Chicken Crescent Bake Recipe

Looking for a quick, family-friendly meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? This Chicken Crescent Bake recipe is a must-try! It combines flaky crescent rolls, tender chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner when you’re craving something warm and hearty. Plus, with a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Keep reading for the full recipe and tips to make this dish perfect every time!

What Is Chicken Crescent Bake?

Chicken Crescent Bake is a comforting casserole-style dish made by wrapping cooked chicken in crescent roll dough and baking it in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The crescent rolls puff up in the oven to create a golden, flaky crust, while the chicken and sauce stay warm and flavorful inside. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken and is a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients List for Chicken Crescent Bake

To make this simple and delicious Chicken Crescent Bake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup for variation)
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for flavor and color)

For Garnish (optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Paprika or extra cheese for topping

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to get creative or make substitutions based on your preferences and dietary needs:

• Chicken options: Use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken for a quick option.
• Cream of chicken soup alternatives: Swap out cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom, celery, or even a homemade cream sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms to add some veggies to the dish.
• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
• Gluten-free crescent rolls: Use gluten-free crescent rolls if you need a gluten-free option, available at many grocery stores.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the details on how to make this delicious Chicken Crescent Bake. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for even novice cooks!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

1. Open the can of crescent rolls and separate the dough into the individual triangles.
2. Place a small portion of the cooked, shredded chicken at the wider end of each crescent triangle.
3. Roll up each crescent from the wide end to the point, tucking in the chicken as you go.
4. Place the filled crescent rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
2. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for extra flavor (optional).
3. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until combined.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Crescents

• Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the crescent rolls, making sure all of them are covered. The sauce will bubble up and coat the crescents as they bake, creating a rich and flavorful dish.

Step 5: Add Extra Cheese (Optional)

• If you want an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar cheese over the top before placing the dish in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and puffed, and the sauce is bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese, if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This recipe is simple, but here are a few things to watch out for to ensure the best results:

• Under-baking the crescent rolls: Make sure the crescent rolls are fully baked and golden brown before removing them from the oven. Under-baked rolls can be doughy in the center.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Ensure there's enough space between each crescent roll in the baking dish so they bake evenly and puff up nicely.
• Not seasoning the chicken: Make sure to season the chicken before rolling it up. This helps to add flavor to every bite.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Crescent Bake is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here’s how to serve and present this dish for maximum appeal:

How to Serve Chicken Crescent Bake

• Family style: Serve the entire baking dish straight from the oven and allow everyone to help themselves.
• Individual portions: Use a spatula to carefully lift out each crescent roll onto individual plates. Be sure to scoop some of the sauce from the bottom of the dish onto each portion.
• Add sides: Pair the Chicken Crescent Bake with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Crescent Bake

• Rustic presentation: Garnish with a handful of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color before serving.
• Elegant serving: If you’re serving guests, try arranging the crescent rolls neatly in a circle or spiral pattern in a round baking dish for an elegant touch.
• Extra cheesy top: Add an extra layer of shredded cheese on top halfway through baking for a gooey, golden finish.

Chicken Crescent Bake Recipe Tips

To ensure your Chicken Crescent Bake turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the entire dish a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by about 5 minutes if baking from cold.
• Add extra protein: For an extra protein boost, try adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the filling along with the chicken.
• Use rotisserie chicken: To save time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s quick, easy, and flavorful, making this recipe even more convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use homemade crescent dough?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own crescent dough from scratch, it will work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure the dough is rolled thin enough to wrap around the chicken, and adjust the baking time as needed.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Crescent Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Assemble the crescent rolls with chicken, then freeze before adding the sauce. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the sauce, and bake as directed.

Q: Can I make this dish with different types of cheese?
A: Yes! While cheddar works wonderfully, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Q: What sides go well with Chicken Crescent Bake?
A: This dish pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

This Chicken Crescent Bake recipe is a warm, comforting, and delicious dish that’s sure to please the whole family. The combination of flaky crescent rolls, tender chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is simple, quick, and guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out tonight, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy chicken casserole!

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