There is something truly delightful about the perfect bite-sized appetizer that combines creamy, savory flavors with golden, flaky pastry. The Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe is just that kind of dish. These little pockets of joy feature tender, flavorful chicken salad tucked inside buttery crescent rolls, sprinkled with poppy seeds for a subtle crunch and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a light lunch, or simply craving a comforting snack, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Let’s dive into how to create these irresistible Chicken Salad Crescents!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chicken Salad Crescents lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—bringing together flavor, texture, and that inviting appearance. From the creamy mayonnaise to the crisp celery, every component is essential to achieving a perfectly balanced and tasty treat.
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie for tender, juicy protein that forms the hearty base.
- 1 cup diced celery: Adds a fresh crunch and brightness that cuts through the creaminess of the salad.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Provides depth and a subtle savory tang to elevate the chicken salad.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
- ¼ tsp pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- ¾ cup mayonnaise: Creates that luscious, creamy texture binding all the ingredients together.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: Introduces a mild, sweet onion flavor without overpowering the salad.
- 3 (8-oz) cans crescent rolls: The golden, flaky pastry that wraps the filling and bakes up beautifully.
- 12 slices cheese (cut into 4 strips): Cheddar or your favorite cheese adds richness and a melty surprise inside each crescent.
- Poppy seeds: Sprinkled on top for a delicate crunch and ornamental finish.
How to Make Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF. Line a cookie sheet or baking pan with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your crescents don’t stick and bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust every time.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Salad
Combine the chopped cooked chicken, diced celery, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, and onion powder in a bowl. Stir everything together gently until the ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture is the heart of the crescents—a blend of creamy, savory, and slightly crisp that tastes incredible.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Open the cans of crescent rolls and separate them into triangles. Cut each triangle in half again, creating two smaller triangles from each. This increases the number of bites you’ll get, perfect for sharing.
Step 4: Assemble the Crescents
Place one-quarter of a slice of cheese on each crescent triangle. Add about a tablespoon of the chicken salad on top of the cheese. Carefully roll up the crescent, starting from the wider end, ensuring the filling stays inside. Arrange them on your prepared cookie sheet and finish off with a sprinkling of poppy seeds for that elegant touch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your assembled crescents for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The scent alone will have you reaching for one before they’re even cooled. When ready, these little bundles are crisp on the outside with a flavorful, creamy inside that simply melts in your mouth.
How to Serve Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation of your Chicken Salad Crescents. Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives add a dash of color and freshness. A light drizzle of honey mustard dip or a side of tangy cranberry sauce complements the creamy chicken salad beautifully and offers a nice balance of flavors.
Side Dishes
These crescents make a great appetizer but also pair wonderfully with light side dishes. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a chilled fresh fruit salad are excellent companions. These combinations add texture and a splash of brightness to your meal without overshadowing the crescents.
Creative Ways to Present
Presenting Chicken Salad Crescents can be as charming as the recipe itself. Arrange them neatly on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces for a casual yet sophisticated feel. Or, serve on a tiered platter at a brunch or party for an eye-catching display that invites guests to dig in. Adding edible flowers or colorful napkins can instantly elevate the vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, preserving that delightful filling and flaky crust.
Freezing
The Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe also freezes well. Prepare and assemble the crescents but don’t bake. Place them on a tray in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the crescents into a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 8 to 10 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick in your Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese. The recipe still turns out delicious and creamy.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Make sure to chop it finely to blend well with the other ingredients.
What if I don’t have poppy seeds? Can I skip them?
Poppy seeds add a pleasant texture and visual appeal but are not mandatory. You can skip or substitute with sesame seeds or a light sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning if you want a different flavor profile.
How long do the crescents stay fresh after baking?
They’re best enjoyed the same day for optimal flakiness, but they keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just reheat them gently to bring back some crispness.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe enough for anyone who loves a blend of comfort and elegance in their bite-sized bites. The ease of preparation combined with the mouthwatering flavors makes it a go-to for casual get-togethers or even a special treat for yourself. Don’t wait to whip up a batch and enjoy the warm, savory goodness that’s sure to brighten any table and mood.
Print
Chicken Salad Crescents Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 48 crescents
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Salad Crescents are a delightful appetizer featuring tender chicken salad wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough, baked to golden perfection and sprinkled with poppy seeds. Perfect for parties or a savory snack, these bite-sized treats combine creamy chicken salad with melted cheddar cheese within crispy crescents.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Crescents
- 3 (8-oz) cans crescent rolls
- 12 slices cheddar cheese, cut into 4 strips each
- Poppy seeds, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and line a cookie sheet or baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the crescents from sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Prepare Chicken Salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, diced celery, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a creamy chicken salad.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Separate the crescent rolls into individual triangles as per the package instructions. Then, cut each triangle in half horizontally to form two smaller triangles from each original piece.
- Assemble Crescents: On each small crescent triangle, place a quarter slice of cheddar cheese, then add about one tablespoon of the prepared chicken salad on top. Carefully roll up the crescent from the wide end to the pointed end, enclosing the filling. Arrange the rolled crescents on the prepared cookie sheet. Repeat until all ingredients are used. Finally, sprinkle poppy seeds over the tops for added flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crescents are puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is well-chilled before mixing with mayonnaise to keep the salad fresh and firm for easier rolling.
- If desired, substitute cheddar cheese with other types like Swiss or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Poppy seeds add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor—feel free to omit or replace with sesame seeds if preferred.
- For a lower-fat version, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayonnaise.
- These crescents can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before baking.
