Savory Chicken Pastry Swirls

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with these incredibly easy and satisfying Chicken Crescent Rolls. Featuring tender chicken, creamy cream cheese, and savory mushrooms, all wrapped and baked inside golden crescent dough, this dish is destined to become a cherished family favorite.

There’s something uniquely comforting and convenient about using store-bought crescent dough as a foundation for a quick and delicious meal. I’ve often leveraged this versatile shortcut for dishes like a hearty Ham and Cheese Crescent Bake or a vibrant Zesty Italian Crescent Casserole. But among all these culinary adventures, the Chicken Crescent Rolls hold a special place in my heart, consistently delivering a meal that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly flavorful.

A Timeless Family Favorite: The Story Behind These Chicken Crescent Rolls

These Chicken Crescent Rolls have been a staple in my kitchen for many, many years. The recipe originally came from my sister, and while its exact lineage beyond her is a mystery, its impact on my cooking journey is undeniable. From the very first bite, I knew I had found a keeper.

This dish was one of my few culinary companions during my college years. Its appeal was clear: it was effortless to make, surprisingly inexpensive for a student budget, and perhaps best of all, it yielded fantastic leftovers that kept me fed for days. It was the perfect solution for busy study nights and meager budgets.

Fast forward to today, and these rolls have gracefully transitioned from a college convenience to a beloved family go-to. They’re the kind of recipe I turn to when the weeknight hustle demands something quick, satisfying, and universally loved. Whether you’re feeding a hungry household or looking for a comforting meal after a long day, these chicken crescent rolls are an absolute lifesaver.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Chicken Crescent Rolls

If you’re searching for a meal that ticks all the boxes – easy, delicious, and family-approved – look no further. Here’s why these Chicken Crescent Rolls deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection:

• Effortless Preparation: Utilizing pre-made crescent dough simplifies the process immensely, making this a perfect recipe for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Customizable Flavor: The filling is incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the herbs, add different vegetables, or swap out the chicken for another protein to suit your family’s tastes.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: Who can resist a warm, flaky roll? The mild, creamy chicken filling is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring a clean plate every time.
• Great for Leftovers: These rolls reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day. They stay delicious and retain their comforting texture.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
• Comfort Food at its Best: There’s an undeniable comfort in each bite of these golden-brown rolls, making them perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little culinary hug.

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Chicken Crescent Rolls

Crafting these delectable Chicken Crescent Rolls begins with a handful of accessible ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich, savory profile:

• Butter: This recipe calls for butter in three stages: a portion for sautéing the mushrooms, a softened amount for the creamy filling, and a final melted drizzle for brushing over the tops of the rolls before baking. Ensure 4 tablespoons are at room temperature for easy blending with the cream cheese.
• Mushrooms: While I’ve evolved to prefer fresh, sliced mushrooms sautéed to perfection, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. If you’re short on time or prefer a simpler approach, canned mushrooms (drained well) work perfectly fine and maintain the dish’s ease.
• Cream Cheese: The backbone of our creamy filling! Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This is key for achieving a smooth, lump-free mixture that will effortlessly blend with the other ingredients.
• Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize pre-cooked chicken. Whether you have leftover shredded chicken from a previous meal, diced chicken from a store-bought rotisserie bird, or freshly cooked and cubed chicken, any pre-cooked option will save you valuable time.
• Stuffing Mix: I know, it might seem like an unconventional ingredient for crescent rolls, but trust me, it’s a brilliant addition! Seasoned bread stuffing mix acts as a wonderful binder, absorbing moisture and adding a depth of savory flavor that truly elevates the filling. If you have leftover holiday stuffing, absolutely use it. Otherwise, a quickly prepared boxed stuffing mix (like Stove Top) works perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always adjust to your personal preference. I find this recipe often benefits from a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper, and just a touch of salt depending on the seasoning in your chicken and stuffing.
• Crescent Dough: The ultimate shortcut! You’ll need two cans of refrigerated crescent dough. These flaky, buttery triangles are the perfect vessel for our rich filling, baking up golden and tender.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional but highly recommended for a golden, cheesy crust. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan mixed with melted butter brushed over the rolls before baking adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish. If you’re out or prefer to skip it, the rolls will still be delicious.

