Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls are like little pockets of spicy, cheesy goodness wrapped in soft, flaky dough. These rolls are filled with tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, plus a melty mix of cheeses all baked until golden brown. The combination of spicy and creamy with the buttery crescent rolls makes them a total crowd-pleaser.
I love making these when I’m looking for a fun game day snack or a quick party appetizer. They’re super easy to whip up and always disappear fast because who can resist that buffalo kick? My tip is to have some ranch or blue cheese dressing nearby for dipping—it just makes everything taste even better and balances out the heat.
These rolls are also perfect for casual dinners when you want something a little different but still pretty simple. I sometimes serve them with a crisp side salad or some crunchy veggies, and they feel like a special treat without any extra fuss. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are great for a lunch the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is what gives the rolls their soft and flaky texture. If you can’t find crescent dough, puff pastry works well too. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crescent dough or use small tortillas for a twist.
Cooked Chicken: I like using shredded rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds good flavor. You can also boil or bake chicken breasts yourself, then shred them. For a lighter option, use shredded turkey instead.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This is the star for that spicy kick. Frank’s RedHot is my go-to, but you can make your own by mixing hot sauce with a little melted butter. If you want less heat, try a milder hot sauce or reduce the amount.
Cream Cheese & Cheddar: Cream cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the filling. Cheddar gives that sharp flavor. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. For a dairy-free choice, use vegan cream cheese and cheese.
Blue Cheese Crumbles (Optional): Adds a tangy bite if you like blue cheese. If you’re not a fan, just leave it out — the rolls will still be tasty.
Green Onions: They add a fresh bite and color. You can use chives or finely chopped mild white onion as a substitute.
How Do You Roll and Cut the Crescent Dough Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling and slicing can be tricky if the dough tears or filling spills out. Here’s how to keep it neat:
- Press the dough triangles gently but firmly to seal the perforations so you get one big sheet. This stops the filling from leaking out.
- Spread the filling evenly but not too thickly—leave about ½ inch free on edges so the filling doesn’t squeeze out when rolling.
- Roll from the longest side tightly but gently, keeping everything inside.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts—wiping the blade between slices helps prevent sticking.
- Space the rolls a bit on the baking sheet so they bake evenly without bursting apart.
Following these steps will help your rolls hold together nicely and look great after baking!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend one with a rim to hold the rolls and prevent spills. It’s perfect for baking evenly.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the filling ingredients; a good-sized bowl makes mixing easier.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to cut clean slices without squishing the rolls.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – for spreading the filling smoothly over the dough.
- Parchment paper or non-stick baking mat – helps keep the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or shredded buffalo cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
- Add diced celery or carrots to the filling for extra crunch and freshness.
- Replace cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for different cheesy flavors.
- Mix in chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herb twist.
Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12–15 minutes to bake, for a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick and perfect when you want a tasty snack or appetizer without much wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to keep your crescent rolls from sticking.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, blue cheese crumbles (if using), and sliced green onions. Mix everything well until it forms a smooth, spicy filling.
3. Prepare the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface. Press the perforations together with your fingers to create one large sheet instead of triangles—this helps keep the filling inside.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting at one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
5. Slice and Bake:
Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into 1-inch thick slices. Place each slice cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space for them to expand while baking. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the rolls cool down a bit, then sprinkle with extra chopped green onions. Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding and mixing it with the buffalo sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Prepare Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a couple extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave gently until heated through.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! Use milder buffalo sauce or reduce how much you mix in to lower the heat. You can also serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing to help balance the spiciness.
