BBQ Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls Recipe
These BBQ Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls are a delicious blend of tangy barbecue flavors and flaky, buttery crescent rolls. Perfect for game day snacks, family gatherings, or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, they combine the comfort of classic BBQ chicken with the fun twist of a stuffed crescent roll. The gooey cheddar cheese, sweet red onion, and fresh cilantro add layers of flavor to every bite, making them irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients Overview
- 1 can refrigerated crescent rolls: Provides a buttery, flaky dough that wraps around the filling to create a golden crust.
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken: A great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy meal.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy kick; choose your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized touch.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside the crescent rolls, creating a gooey, cheesy filling.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion: Adds a slight crunch and a hint of sharpness that complements the BBQ sauce.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the filling.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Lay them out on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Step 3: Mix the BBQ Chicken Filling
In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Adjust the BBQ sauce amount to your preference for a saucier or drier filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Place a spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture on the wider end of each crescent triangle. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a few pieces of diced red onion and a pinch of chopped cilantro over the chicken.
Step 5: Roll Them Up
Starting at the wider end, roll each crescent triangle toward the point, enclosing the filling. Pinch the sides gently to prevent the filling from spilling out while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired for a pop of color.
Helpful Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for the filling.
- Choose a High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of the BBQ sauce plays a big role in this dish, so choose one that you really enjoy.
- Don’t Overfill the Rolls: Avoid adding too much filling, as it may leak out during baking.
- Add a Dash of Heat: For a spicier version, mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños with the chicken.
- Line the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to ensure the rolls don’t stick and for easy cleanup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked rolls. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. To maintain the flaky texture, avoid reheating in the microwave.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?
Yes, homemade crescent dough will work great.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate them covered for up to a day in advance, then bake when ready.
3. Can I substitute the cheese?
Absolutely, use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoked cheese for different flavors.
4. Can I add bacon?
Yes, cooked crumbled bacon makes a tasty addition.
5. Can I use leftover BBQ chicken?
Yes, leftover BBQ chicken works perfectly; just adjust the BBQ sauce amount.
6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Try using a BBQ jackfruit or plant-based chicken substitute.
7. Can I add more veggies?
Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños.
8. Can I use whole-wheat crescent rolls?
Yes, whole-wheat crescent rolls are a healthier alternative.
9. How can I prevent the filling from spilling out?
Make sure to pinch the edges closed after rolling.
10. Can I air-fry these?
Yes, air-fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
11. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shred it finely for easy mixing.
12. Can I use different herbs?
Try adding chives or parsley instead of cilantro.
13. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crescent dough.
14. How do I know when they are done?
They’re done when the crescent rolls are golden brown.
15. Can I serve these at room temperature?
They’re best served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
16. Can I brush the tops with butter?
Yes, brush with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder before baking.
17. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but bake in batches or use two baking sheets.
18. Can I add hot sauce to the BBQ sauce?
Yes, mix in a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
19. Can I make a dipping sauce?
Serve with extra BBQ sauce or ranch for dipping.
20. Can I add a crispy topping?
Try sprinkling crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Mix BBQ sauce with a bit of honey for a sweeter taste.
- Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Chill the chicken mixture before using to prevent runny filling.
- Don’t over-bake to avoid drying out the crescent rolls.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Use smoked cheese for a richer flavor.
- Sprinkle garlic powder on the dough for added flavor.
- Add a bit of cream cheese for a creamier filling.
- Garnish with extra cilantro after baking.
- Include crispy fried onions for a crunch.
- Avoid adding too much BBQ sauce to prevent sogginess.
- Toast the chicken mixture briefly in a skillet for extra flavor.
- Season the chicken with spices before mixing with BBQ sauce.
- Bake on the middle rack for even cooking.
- Turn halfway through baking for even browning.
- Use different fillings like buffalo chicken for variety.
- Mix in some diced pickles for a tangy bite.
- Serve with coleslaw for a classic BBQ pairing.
- Enjoy immediately after baking for the best taste.
