thought. They’re that good. And the best part? They are incredibly easy to make. Seriously, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and requires minimal effort, you’ve just struck gold. Get ready to experience the magic of Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

Ingredients

To whip up these delectable Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls, you’ll need a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforwardness, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve culinary success. Let’s break down each ingredient and discuss why it plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star of the show! Cooked chicken forms the hearty base of our filling. You have fantastic flexibility here. Leftover rotisserie chicken is an absolute time-saver and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Poached chicken breast, shredded after cooling, is another excellent option, offering a leaner profile. You could even use canned chicken in a pinch, just ensure it’s well-drained and flaked thoroughly. The key is to have it cooked and shredded for easy mixing and even distribution within the crescent rolls. Two cups provide a generous amount of filling for each roll, making them satisfying and substantial. Consider using a mix of dark and white meat chicken for a richer flavor profile. If you are cooking chicken specifically for this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are your best bet. Simply boil or bake them until cooked through, then shred with two forks. Remember to let the chicken cool slightly before shredding to avoid burning your fingers! For an extra layer of flavor, you could even lightly season the chicken with a touch of salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking it. This pre-seasoning step will elevate the overall taste of the filling.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese is the magic binder that brings our filling together and adds that signature creamy texture. It’s crucial that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will make it incredibly easy to mix with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth and homogenous filling. Cold cream cheese will be lumpy and difficult to incorporate, resulting in an uneven texture. You can speed up the softening process by unwrapping the cream cheese and cutting it into smaller cubes, then letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short 10-15 second bursts, being careful not to melt it completely. Full-fat cream cheese will provide the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but you can also use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer a lighter option. Just be aware that reduced-fat versions might not be quite as creamy. The subtle tanginess of cream cheese also perfectly complements the savory chicken and cheddar, creating a balanced and delicious flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, savory counterpoint to the creaminess of the cream cheese and adds a lovely cheesy flavor that everyone loves. Shredded cheddar is ideal as it melts evenly and incorporates beautifully into the filling. You can use pre-shredded cheddar for convenience, or shred your own from a block for potentially better flavor and melt. Sharp cheddar will give a more pronounced cheesy tang, while mild cheddar will be more subtle. For a fun twist, you could experiment with different types of cheddar, such as white cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier cheese pull. Consider using a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. The cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the overall texture of the filling, creating that gooey, cheesy goodness that everyone craves.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Green onions (also known as scallions) bring a fresh, mild onion flavor and a vibrant pop of color to our filling. They add a subtle sharpness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream cheese, preventing the filling from being overly heavy. Make sure to chop the green onions finely so they distribute evenly throughout the mixture. Use both the white and green parts of the green onions for a more complex flavor. If you don’t have green onions on hand, you could substitute with a tablespoon of finely minced chives or a very small amount of finely diced white or yellow onion, though these will have a stronger flavor, so use sparingly. Freshness is key with green onions; they should be firm and bright green. Avoid using wilted or slimy green onions. A quarter of a cup provides just the right amount of freshness without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder delivers a convenient and consistent garlic flavor to our filling. Garlic is a foundational savory flavor that complements chicken and cheese beautifully. Garlic powder is a great pantry staple and ensures even distribution of garlic flavor throughout the mixture. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the amount slightly, but start with half a teaspoon and taste as you go. Alternatively, you could use fresh garlic. If using fresh garlic, mince about 1-2 cloves very finely and sauté them briefly in a little butter or olive oil until fragrant before adding them to the filling mixture. This will mellow the raw garlic flavor and enhance its sweetness. However, for ease and speed, garlic powder works perfectly in this recipe.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder adds another layer of savory depth and complexity to the filling, complementing the garlic powder and enhancing the overall umami flavor. Like garlic powder, onion powder is a convenient way to add onion flavor evenly. If you don’t have onion powder, you could consider using a very small amount of finely minced white or yellow onion, sautéed until softened, similar to the fresh garlic option. However, onion powder provides a milder, sweeter onion flavor that works perfectly in this recipe. Again, start with half a teaspoon and adjust to your taste preference.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Salt and pepper are essential seasoning agents that enhance all the other flavors in the filling. They bring balance and depth, preventing the dish from tasting bland. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, then taste the filling mixture and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember that cheese and crescent rolls can also contain salt, so season cautiously and taste frequently. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter flavor. Consider using sea salt or kosher salt for a cleaner, less metallic taste. Proper seasoning is crucial for bringing all the elements of the filling together and making it truly delicious. Don’t be afraid to be generous with your seasoning, but always taste and adjust as you go!
• 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls: Crescent rolls form the flaky, buttery, and perfectly portioned vessels for our savory chicken filling. Refrigerated crescent rolls are incredibly convenient and readily available in most grocery stores. The pre-made dough makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy to assemble. Look for the standard size crescent rolls, not the “grands” or jumbo versions, as these are the perfect size for individual servings. Make sure the crescent rolls are refrigerated until you are ready to use them. Working with cold dough is easier and prevents them from becoming sticky. You can use any brand of refrigerated crescent rolls that you prefer. The buttery flavor and flaky texture of crescent rolls are the perfect complement to the creamy, savory chicken filling, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a batch of irresistible Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls that will be a hit with everyone!

