These Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Crescent Rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining tender shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, and flavorful marinara sauce all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crescent roll. With every bite, you get the comforting taste of chicken Parmesan in a fun and easy-to-eat form. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light dinner, these stuffed rolls are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients Overview
- 1 can of crescent roll dough:
Provides a soft, buttery crust that wraps around the filling. The pre-made dough makes the recipe quick and easy. - 1 cup cooked shredded chicken:
The base of the filling, providing lean protein. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken breast, or even canned chicken in a pinch. - 1/2 cup marinara sauce:
Adds a rich, tomatoey flavor to the filling. Opt for a quality marinara sauce or make your own for an extra special touch. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese:
Melts beautifully inside the crescent roll, adding that gooey, cheesy goodness. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese:
Brings a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the classic Chicken Parmesan taste. - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning:
A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that adds a delicious Italian aroma and flavor. - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:
Enhances the savory taste of the filling. - Salt and pepper to taste:
Season to your preference to enhance all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the crescent rolls from sticking and to make cleanup easier. - Prepare the Crescent Rolls:
Roll out the crescent roll dough on a clean, flat surface and separate it into individual triangles. This dough is soft, so handle gently to avoid tearing. - Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed and coated in the sauce. - Fill the Crescent Rolls:
Spoon a generous tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Carefully roll up each triangle, starting at the wide end and tucking in the sides as needed to seal the filling inside. - Bake the Crescent Rolls:
Arrange the stuffed crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. - Serve Warm:
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage:
Place leftover crescent rolls in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezing:
To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. - Reheating:
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, though the crust may not be as crisp.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, provolone or fontina cheese can be used instead of mozzarella for a different flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
3. Do I have to use marinara sauce?
You can substitute pizza sauce or Alfredo sauce for a different taste.
4. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, just be sure to drain it well before mixing with the other ingredients.
5. Should the chicken be warm or cold when I mix it?
The chicken can be warm or cold, but mixing is easier when it’s room temperature.
6. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms would make tasty additions.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crescent roll dough and make sure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
8. Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?
Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully if you prefer a from-scratch recipe.
9. Should I grease the baking sheet if I don’t have parchment paper?
Yes, lightly grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
10. Can I add some spice to the filling?
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will add a little heat.
11. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch.
12. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
13. Do I need to cover the rolls with foil when baking?
No, they bake uncovered. The foil is unnecessary for this recipe.
14. Can I add fresh herbs to the filling?
Chopped basil or parsley adds a fresh, bright flavor to the filling.
15. Should I let the rolls cool before serving?
Yes, allow them to cool for 5 minutes to avoid burning your mouth.
16. Can I brush the tops with butter before baking?
Brushing with melted garlic butter adds extra flavor and helps the rolls brown nicely.
17. Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?
Yes, extra marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli would be delicious.
18. Can I use crescent roll dough sheets instead?
Yes, just cut the dough sheets into triangles.
19. How many servings does this recipe make?
It makes about 8 stuffed crescent rolls.
20. Can I add extra cheese on top before baking?
Yes, a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking adds extra flavor.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan for Maximum Flavor:
It melts better and has a stronger taste than pre-grated. - Pre-Cook the Chicken with Seasonings for More Flavor:
Season the chicken with Italian spices before shredding for deeper flavor. - Use a High-Quality Marinara Sauce for the Best Taste:
A good marinara sauce elevates the whole dish. - Don’t Overfill the Crescent Rolls to Avoid Spillage:
Stick to a heaping tablespoon of filling. - Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes for Some Heat:
If you enjoy a bit of spice, this will add a kick. - Top the Rolls with Garlic Butter Before Baking:
It enhances the flavor and gives a golden crust. - Sprinkle a Little Extra Mozzarella Inside for Extra Cheesiness:
Double the cheese for gooey goodness. - Use Room Temperature Dough for Easier Handling:
It makes the dough more pliable and easier to roll. - Line the Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper for Easy Cleanup:
Parchment paper prevents sticking and simplifies cleaning. - Chop Fresh Basil for a Finishing Touch:
Garnish with basil for a pop of color and freshness. - Serve with a Side of Marinara for Dipping:
Extra sauce is always a good idea. - Add a Dash of Balsamic Vinegar for a Rich Depth of Flavor:
It balances the acidity in the marinara sauce. - Reheat Leftovers in the Oven to Keep the Crust Crisp:
Avoid microwaving for the best texture. - Experiment with Different Cheeses for Variety:
Try provolone, gouda, or Asiago for different flavor profiles. - Brush with Egg Wash for an Even Golden Brown Finish:
Egg wash adds shine and color. - Freeze Unbaked Rolls for Quick Meals Later:
They can be baked straight from frozen, just add a few minutes to the cooking time. - Chop the Chicken Finely for Better Mixing with the Cheese and Sauce:
It ensures every bite has an even distribution of flavors. - Add Spinach for a Nutritious Twist:
Chopped fresh spinach adds nutrients and color. - Try a Pizza Sauce Filling for a New Flavor Combo:
Use pizza sauce instead of marinara for a unique twist. - Let the Baked Rolls Rest for 5 Minutes Before Serving:
This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burns.