These golden, buttery crescent rolls are filled with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings. They make a delicious family dinner, party appetizer, or easy lunch.
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
15–20 minutes
Servings
8 rolls
Ingredients
For the chicken filling
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the crescent rolls
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 pieces)
- 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for the butter topping (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and evenly combined.
2. Prepare the dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Separate the crescent dough into 8 triangles.
3. Fill and roll
Place approximately 2–3 tablespoons of chicken filling on the wide end of each triangle. Roll toward the narrow tip, gently tucking in the sides to keep the filling inside.
4. Apply egg wash
Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
5. Bake until golden
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the filling is piping hot. If using the garlic butter topping, brush it over the rolls after baking.
Nutrition information
Estimated per roll, assuming 8 rolls and standard refrigerated crescent dough. Actual values depend on the brands and amounts used.
| Nutrient | Per roll |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260–320 |
| Protein | 13–17 g |
| Total carbohydrates | 15–20 g |
| Fat | 16–21 g |
| Saturated fat | 6–9 g |
| Fiber | 0–1 g |
| Sugar | 2–4 g |
| Sodium | 400–600 mg |
Nut information and allergen guide
Are these crescent rolls nut-free?
The recipe contains no nuts as listed, but the ingredients and packaged dough must be checked for allergen warnings and possible cross-contact.
| Allergen or dietary concern | Information |
|---|---|
| Peanuts | Not included in the recipe |
| Tree nuts | Not included in the recipe |
| Milk | Contains cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan |
| Wheat/gluten | Usually present in crescent dough |
| Eggs | Present in the egg wash |
| Soy | May be present in packaged dough or mayonnaise |
| Sesame | Check package labels for possible presence |
For a nut allergy, verify every product label and any facility cross-contact warnings. For a dairy-free version, use suitable dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Helpful tips for the best results
- Use cold dough: Keep the crescent dough refrigerated until you’re ready to fill it.
- Avoid overfilling: Too much filling can leak during baking.
- Use softened cream cheese: This makes the filling easier to mix.
- Try different cheeses: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mozzarella-cheddar blend works well.
- Make ahead: Prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the rolls shortly before baking.
- Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate within 2 hours in an airtight container and use within 3–4 days. Reheat until steaming hot.
Questions and answers (Q&A)
Q1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice. Remove the skin and shred the meat before mixing it with the filling ingredients.
Q2. Can I make these without cream cheese?
Yes. Substitute thick sour cream or softened ricotta, although the filling may be less rich and creamy.
Q3. Can I freeze chicken crescent rolls?
Yes. For best texture, freeze them after baking and cooling. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot throughout.
Q4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Avoid overfilling, tuck the sides inward, and place each roll seam-side down. Leave enough space between rolls for the dough to expand.
Q5. Can I make them in an air fryer?
Yes. Arrange them in a single layer and cook at approximately 320–350°F (160–175°C) for 8–12 minutes, checking early because air fryers vary. Ensure the dough is fully cooked and the filling reaches a safe temperature.
Q6. What can I serve with these rolls?
Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, tomato soup, steamed broccoli, or a light cucumber salad.
Q7. Can I make this recipe higher in protein?
Yes. Increase the shredded chicken slightly, use reduced-fat cream cheese, and choose a higher-protein cheese. Be careful not to add so much filling that the rolls become difficult to seal.
Q8. Are these suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Bake a batch, refrigerate the cooled rolls, and reheat individual portions in an oven or air fryer to help restore their crisp texture.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken crescent rolls! 🥐🍗