Instructions

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the simple steps to create these mouthwatering Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious dish in a hurry.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet. Preheating your oven is the first crucial step. Ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature before you put the crescent rolls in will guarantee even baking and prevent them from being undercooked or overcooked. 375°F (190°C) is the ideal temperature for achieving golden brown, perfectly cooked crescent rolls. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking sheet. Lightly greasing the baking sheet is important to prevent the crescent rolls from sticking and ensures they release easily after baking. You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease the baking sheet. Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper is another excellent option, as it also prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Parchment paper can also help to promote even browning on the bottom of the crescent rolls.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This is where the magic happens – we create our delicious filling! Choose a medium-sized bowl that gives you enough room to comfortably mix all the ingredients without making a mess. Start by adding the softened cream cheese to the bowl. Using a spoon or spatula, break it down a bit to make it easier to mix. Then, add the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined. You want to ensure that the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture and that all the ingredients are well incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the filling tough. The goal is to create a homogenous, creamy, and flavorful filling. Taste the filling at this stage and adjust the seasoning (salt and pepper) as needed. This is your chance to personalize the flavor to your liking. If you want a bit more garlic flavor, add a pinch more garlic powder. If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, you could add a little more cheddar or even a touch of Parmesan cheese.
3. Open the cans of crescent rolls and separate the dough into triangles. Now it’s time to prepare the crescent roll dough. Carefully open the cans of refrigerated crescent rolls according to the package directions. Usually, this involves peeling back the label and pressing along the seam to open the can. Once opened, gently unroll the dough and separate it into individual triangles along the pre-cut lines. You should have approximately 8 triangles per can, so 16 triangles in total from two cans. Lay the crescent roll triangles out on a clean surface, such as a cutting board or your lightly floured countertop. Keep them separated so they don’t stick together. Work relatively quickly once you open the cans, as the dough will start to warm up at room temperature and become a bit stickier.
4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Now for the fun part – stuffing the crescent rolls! Take a heaping tablespoon of the chicken filling mixture and place it onto the wide end of one of the crescent roll triangles. Be generous with the filling, but avoid overfilling, as this can make it difficult to seal the crescent rolls properly and the filling might leak out during baking. A heaping tablespoon should be just the right amount to create a satisfyingly stuffed crescent roll without being overly messy. Repeat this step for all the crescent roll triangles, placing a heaping tablespoon of filling on the wide end of each one. Try to distribute the filling evenly among all the triangles so you have enough for each roll.
5. Roll up each triangle, starting from the wide end, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. This is how we create the iconic crescent shape and seal in the delicious filling. Starting at the wide end of a crescent triangle (where you placed the filling), gently roll the dough towards the pointed end. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep the filling enclosed and create a neat crescent shape. Pinch the pointed end to seal the roll and prevent it from unrolling during baking. Place the rolled crescent roll onto the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Arrange the crescent rolls on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even baking and air circulation. They will puff up slightly as they bake. Repeat this rolling and placing process for all the filled crescent triangles until you have arranged all of them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown. Time to bake our stuffed crescent rolls to golden perfection! Place the baking sheet with the assembled crescent rolls in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The crescent rolls are done when they are puffed up, golden brown on top, and the dough is cooked through (not doughy in the center). The filling will be heated through and melty. If you are unsure if they are cooked through, you can gently pull one crescent roll apart in the center to check if the dough is fully cooked. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the crescent rolls dry. The goal is to achieve a perfect balance of golden brown color, flaky texture, and cooked-through dough.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Once the crescent rolls are beautifully golden brown, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use oven mitts or pot holders to protect your hands, as the baking sheet and crescent rolls will be very hot. Let the Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth on piping hot filling. It also makes them easier to handle. The aroma at this stage will be absolutely irresistible! After a few minutes of cooling, the Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are ready to be served and enjoyed. They are best served warm, when the crescent rolls are still flaky and the filling is warm and gooey.

