Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Try these Pesto Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your family. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. Let’s dive into how to create these mouthwatering rolls that will make any weeknight meal a hit!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make pesto chicken stuffed crescent rolls, you will need:
– 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients if needed. Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Instead of cream cheese, try ricotta for a lighter texture. You can also use goat cheese for a tangy flavor. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try fresh cherry tomatoes. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Nutritional Information per Roll
Each roll contains about 180 calories. You get 8 grams of protein and 10 grams of fat. Each roll has 15 grams of carbs but only 1 gram of fiber. This dish gives a tasty boost to your meal without too many calories. Enjoy these rolls as a fun dinner or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, basil pesto, cream cheese, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until combined. This creates a creamy, flavorful filling.
3. Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it. Cut it into triangles along the perforations. Each triangle will hold the filling.
4. On the wide end of each triangle, place a generous tablespoon of the chicken and pesto mixture. Make sure it is enough for great flavor.
5. Roll each triangle from the wide end to the pointed end. Pinch the seams to seal the filled rolls. This keeps the filling secure inside.
6. Place the rolls on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. They need room to puff up while baking.
Baking Instructions
7. In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the rolls. This step gives them a beautiful golden color.
8. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and puffed up.
9. After baking, remove the rolls from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for Achieving Golden Brown Rolls
– Make sure to use the egg wash. This gives the rolls their shiny, golden finish.
– Space the rolls evenly on the baking sheet. This ensures even baking and browning.
– If your rolls are not browning, you can broil them for the last minute. Watch closely so they don’t burn.
– Avoid opening the oven door too often while baking. This helps maintain a consistent temperature for better browning.
Tips & Tricks
How to Make Ahead
You can prepare the filling a day before. Mix the chicken, pesto, cream cheese, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, and black pepper. Store it in the fridge. This saves time on busy nights. When ready, unroll the crescent dough and fill it with your cold mixture. You can bake them fresh right before serving.
Best Practices for Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Place them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives a nice golden color. Also, be sure to seal the seams well when rolling. If not sealed, the filling may leak out during baking. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each roll space to puff up and brown evenly.
Variations
Different Fillings Ideas
You can mix up the filling for your pesto chicken stuffed rolls. Try using cooked turkey in place of chicken. You can also add spinach for more veggies. If you enjoy bold flavors, add feta cheese or olives. For a spicy kick, mix in jalapeños or crushed red pepper. You could even use a blend of different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. The options are endless, and each mix brings a new taste!
Alternative Dough Options
While crescent roll dough works great, you can explore other doughs. Pizza dough gives a chewy texture. You can also use puff pastry for a flaky and airy bite. If you want a low-carb option, try almond flour dough. Each dough choice changes the taste and feel of the rolls. Experiment to find your favorite!
Suggested Dips and Sauces
Dipping sauces can enhance your meal. A simple marinara sauce pairs well with the rolls. You might also enjoy ranch dressing or garlic aioli for extra flavor. For a zesty twist, try a balsamic glaze. If you like heat, add a spicy sriracha mayo. Each dip offers a fun way to enjoy your rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Side Dishes
You can make your meal even better by adding side dishes. A fresh salad goes great with these rolls. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables also pair well. Think about carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. They add color and flavor. You could also serve garlic bread for a nice touch. The crunch of the bread complements the soft rolls. For a heartier option, try a side of pasta. A light pesto pasta can tie everything together nicely.
Best Beverage Pairings
When it comes to drinks, you have many options. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, matches well. It balances the flavors of the pesto and chicken. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with lemon. The fizz refreshes your palate. Another fun choice is iced tea with mint. It adds a nice herbal note that pairs well with the dish.
Plating Ideas for Presentation
Presentation makes your meal look more inviting. Start by placing the rolls on a large platter. You can stack them in a pyramid shape for height. Drizzle some pesto sauce on top for color. Garnish with fresh basil leaves around the edges. This adds a pop of green. You can also serve the rolls with a small bowl of marinara sauce on the side. This gives guests a fun dipping option. Use a colorful plate to make the dish stand out. A great presentation makes your meal feel special.
FAQs
How do I store leftover Pesto Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls?
To store leftover rolls, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm.
Can I freeze the stuffed rolls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed rolls before baking. Simply prepare the rolls and arrange them on a baking sheet. Make sure they do not touch each other. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, cook them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of cream cheese in the recipe?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt. Both options will keep the rolls creamy. You can also use sour cream for a tangy twist. Each choice adds a unique flavor to the filling.
In this article, we explored how to make Pesto Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. We also discussed variations and serving suggestions to enhance your dish.
These rolls are tasty and easy to make. Use the tips shared to avoid mistakes. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and dips. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your delicious rolls!
