As the sun sets on a warm Southern evening, the tantalizing smell of BBQ wafts through the air, setting the scene for a comforting meal that brings people together. I can’t help but smile just thinking about these BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls, a dish that takes me back to family gatherings where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the sweet tea. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up these golden, flaky rolls filled with tender shredded chicken smothered in zesty BBQ sauce, nestled beside sweet baked beans and gooey cheddar cheese.
Whether you’re looking to shake up your weeknight routine or impress friends at your next potluck, these delightful rolls are as versatile as they are delicious. Their rich flavors and cozy vibes make them a true Southern comfort, promising to warm hearts and satiate appetites alike. Ready to dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that embodies the warmth of Southern cooking? Let’s get started!
Why are BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: Just 10 minutes of prep leads to a flavorful dish that’s quick and effortless.
Comfort food reimagined: Each roll is a warm embrace of tender chicken, zesty BBQ, and creamy cheese, perfect for cozy dinners.
Customization options galore: Add your favorite spices or swap ingredients for a personal touch.
Perfect for gatherings: The appealing presentation and delightful flavors make them a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Versatile side: Serve alongside coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Check out our guide on easy weeknight meals for more inspiration!
BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls Ingredients
For the Rolls
- Crescent Roll Dough – This pre-made dough provides the perfect flaky texture and saves time; you can use homemade dough for a fresh twist.
- Shredded Chicken – Packed with protein, this ingredient adds substance; for a quick option, use rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor with minimum effort.
- BBQ Sauce – A key player that brings a smoky, sweet flavor to your rolls; feel free to use your favorite homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce.
- Baked Beans – These contribute a lovely, sweet earthy undertone; substitute with caramelized onions for a different flavor profile if desired.
- Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese – This melty cheese adds creaminess and richness; alternate cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can elevate the flavor.
- Melted Butter – Enhances richness and aids in browning; opt for olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
- BBQ Seasoning (Weber) – This is optional but adds an extra depth of flavor; switch it out for your preferred BBQ blend to personalize your rolls.
Transform your dinner with these BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls, a delightful Southern dish sure to charm any home chef!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls
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Preheat the Oven: Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking these delicious rolls.
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Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until everything is well-coated and excitedly mingled.
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Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles, getting ready for the filling.
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Layer the Ingredients: At the base of each triangle, spoon on a few baked beans, add the BBQ chicken mixture, and top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
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Roll Them Up: Tightly roll each triangle from the wide base to the point, placing them seam-side down on an ungreased baking sheet.
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Add Final Touches: Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle BBQ seasoning over each roll for an extra flavor kick.
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Bake to Perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and flaky.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for added yum!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls
Fridge: Keep leftover BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they return to their golden, flaky glory.
Make-Ahead Tip: The BBQ chicken filling can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to bake.
BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls Variations
Get creative with your BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls and discover an array of delicious options to elevate your dish!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute shredded chicken with jackfruit or additional beans for a meat-free version that’s equally satisfying.
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta to enhance the flavor profile and add a unique twist.
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Spice It Up: Add spices such as cumin or crushed red pepper flakes to the BBQ filling for a touch of warmth and zing!
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Sweet & Savory: Blend in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup with the BBQ sauce to amplify the sweetness for more depth.
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Fruit Fusion: Throw in diced pineapple or apple for a fun, sweet-and-savory component that complements the BBQ beautifully.
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Crunch Factor: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for that extra crunch and savory goodness everyone loves.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can bring freshness and bright notes that cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce.
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Puff Pastry Option: Swap crescent roll dough for puff pastry for a flaky, luxurious texture that takes these rolls to the next level.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! To prep ahead, you can prepare the filling (shredded chicken and BBQ sauce mixture) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while maintaining freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy these rolls, simply unroll the crescent dough, layer in the baked beans, BBQ chicken filling, and cheese, then roll them up. Bake them fresh when you want them, and you’ll have delicious, golden rolls ready to impress your family in no time!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls?
Create a memorable meal with delightful pairings that bring out the best in these savory rolls.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that adds freshness and balances the richness of the rolls, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Light and crisp, this salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette will complement the hearty flavors of the rolls perfectly.
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Creamy Mac ‘n Cheese: Rich and comforting, this classic side dish provides a creamy counterpart to the slightly smoky BBQ flavors in the rolls.
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Sweet Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of fresh corn pairs beautifully with the BBQ, offering a vibrant touch to your plate that enhances the Southern vibe.
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Baked Beans: Layering on even more comforting flavors, these sweet and savory beans amplify the BBQ theme, creating a harmonious meal.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these can serve as a delightful pairing for those who want an extra dose of comfort food alongside their rolls.
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Sliced Watermelon: For a refreshing and juicy finish, light watermelon slices offer a sweet contrast to the rich BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls.
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Lemonade: A tall glass of homemade lemonade adds a refreshing, tart touch that cuts through the richness, making every bite more memorable.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A sweet ending to your meal, these classic cookies will evoke nostalgia and complete the comfort food experience beautifully.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your crescent rolls as they bake! Checking a minute early ensures they stay golden and flaky rather than dry.
- Prep Ahead: For a quicker weeknight meal, prepare the BBQ chicken filling a day in advance; this makes assembling your rolls a breeze when hunger strikes.
- Flavor Balance: If using homemade BBQ sauce, taste and adjust spices accordingly. Remember, the sauce should enhance the savory flavor of the rolls without being overly sweet.
- Dough Handling: Don’t stretch the crescent roll dough too much when rolling; keeping it compact helps maintain that desirable flaky texture.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! The BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls can be customized with ingredients you love—consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or using different cheeses for varied flavors.
BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! The right BBQ sauce can make or break your rolls. I recommend selecting a sauce that strikes a balance between sweetness and tanginess. If you’re up for it, making your own sauce allows you to customize flavors to your preference!
Can I prepare BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls in advance?
Very! You can prepare the BBQ chicken filling up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply assemble your rolls, which cuts down on prep time during those busy weeknights!
How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze the rolls for later?
Indeed! To freeze, wrap each roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
What if my crescent rolls don’t bake evenly?
Keep an eye on them as they bake! Oven temperatures can vary; if one side seems to brown faster, rotate the baking sheet halfway through for more even baking. If your rolls are undercooked or overbaked, adjusting cooking times in future batches can help you achieve that perfect golden flakiness!
Are these rolls suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by swapping out shredded chicken for jackfruit or an extra serving of baked beans. Just be sure to check your BBQ sauce for any allergens, and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative if necessary.
BBQ Chicken Crescent Rolls: A Southern Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well-coated.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.
- At the base of each triangle, spoon baked beans, add BBQ chicken mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Roll each triangle from the wide base to the point, placing seam-side down on a baking sheet.
- Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle BBQ seasoning over each roll.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.