Crafting Your Delicious Chicken Crescent Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these delightful chicken crescent rolls is a straightforward process, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Follow these easy steps to bring this family favorite to your table:

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms (or onions, if using) and cook, stirring frequently, until they have softened and released their moisture, becoming slightly golden. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Create the Creamy Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons of softened butter with the room-temperature cream cheese. Using a hand mixer (or a sturdy spatula and some elbow grease), beat the mixture until it’s perfectly smooth and well combined. This creamy base is crucial for a luscious filling.
4. Combine Filling Ingredients: To the cream cheese mixture, add the cooked chicken, prepared stuffing mix, and the sautéed mushrooms. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. Now is the time to taste and season! Add salt and a generous amount of black pepper to your preference.
5. Prepare the Crescent Dough: Carefully unroll both cans of crescent dough. Separate the dough into individual triangles along the perforations. Working with one triangle at a time, gently stretch the dough slightly to make it a bit larger, creating more surface area for your filling.
6. Fill and Roll the Crescents: Place a spoonful (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on dough size) of the chicken filling onto the wider end of each crescent dough triangle. Begin rolling the dough from the wide end towards the pointed tip, encasing the filling. As you roll, tuck in the sides of the dough and gently pinch them together to seal the filling securely inside. This prevents any delicious escape during baking.
7. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the filled crescent rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheets, ensuring a little space between each roll for even baking.
8. Apply the Golden Finish: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the melted butter over the top of each roll. Then, generously sprinkle them with the grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds a beautiful golden color and a savory, cheesy crunch.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the baking sheets to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed up, beautifully golden brown, and cooked through.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve your Chicken Crescent Rolls warm. They are absolutely delightful on their own or alongside a light salad.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Crescent Rolls

To ensure your Chicken Crescent Rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Chicken Preparation Made Easy: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken on hand, a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred or cube the meat. Alternatively, you can boil or bake chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred or dice them before mixing into the filling.
• Keep the Dough Cold: Crescent dough is much easier to work with when it’s cold. Keep the cans refrigerated until you are ready to unroll and fill them. Cold dough is less sticky and holds its shape better, making stretching and rolling a smoother process.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on the delicious filling, resist the urge to overfill each crescent. Too much filling can make the rolls difficult to seal, leading to leaks during baking. A spoonful or two is usually just right.
• Ensure a Tight Seal: After placing the filling, make sure to firmly pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the rolls. This prevents the filling from oozing out and helps the rolls maintain their beautiful shape.
• Leftovers Are a Treat: These chicken crescent rolls make fantastic leftovers! Store any uneaten rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating Options: For best results, reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer at 300-350°F (150-175°C) until warmed through and crispy. This will help restore their flaky texture. A microwave can also be used for quick reheating, though the dough might be a little softer.

Creative Variations: Make These Chicken Crescent Rolls Your Own

While the classic Chicken Crescent Rolls are a masterpiece on their own, this recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to get creative with your fillings and flavors. Think of it as a delicious canvas for your culinary imagination:

• Switch the Protein: Have leftover turkey from a holiday feast? It’s a fantastic substitute for chicken, offering a slightly richer flavor profile. Cooked ham or even shredded pork would also be delicious alternatives.
• Add More Veggies: Don’t limit yourself to mushrooms! Sautéed bell peppers (any color), finely chopped onions, spinach (squeezed dry), corn, or even finely diced carrots can add extra nutrients, texture, and flavor. Just be sure to cook them down to remove excess moisture before adding to the filling.
• Amp Up the Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, fold in about a cup of your favorite shredded cheese directly into the filling. Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend would all be excellent choices.
• Stuffing Alternatives: If stuffing isn’t your preference or you’re out, you can replace it with about half a cup of plain breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Cooked rice or quinoa could also be interesting additions for a different texture.
• Herb and Spice It Up: Elevate the flavor profile with your favorite herbs and spices. Dried thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of paprika can add wonderful aromatic notes to the chicken mixture. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick.
• Consider a Sauce: While delicious plain, these rolls are also fantastic with a dipping sauce. A simple gravy, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce could complement the savory filling beautifully.
• Add a Nutty Crunch: I used to add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to my filling for extra crunch and flavor. If your family enjoys nuts, this is a wonderful addition!

Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Crescent Rolls

These Chicken Crescent Rolls are hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a complete and balanced dinner. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, lightly steamed and seasoned, make for a healthy and vibrant side.
• Soup: For a comforting meal, serve them alongside a bowl of your favorite creamy soup, like tomato bisque or a classic chicken noodle.
• Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: If you’re looking for something more substantial, roasted potatoes or sweet potato wedges are a great addition.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can add a touch of sweetness and lightness to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Crescent Rolls

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making these delicious rolls:

Can I make Chicken Crescent Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the chicken filling a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill and roll the crescent dough, then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can assemble the rolls entirely and refrigerate them, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Just be aware that the dough might not puff up as much if it sits too long.

Can I freeze Chicken Crescent Rolls?

Yes, both baked and unbaked rolls can be frozen.

• To freeze unbaked rolls: Assemble the rolls, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place frozen rolls on a baking sheet and bake at the same temperature, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• To freeze baked rolls: Allow the baked rolls to cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.

What if I don’t like mushrooms?

No problem at all! You can easily omit the mushrooms from the recipe. If you’d like to replace them with another vegetable, consider sautéed finely diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and texture.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Absolutely. While shredded chicken is ideal for its texture, finely diced cooked chicken breast or thigh meat will work just as well. The key is to ensure the chicken is pre-cooked and in small, manageable pieces for the filling.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls are ready when they are beautifully golden brown on top and the dough is puffed and cooked through. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking cycle.

More Family Friendly Chicken Dinners to Explore

If you love easy and delicious chicken dinners, you’ll want to add these to your rotation:

BBQ Chicken Wraps
Poppy Seed Chicken
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Chicken and Biscuits
Coconut Curry Chicken

Chicken Crescent Rolls

Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Print
Pin

Chicken, cream cheese, and mushrooms are rolled and baked inside crescent rolls for these easy, family favorite Chicken Crescent Rolls.

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons butter divided (4 tablespoons softened)
• 8 oz mushrooms sliced
• 8 oz cream cheese at room temperature
• 2 cups cooked chopped or shredded chicken
• 2/3 cup prepared seasoned bread stuffing*
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent dough
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a skillet. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms have softened, about 5-10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons of softened butter with the cream cheese and beat with a hand mixer until smooth and combined. Add in the chicken, stuffing, and cooked mushrooms. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Open the crescent rolls and divide the rolls into triangles. Spread the dough slightly larger and add some of the chicken mixture to the wide end of each roll. Roll up the crescent roll, keeping the chicken mixture inside and pinching the edges closed.
5. Place the filled rolls on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Brush the butter over the top of the rolls and sprinkle with the grated cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls are golden brown, about 25 minutes.
8. Serve warm.

Recipe Notes:

*This is a great use for leftover holiday stuffing, but if I don’t have any on hand, I just use boxed stuffing mix, prepared.

I used to always add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, as well, but my family doesn’t love nuts so I have been leaving them out. It’s a great filler, and great for a bit of crunch, as well.

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 2 rolls,
Calories: 479kcal (24%),
Carbohydrates: 31g (10%),
Protein: 19g (38%),
Fat: 31g (48%),
Saturated Fat: 16g (100%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 90mg (30%),
Sodium: 704mg (31%),
Fiber: 1g (4%),
Sugar: 7g (8%)

Keywords: chicken crescent rolls, easy dinner, family meal