If you’re looking for a comfort food classic that’s wildly easy yet always a crowd pleaser, you have to try this Chicken Roll Ups Recipe! Imagine tender shreds of chicken swirled together with creamy cheese, then hugged by soft, golden crescent roll dough and topped with a buttery Parmesan finish. It’s a warm, irresistible meal that’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but also impressive when shared with friends. Whether served as a lunch, appetizer, or family dinner, this is one cozy, cheesy, handheld dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be surprised how just a handful of kitchen staples come together to make these Chicken Roll Ups irresistibly tasty. Each ingredient is chosen for a purpose: creaminess, flavor, gooey-cheesy pull, and that beautiful golden finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Use leftover rotisserie or boil your own; this is the hearty, protein-packed base that keeps the filling tender and satisfying.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (1 can, 8 oz): This shortcut dough bakes up buttery and flaky, perfect for wrapping all that chicken-y goodness inside.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds tangy creaminess and helps bind the filling together with a rich texture.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Lightens up the filling and introduces a subtle tang, balancing all the flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Brings ooey-gooey melt and sharp, cheesy depth to every bite.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): A cozy undercurrent of flavor that really perks up the filling.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the savory notes, making the filling taste extra homemade.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t hold back—these seasonings are key for bringing out all the other flavors!
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on top, this gives the roll ups an unforgettable golden sheen and decadent flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Sprinkled for a cheesy crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds color and a pop of freshness to finish.
How to Make Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This makes clean-up a breeze and ensures your roll ups won’t stick—or miss out on any of that golden crispy bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
Grab a medium bowl and add your cooked, shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it becomes creamy, dreamy, and well-blended. This is what makes each bite saucy and satisfying!
Step 3: Roll Up the Goodness
Unroll your crescent roll dough onto a flat surface and separate it into triangles. At the wide end of each triangle, plop a generous spoonful of your chicken mixture. Gently roll each one from the wide end to the tip, encasing the filling inside that buttery dough.
Step 4: Brush and Sprinkle
Arrange the filled rolls on your prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the tops liberally with melted butter, then shower them with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra-special crust.
Step 5: Bake Until Beautiful
Pop your tray in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the roll ups are puffed, golden, and crisp around the edges. The scent wafting through your kitchen is unbeatable!
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and, if you like, scatter some fresh parsley over the top. Serve the Chicken Roll Ups Recipe warm and watch everyone reach for seconds.
How to Serve Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a classic, but you could also opt for snipped chives or a dusting of crushed red pepper for just the tiniest kick. Add a zest of lemon for brightness or a swirl of extra melted butter if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Roll Ups Recipe with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette, a cup of tomato soup, or some roasted vegetables. For heartier appetites, try a side of garlic smashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. These roll ups are flexible and play well with almost any side!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these in a basket lined with a napkin for a rustic party vibe, slice them in half for easy appetizers at your next gathering, or arrange them on a platter with toothpicks if you’re hosting game night. You can even make bite-sized mini roll ups using the same filling and smaller pieces of dough for snackable fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen—sometimes they taste even better the next day!
Freezing
These Chicken Roll Ups are surprisingly freezer-friendly! Just cool them completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the Chicken Roll Ups Recipe in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the crust has crisped up again—about 10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch but may make the dough softer and less crisp.
FAQs
Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The chicken and cheese filling can be mixed up to two days ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. This makes weeknight prep a snap—just assemble and bake when you’re ready.
What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?
If you can’t find crescent rolls, try pizza dough or puff pastry for a flakier finish. Just cut into triangles and proceed as normal, though you may need to adjust baking times slightly depending on the dough.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even finely diced bell peppers can be mixed right into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure any vegetables are cooked and not too watery.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the creamy filling and buttery crust. This Chicken Roll Ups Recipe is mild, fun to eat with your hands, and easy to customize with their favorite cheeses or add-ins.
What is the best way to transport these for potlucks?
Let the roll ups cool slightly, then stack them in a covered container lined with parchment paper. They travel well and taste delicious at room temperature, making them ideal for taking along to parties or gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a truly reliable, delicious treat, give this Chicken Roll Ups Recipe a whirl. With its easy prep, cozy flavors, and endless serving possibilities, it has everything you want in a comforting homemade meal. Gather your ingredients and roll into something wonderful tonight!
