
Chicken-Stuffed Crescent Rolls are the kind of cozy recipe I rely on for hectic nights or when I need a quick plate of appetizers that everyone will love. With buttery dough and creamy filling, they always disappear fast at my table.
The first time I brought these out for a family movie night, not a single roll remained by the end—now they’re a permanent part of our snack rotation and even requested for game day gatherings.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Gives you that flaky pastry texture with no hassles Look for dough without tears for easy rolling
- Cooked chicken shredded: A great use for leftovers or grab a rotisserie chicken for speed Aim for juicy and flavorful chicken
- Cream cheese softened: Binds the filling together and delivers creaminess Choose a block variety for best texture
- Shredded cheddar cheese or any cheese: Melts into the mixture to boost flavor and gooeyness Mild cheddar or a blend works well
- Green onions chopped optional: A pop of fresh taste and color Select bright crisp stalks
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle kick Fresh garlic can be minced for a deeper flavor
- Onion powder: Boosts the savory notes and complements the garlic Use fresh if you like a bit of texture
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing flavors Use flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper if on hand
- Egg for egg wash optional: Creates a glossy golden brown finish on top
- Herbs and spices like paprika or Italian seasoning optional: Lends extra depth and color smoked paprika gives a nice touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking for even color and puff
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl stir together the shredded chicken cream cheese cheddar cheese green onions garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper Mix until the filling is creamy and combined well with no big clumps of cheese or chicken
- Roll Out the Crescent Dough:
- Open the can of crescent dough and gently unroll it on a clean surface Separate the dough into triangles along the perforations being careful not to tear the dough
- Fill the Crescent Rolls:
- Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle Make sure you do not overfill or the rolls will be hard to close Roll the triangle up starting at the wide side and going toward the point Tuck in the sides as you go so the filling is enclosed Pinch any openings closed
- Prepare for Baking:
- Arrange the stuffed rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet leaving space to puff up If you like a shiny crust whisk the egg and brush it lightly over each roll for color and sheen
- Bake:
- Slide the tray into the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes The rolls are done when golden brown on top and the filling is hot If baking several batches rotate the pan halfway for even browning
- Serve:
- Let the rolls cool just a minute or two so the filling sets slightly Serve them warm for the best experience

Cheddar cheese is truly my favorite part of these rolls When it melts and mixes with the cream cheese it creates that irresistible stretch that my family loves so much We once made these for a birthday picnic and everyone ended up eating them with their hands as soon as they were cool enough to grab
Storage Tips
Leftover rolls will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat pop them in the oven at three hundred and fifty degrees for five minutes to crisp up the pastry again Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter option or try mozzarella for a different cheese pull Shredded turkey works just like chicken and chopped spinach or mushrooms can be added for more veggie bulk

Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of salad or vegetable soup for a simple meal These also make great finger foods for parties Just slice into smaller bites and serve with toothpicks A little ranch or spicy dipping sauce goes over well too
Cultural Context
Crescent roll dough is a familiar shortcut in American home cooking It became a staple for busy cooks in the mid twentieth century and lends itself to countless creative fillings like chicken bacon or ham and cheese These rolls remind me of classic potluck dishes that bring everyone together
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover chicken in the filling?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly for the filling, saving prep time.
- → What cheese substitutes work well?
You can swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese. Use what's on hand or mix for extra flavor.
- → How do I keep the rolls from leaking?
Seal the edges firmly and avoid overfilling. Pinching edges helps keep the creamy chicken mixture inside while baking.
- → Can these be prepared ahead?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to a day before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → Are these good served cold?
They're best enjoyed warm, but leftovers are tasty cold or reheated. Try them alongside salads or as lunchbox treats.