Imagine a bite that marries the comforting familiarity of a classic chicken salad with the buttery, flaky allure of a crescent roll. Delightful Chicken Salad Crescent Rolls deliver exactly that—a handheld masterpiece that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy chicken salad tucked inside a golden, puffed dough that rises to a light, airy finish. A subtle hint of herbs and a splash of lemon keep the flavors bright, while the crescent roll adds a satisfying crunch.
This dish is ideal for busy families, brunch gatherings, or a quick office lunch. Kids love the fun shape, and adults appreciate the sophisticated flavor profile. Serve it for a casual weekend brunch or as a standout addition to a potluck spread.
The process is straightforward: prepare a classic chicken salad, roll it into refrigerated crescent dough, bake until puffed, and finish with a drizzle of herb‑infused mayo. In under half an hour you’ll have a crowd‑pleasing centerpiece.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Convenient One‑Dish Meal: Everything cooks in the same pan and oven, so cleanup is minimal and you can get dinner on the table fast.
Flavor Layers: The creamy chicken salad provides depth, while the crescent roll adds a buttery crunch that keeps each bite interesting.
Kid‑Friendly Appeal: The hand‑held shape and mild seasoning make it a hit with younger palates without sacrificing adult sophistication.
Versatile Serving: Perfect hot from the oven, yet it also works beautifully chilled for picnics or lunchboxes.
Ingredients
The foundation of this dish is a classic chicken salad made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a light mayo‑lemon dressing. The refrigerated crescent roll dough provides a buttery, flaky envelope that rises beautifully in the oven. Fresh herbs and a touch of Dijon give the filling a bright, sophisticated lift, while a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a subtle crunch.
Chicken Salad Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red grapes, halved
- ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds
Dressing & Seasoning
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried tarragon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crescent Roll Assembly
- 1 (8‑ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: extra slivered almonds for topping
Each component plays a crucial role: the shredded chicken provides a tender base, while celery and grapes contribute crunch and a hint of sweetness. The mayo‑Dijon blend delivers creaminess without overwhelming the palate, and the lemon brightens the overall profile. The crescent roll dough lifts the filling into a light, buttery pocket that stays crisp even after baking. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious bite that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Salad
In a large bowl combine 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded, ½ cup celery, ¼ cup red grapes, and ¼ cup toasted slivered almonds. In a separate smaller bowl whisk together ⅓ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, ½ teaspoon dried tarragon, then season with salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, toss gently until everything is evenly coated, and set aside while you work with the dough.
Shape the Crescent Rolls
Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough onto a clean surface; you should see eight pre‑cut triangles. Lightly press the perforations to seal each triangle into a single sheet. Using a sharp knife, cut each triangle in half lengthwise, creating two narrower wedges. This will give you sixteen smaller pieces—perfect for individual rolls.
Assemble the Rolls
- Lay Out the Dough. Place each wedge point‑down on a parchment‑lined baking sheet, leaving a small gap between pieces to allow for expansion.
- Add Filling. Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of the prepared chicken salad onto the wide end of each wedge, spreading gently but leaving a margin of about ¼ inch from the edge to prevent leaking.
- Roll Carefully. Starting at the wide end, roll the dough over the filling, tucking the seam underneath. The pointy tip should end up on top, creating a classic crescent silhouette.
- Egg Wash. Brush each assembled roll with the beaten egg; this will give the crust a glossy, golden finish. If desired, sprinkle a few extra slivered almonds on top for added texture.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes, or until they are puffed, golden brown, and the edges are crisp. The interior filling will be hot and the dough will have a light, buttery crumb. Remove from the oven and let the rolls rest for 3 minutes before serving, allowing the steam to settle and the flavors to meld.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Chill the Filling. Keep the chicken salad refrigerated until just before assembly. Cold filling helps the dough stay firm and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Seal the Edge. Lightly press the seam with a fork after rolling. This creates a tighter seal and keeps the filling from escaping during baking.
Don’t Overfill. Using too much chicken salad can cause the dough to split. A tablespoon per roll is ideal for a balanced bite.
Flavor Enhancements
Add a teaspoon of capers to the dressing for a briny pop, or stir in a handful of chopped fresh dill for an herbaceous twist. A drizzle of honey‑mustard glaze right after baking adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the egg wash will result in a dull, pale crust. Also, avoid baking at a temperature lower than 350°F; the dough needs enough heat to puff quickly, otherwise it can become dense and greasy.
Pro Tips
Use a Light Hand with the Dough. Over‑working the crescent dough can develop excess gluten, making the roll tough rather than flaky.
Rotate the Sheet Mid‑Bake. Halfway through baking, turn the pan 180° to ensure even browning on all sides.
Finish with a Light Sprinkle. A pinch of flaky sea salt just after baking enhances the buttery flavor and adds a pleasant crunch.
Serve Warm, Not Hot. Allow the rolls to cool for a couple of minutes; this prevents the filling from spilling and lets the crust set.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Replace chicken with diced cooked turkey or smoked salmon for a different protein profile. Swap grapes for dried cranberries or chopped apples to vary the sweet component. For a richer dough, use puff pastry sheets instead of crescent roll dough; the texture will be even more delicate.
Dietary Adjustments
Use a gluten‑free crescent roll blend or a cauliflower‑based pastry for a grain‑free version. Substitute regular mayo with a vegan avocado‑based spread, and choose almond‑based slivered nuts for a dairy‑free, nut‑friendly alternative. A low‑carb version can omit the almonds and use a sugar‑free sweetener in the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the rolls with a light cucumber‑mint salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. For heartier meals, serve alongside herb‑roasted potatoes or a warm quinoa pilaf. A simple fruit platter of berries balances the savory richness with natural sweetness.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer keeping, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. The dough retains its flakiness when reheated properly, and the chicken salad remains fresh.
Reheating Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat for 10–12 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil for the final 2 minutes to restore crispness. For a quicker option, microwave individual rolls on medium power for 45 seconds, adding a splash of broth to keep the filling moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
This recipe delivers a delightful marriage of creamy chicken salad and buttery crescent pastry, all in a convenient, hand‑held form. By following the detailed steps, storage tips, and variations, you’ll master a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual brunches to elegant gatherings. Feel free to experiment with herbs, nuts, or alternative proteins to make it truly yours. Enjoy every flaky, flavorful bite!
