Chicken Crescent Bake Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, comforting, and satisfying dinner option, look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Crescent Bake! This dish combines tender chicken, flaky crescent rolls, and creamy cheese to create a meal that the whole family will love. Whether you're short on time or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is easy to follow and will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this irresistible Chicken Crescent Bake!

this Recipe

---

What Is a “Chicken Crescent Bake”?

A Chicken Crescent Bake is a savory dish where cooked chicken is wrapped in buttery crescent rolls, baked until golden brown, and typically served with a creamy sauce. This comforting meal can be easily customized with a variety of ingredients and flavors, making it a versatile go-to for busy weeknight dinners. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—using store-bought crescent dough saves time, while the filling can be adjusted to your preferences. It's essentially a shortcut version of homemade chicken pot pie but without all the fuss!

---

Ingredients List for Chicken Crescent Bake

To make the perfect Chicken Crescent Bake, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken from a previous meal. Both options work well and save time.
• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls: Store-bought crescent rolls keep the recipe quick and easy.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a rich, tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
• ½ cup cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a creamy texture to the chicken mixture.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Sour cream adds tanginess and moisture to the filling.
• ¼ cup milk: The milk helps to thin out the filling for the perfect consistency.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For extra flavor, garlic powder adds a subtle kick.
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder complements the garlic and enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This forms the base of the sauce, making it creamy and delicious.
• ½ cup milk (for the sauce): To combine with the cream of chicken soup for a smooth, pourable sauce.

---

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Crescent Bake is how easily customizable it is. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat options: Instead of chicken, you could use turkey, ham, or even cooked ground beef for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese options: Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add some cooked veggies like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Low-fat alternatives: Use reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese to make a lighter version of the dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Crescent roll alternative: If you don’t have crescent rolls, you could use puff pastry or make your own dough from scratch, though the store-bought variety saves considerable time.

These substitutions allow you to personalize the dish based on your family’s tastes or what you have on hand. With so many options, you can make this recipe your own each time you prepare it!

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the steps to make this delicious Chicken Crescent Bake recipe. Follow this easy guide to create a family-friendly meal that’s sure to impress.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Fill the crescent rolls: Open the can of crescent rolls and separate the dough into individual triangles. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle. Roll up each crescent, starting from the wide end and rolling toward the tip, sealing the filling inside.
4. Arrange in the baking dish: Place the filled crescent rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. They should fit snugly in a single layer.
5. Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and ½ cup of milk until smooth. Pour the sauce evenly over the crescent rolls in the baking dish.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
7. Cool and serve: Remove the Chicken Crescent Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

---

How to Cook Chicken Crescent Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

For a more detailed guide, here are some pro tips to ensure your Chicken Crescent Bake turns out perfect every time:

• Ensure even filling distribution: Make sure the chicken mixture is evenly distributed among the crescent rolls. Overfilling could cause the rolls to burst open while baking.
• Seal the edges tightly: Pinch the edges of the crescent rolls tightly to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
• Layer the sauce: Pour the sauce over the rolls just before baking, ensuring that each roll is coated. This prevents them from drying out and adds flavor to every bite.
• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your bake around the 20-minute mark. If the crescents are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the inside finishes cooking.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the crescent rolls: Too much filling can lead to spillage and messy rolls. Use just enough filling to roll them up comfortably.
• Undercooking the chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients. Raw chicken won’t cook properly in the crescent rolls.
• Skipping the sauce: Don’t skip pouring the sauce over the crescent rolls! It adds moisture and flavor, turning this dish into a creamy, delicious bake.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking, or the crescent rolls may cook unevenly.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving any dish, and Chicken Crescent Bake is no exception. Here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

1. Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can brighten up the look of the dish and add a pop of color.
2. Serve with sides: Pair the Chicken Crescent Bake with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
3. Family-style serving: Serve this dish straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner, or plate individual rolls with a drizzle of sauce for a more formal presentation.

---

How to Serve Chicken Crescent Bake

Chicken Crescent Bake is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can either serve the entire dish in the center of the table for a family-style dinner or plate individual servings for a more elegant presentation. Pair it with simple sides like steamed vegetables, a Caesar salad, or garlic bread to complete the meal. This dish is also hearty enough to stand on its own if you’re looking for a one-dish dinner option.

---

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Crescent Bake

If you want to wow your guests, consider these presentation ideas:

• Serve on a decorative platter: Arrange the crescent rolls neatly on a serving platter with the sauce drizzled over the top.
• Individual portions: Plate each crescent roll on its own small plate with a side of the creamy sauce spooned over the top for a gourmet touch.
• Add a pop of color: Garnish with bright herbs or serve with colorful side dishes like roasted carrots or sautéed spinach to make the meal visually appealing.

---

Chicken Crescent Bake Recipe Tips

• Use leftover chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken from another meal. Rotisserie chicken works especially well.
• Prep ahead: You can assemble the crescent rolls ahead of time, cover them, and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
• Reheat leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results. Microwaving might make the crescents soggy.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned chicken for Chicken Crescent Bake?
A: Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will give the dish better flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the crescent rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Look for gluten-free crescent roll dough and make sure your other ingredients, such as the cream of chicken soup, are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Crescent Bake?
A: Yes! You can freeze the baked dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.

---

Conclusion

Chicken Crescent Bake is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. Whether you're serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. With its customizable ingredients and foolproof steps, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!

Print