Picture this: buttery crescent rolls stuffed with tender, flavorful chicken, oozing with melted cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell like a warm hug and has everyone at the table reaching for seconds. These Cheesy Chicken Crescents are a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Chicken Crescents
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making these for a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or simply treating yourself, these crescents fit the bill perfectly. Here’s why they’re a favorite:
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or appetizer. These crescents can adapt to any occasion.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in a snap with minimal effort and cleanup.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or swap out the cheese for a twist.
- Kid-Approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love these cheesy, flaky pockets of joy.
Ingredients in Cheesy Chicken Crescents
Here’s the magic of these crescents: they’re made with just a handful of ingredients, but the result is out-of-this-world. Let’s break it down:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, it’s the hearty base of this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works like a charm here.
Crescent Roll Dough: The flaky, buttery wrap that holds everything together.
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess and a hint of tang.
Shredded Cheese: Pick your favorite—cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend. More cheese equals more joy!
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to elevate the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create these irresistibly cheesy crescents:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crescents bake evenly and achieve that golden, flaky perfection.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and seasonings. Stir until everything is well blended and irresistibly creamy.
Prepare Your Dough: Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface. Separate it into individual triangles as outlined.
Assemble the Crescents: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle. Roll them up, starting from the wide end and tucking the filling inside as you go.
Bake to Perfection: Place the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the crescents cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate cheesy, savory experience.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 8 crescents
- Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Crescents
These crescents pair beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad balances the rich, cheesy flavors.
- Soups: Serve alongside a bowl of creamy tomato or chicken noodle soup for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Veggie Sides: Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or a medley of colorful vegetables make excellent pairings.
- As a Standalone: These crescents are hearty enough to enjoy on their own. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by mixing the filling the night before and storing it in the fridge.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free crescent dough if needed.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crisp.
- Double the Batch: These crescents freeze beautifully. Make a double batch, freeze the extras, and reheat as needed for a quick meal or snack.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, canned chicken works well as a quick substitute. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A2: Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach make great additions.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q4: Can I freeze uncooked crescents?
A4: Yes! Assemble the crescents, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q5: Can I use a different type of dough?
A5: Puff pastry or biscuit dough can be used, though the texture will differ.
Q6: What’s the best way to reheat these?
A6: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Q7: Can I make these ahead of time?
A7: Yes, assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Q8: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A8: Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack work beautifully.
Q9: Are these crescents good for meal prep?
A9: Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep. Freeze them and reheat as needed for quick snacks or lunches.
Q10: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A10: Sure! Substitute the chicken with a vegetarian alternative like cooked lentils or seasoned tofu.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Crescents are the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or indulging in a cozy meal at home, these little pockets of cheesy goodness are sure to become a family favorite. Go ahead, give them a try, and let the cheesy magic unfold!
PrintCheesy Chicken Crescents
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 crescents 1x
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baking / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Description
These flaky, cheesy crescents filled with flavorful spiced chicken and a tangy sauce are the ultimate comfort food. The buttery dough and the savory chicken mixture make a perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 8g salt (1 1/3 teaspoon)
- 10g instant yeast
- 75g yogurt
- 15g honey
- 35ml sunflower oil
- 225ml lukewarm water
Filling
- 40g unsalted butter
- 50g grated cheese
Topping
- 1 medium egg (beaten)
Chicken Mixture
- 25ml olive oil
- 700g chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 5g salt (5/6 teaspoon)
- 3g cayenne powder (1 teaspoon)
- 2g coriander powder (2/3 teaspoon)
- 3g garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- 3g onion powder (1 teaspoon)
- 3g red bell pepper powder (1 teaspoon)
- 2g cumin powder (2/3 teaspoon)
Sauce
- 100g Algerienne sauce
- 20g sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, yeast, yogurt, honey, sunflower oil, and lukewarm water. Mix well and knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Deflate the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 32 cm diameter circle.
- Add the filling: Brush one circle with butter and sprinkle grated cheese over it. Place the second dough circle on top and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Cut and shape the crescents: Cut the dough into 12 equal triangles. Take each triangle, stretch it slightly, and roll it from the wide base to the tip to form a croissant shape.
- Bake the crescents: Place the croissants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush with the beaten egg and let them rise for 30 minutes until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and the spices (salt, cayenne powder, coriander powder, garlic powder, onion powder, red bell pepper powder, and cumin powder). Cook for 6-7 minutes until done and golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, mix the Algerienne sauce and sweet soy sauce. Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce until coated.
- Assemble the croissants: Slice the cooled croissants open and fill with the chicken mixture. Add extra cheese sauce and fresh vegetables if desired.
Notes
- You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Customize the filling with additional vegetables or a different cheese if preferred.
- For an extra crispy crust, bake the croissants for a few extra minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crescent
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg