1 can (8 oz / 225g) refrigerated crescent roll dough (do not use croissant dough)
For the Creamy Chicken Filling
2 cups (about 300g) cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or leftover)
1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
¼ cup (60g) cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra richness)
¼ cup (60ml) ranch dressing (or buffalo sauce for heat)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Finishing Touches
Extra shredded cheese, for topping
Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Hot sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping
✅ Pro Tip: For spicy kick, mix ranch + buffalo 50/50!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl:
Combine shredded chicken, cheese, cream cheese, ranch (or buffalo), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir until evenly blended and creamy.
✅ Use a fork or hands—just get everything well mixed.
3. Assemble the Roll-Ups
Unroll the crescent dough:
Separate into 8 triangles.
Spoon 1–2 tbsp filling onto the wide end of each triangle.
Roll up from wide end to point, enclosing the filling completely.
Place seam-side down on the baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
✅ Gently press the tip to seal if needed.
4. Bake Until Golden & Puffed
Bake 12–15 minutes, until:
Tops are deep golden brown
Dough is flaky and crisp
Filling is heated through
✅ Optional: Sprinkle with extra cheese during the last 2–3 minutes for a melty finish.
5. Serve Warm & Delicious
Let cool 2–3 minutes—they firm up quickly.
Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Serve warm with ranch, hot sauce, or blue cheese dressing on the side.
Enjoy as:
A standalone snack or light meal
With a side salad or roasted veggies
Cut into bite-sized pieces for party trays
✅ Leftovers? Reheat gently in the oven—the crust stays crisp!
You Must Know
Use real shredded cheese —pre-shredded doesn’t melt well.
Don’t overfill —too much filling can cause leaks.
Rotisserie chicken = time-saver —just shred and go.
Tastes better the next day! Reheats beautifully in oven or air fryer.
Freezer-friendly —cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.
Storage Tips
Store cooled roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes (best texture). Microwave works but may soften edges.
Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw and reheat before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ranch dressing
Caesar, blue cheese, or Alfredo sauce
Flavor variation
Buffalo sauce
Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
Heat alternatives
Chicken
Turkey, tuna, or chickpeas
For variation
Crescent dough
Gluten-free biscuits or homemade dough
Dietary needs
Cream cheese
Mascarpone or dairy-free alternative
Slight flavor change
Serving Suggestions
Serve family-style on a rustic board with dipping sauces.
Great for potlucks—bring the whole tray!
Double the batch and freeze half for future joy.
Package in lunchboxes (reheat safely).
Cultural Context
Rooted in American convenience cooking and game-day traditions, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients—canned dough, chicken, cheese—can become something deeply satisfying. Found at football parties, creative kitchens, and weeknight tables alike, it honors the joy of sharing food that feels both familiar and special.
Pro Tips
Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use two pans.
Want more crunch? Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds before baking.
Make ahead: Assemble unbaked roll-ups and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use crescent rings instead of sheets?
A: Yes—but unroll and press them into layers for best results.
Q: Why did my roll-ups burst open?
A: Likely overfilled or rolled too tightly. Use less filling and roll gently.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF crescent dough or substitute crust.
Q: Can I make muffins instead?
A: Absolutely! Press dough into greased tins, fill, and bake 12–15 mins.
Q: Can I air fry them?
A: Yes! Air fry at 370°F for 8–10 mins, watching closely.
Allergy Information
Contains: dairy (cheese, cream cheese), eggs (in dough), wheat (in dough).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF dough.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on processed doughs, dressings, and cheeses.
Nutrition Facts (Per Roll-Up – Approximate)
Based on 8 servings
Calories: 180
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 380mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.
These roll-ups don’t shout. They emerge golden from the oven, fragrant and inviting, saying everything a great treat should: “Grab me. Share me… maybe.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with chicken, care, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”