Following these simple instructions will guide you to create perfect Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate estimations, values can vary based on specific ingredients used)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Please Note: These nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. Factors such as the fat content of the cream cheese and cheddar cheese, the type of chicken used (white meat vs. dark meat), and the size of the crescent rolls can all impact the final nutritional values. For more precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

This recipe provides a satisfying and flavorful meal that is moderate in calories for a comfort food dish. It offers a good balance of carbohydrates from the crescent rolls, protein from the chicken, and fats from the cheese and cream cheese. However, it’s important to consider portion sizes and enjoy these delicious treats as part of a balanced diet. You can also make adjustments to the recipe to reduce calories and fat if desired, such as using reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese, or increasing the proportion of chicken to cheese in the filling.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 32-35 minutes

This recipe is a true weeknight wonder! With a quick 20 minutes of prep time to mix the filling and assemble the crescent rolls, and just 12-15 minutes of baking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under 35 minutes. The majority of the prep time is spent mixing the filling, which is a very straightforward process. Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, significantly reduces the overall preparation time. The short baking time ensures that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create a flavorful and crowd-pleasing dish. This speedy preparation makes Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting and easy-to-make meal.

How to Serve

Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for different occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• As a Quick and Easy Dinner:
  • Serve them warm straight from the oven as a satisfying main course.
  • Pair them with a simple side salad for a balanced and light meal. A green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a Caesar salad would complement the richness of the crescent rolls perfectly.
  • Add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus to increase the nutritional value and add some freshness.
  • For a heartier meal, serve them with a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or a chicken noodle soup.
• As an Appetizer or Party Snack:
  • Cut the baked crescent rolls in half or thirds to create bite-sized appetizers.
  • Arrange them attractively on a platter and serve with dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a creamy cheese dip are all excellent choices.
  • These are perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, holiday parties, or any casual get-together.
  • They can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving, making them ideal for party planning.
• For Lunchboxes or On-the-Go Meals:
  • Once cooled, these crescent rolls are portable and make a great addition to lunchboxes for kids or adults.
  • They are also perfect for picnics or road trips as a convenient and tasty handheld meal.
  • Pair them with some fruit, vegetables sticks, or yogurt for a complete and balanced lunch.
• With Dipping Sauces:
  • Ranch Dressing: A classic and crowd-pleasing choice that complements the savory filling perfectly.
  • Honey Mustard: Adds a sweet and tangy element that balances the richness of the cheese and cream cheese.
  • BBQ Sauce: Provides a smoky and savory flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
  • Creamy Cheese Dip: Enhances the cheesy flavor and adds extra creaminess.
  • Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, a mild or medium hot sauce can add a spicy kick.
  • Marinara Sauce: Offers a tangy and tomatoey dipping option, creating a pizza-like flavor profile.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their versatility and delicious flavor make them a welcome addition to any meal or occasion.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls

To ensure your Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overfill the Crescent Rolls: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can lead to several problems. The crescent rolls may be difficult to seal properly, causing the filling to leak out during baking. Overfilling can also make the crescent rolls soggy in the center and prevent them from cooking through evenly. Stick to a heaping tablespoon of filling per crescent triangle for the best results. If you have leftover filling, you can use it for sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
2. Seal the Crescent Rolls Tightly: Properly sealing the crescent rolls is crucial to prevent the filling from escaping and to maintain their shape during baking. After rolling up each crescent, make sure to pinch the pointed end firmly to seal it closed. You can also gently tuck in the sides as you roll to further secure the filling. Placing the crescent rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet will also help to keep them sealed during baking. A well-sealed crescent roll will bake up beautifully without any filling leakage.
3. Use Softened Cream Cheese: As mentioned earlier, softened cream cheese is essential for creating a smooth and creamy filling. Cold cream cheese will be lumpy and difficult to mix, resulting in an uneven texture and potentially clumps of cream cheese in the finished filling. Make sure to soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure that it blends seamlessly with the chicken and cheese, creating a perfectly homogenous and delicious filling.
4. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors in any dish, and these crescent rolls are no exception. Don’t be afraid to taste the filling mixture before stuffing the crescent rolls and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a saltier filling, add a pinch more salt. If you like a bit more pepper, add more black pepper. You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as paprika, Italian seasoning, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano, to customize the flavor profile. Taste and adjust until you are happy with the flavor before proceeding with stuffing and baking.
5. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry and tough crescent rolls. Keep a close eye on the crescent rolls while they are baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they are golden brown and cooked through. The baking time is typically 12-15 minutes, but oven temperatures can vary. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark. The crescent rolls should be puffed up, golden brown on top, and the dough should be cooked through (not doughy). If you are unsure, gently pull one apart to check the center. Removing them from the oven at the right time will ensure they remain flaky, tender, and perfectly cooked.

By following these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to consistently creating flawless and incredibly delicious Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls that everyone will rave about!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible, and you can easily customize the cheese to your liking. While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can substitute or combine it with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Colby Jack, pepper jack (for a spicy kick), or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Just ensure the cheeses you use are shredded and melt well for the best results in the filling.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls ahead of time in a couple of ways. You can assemble the filled crescent rolls and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours before baking. This is a great option if you want to get ahead on meal prep. Alternatively, you can bake the crescent rolls completely and then reheat them gently when you are ready to serve. To reheat, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating in the oven will help maintain their flaky texture. Microwaving is also an option for reheating, but they may become slightly softer.

Q3: Can I freeze Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls?

A: Yes, you can freeze Baked Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls for longer storage. Bake them completely, let them cool to room temperature, and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Freezing is a great way to have these delicious treats on hand for a quick meal or snack whenever you need them.

Q4: What can I do with leftover filling?

A: Leftover chicken filling is incredibly versatile! You can use it in a variety of creative ways. Try spreading it on crackers or toast for a quick snack or appetizer. You can also use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Mix it into a salad for added protein and flavor. Or, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes. You can even incorporate it into scrambled eggs or omelets for a savory breakfast. Don’t let that delicious filling go to waste – get creative and enjoy it in different ways!

Q5: Can I add vegetables to the filling?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables to the filling is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor and texture. Consider adding finely diced cooked vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or corn to the chicken mixture. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to the filling to soften them and enhance their flavor. Make sure to dice the vegetables finely so they incorporate well into the filling and don’t make the crescent rolls difficult to roll up. Adding vegetables is a great way to customize the recipe and make it even healthier and more flavorful.

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