Deliciously Easy Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake : The Lazy Dinner You’ll Crave Again

Posted on August 31, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

cheesy chicken crescent bake in a casserole dish

When it comes to comfort food that’s both satisfying and simple, this Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake is a standout. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, this creamy, cheesy, flaky crescent roll casserole wraps tender chicken in buttery dough, bakes it in a savory sauce, and finishes with melted golden cheese.

If you’re a fan of recipes that use crescent rolls, love lazy dinners, or want a cozy chicken casserole, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals. It’s especially great for families, picky eaters, or anyone who wants a stress-free dinner with minimal cleanup.

Love cheesy recipes? You might also enjoy this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, which pair wonderfully with tonight’s bake.

What is Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake?

Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake is a comfort food casserole where shredded chicken is mixed with cream cheese and seasonings, wrapped in crescent roll dough, then baked in a creamy cheddar and chicken soup sauce. The final result? Buttery, fluffy rolls soaked in cheesy sauce, oozing with delicious flavor.

Crescent roll casseroles like this one are the ultimate lazy dinner solution. They require only a handful of ingredients, very little prep, and offer that comforting, homemade feel—without spending hours in the kitchen.

Looking for other cozy casseroles? Try this hearty Vegetable Casserole next!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish comes together quickly using common kitchen staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chopped green onions

This easy list makes it a great choice for a weeknight dinner using crescent rolls.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Keep things easy with basic tools you likely already have:

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven mitts
  • Non-stick spray or oil

This minimal equipment makes cleanup a breeze—just one more reason it’s perfect for lazy nights.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Combine until smooth and creamy.

Unroll the crescent rolls and separate the triangles. Add a spoonful of the chicken mixture to the wider end of each triangle. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk. Stir in the remaining cheddar cheese, then pour the mixture evenly over the crescent rolls.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and the sauce is bubbling.

Cool slightly, then garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.

Craving more fun with crescent dough? These Halloween-inspired Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs are great for kids or themed parties.

Tips for a Perfect Crescent Bake

Even though this recipe is simple, a few insider tips will make it even better:

  • Use rotisserie chicken to cut prep time in half.
  • Let cream cheese soften at room temperature to mix smoothly.
  • Don’t overfill the crescents; it makes them hard to roll and they may burst open.
  • Use a slotted spoon if your chicken is juicy—extra moisture can make the rolls soggy.
  • Bake uncovered so the crescent dough gets crisp and golden.

Love breakfast bakes too? Be sure to check out this Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Bake for a sweet, cozy morning dish.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Crescent Rolls

This cheesy casserole is a full meal on its own but pairs well with:

For visual appeal, serve it in a white ceramic dish with a sprinkle of herbs on top. Add a side of Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping or drizzle if you like a little heat.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

This bake is highly adaptable:

  • Try shredded turkey instead of chicken.
  • Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
  • Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or red bell peppers to the filling.
  • Use crescent sheets instead of pre-cut triangles to make larger rolls or pinwheels.

Want another cozy weeknight dish? Try the Baked Chicken Legs, a reader favorite that’s easy and flavorful.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This recipe stores and reheats beautifully.

In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

In the freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

To reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of milk or extra sauce if it dries out.

Want more freezer-friendly recipes? Check out these Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches that save time every morning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors for a flawless bake:

  • Overfilling crescents: causes breakage and undercooked centers.
  • Undercooking: results in doughy texture. Bake until golden brown.
  • Skipping the sauce: makes the dish dry and less flavorful.
  • Using cold ingredients: cream cheese and chicken should be room temp for easier mixing.

For more tips on working with crescent dough, try these cute and creative Mini Halloween Pizzas that use a similar dough base.

Why It’s Perfect for Lazy Dinners

Some nights you just want a satisfying meal without fuss. This Crescent Roll Casserole is your answer.

  • Prep takes 10–15 minutes max.
  • Everything goes into one pan.
  • The ingredients are simple and budget-friendly.
  • The result is a comforting, cheesy, flaky dish everyone loves.

If you like this one-pan wonder, try the One Pot Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya next—it’s packed with flavor and just as simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate the unbaked dish for up to 24 hours. Add the sauce just before baking.

Can I use canned chicken?
Absolutely! Drain and shred it well for best results.

What other soups can I use?
Try cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different twist.

How do I make it vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach and use a vegetarian cream soup.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use two baking dishes or a larger pan, and extend the bake time by 5–10 minutes.

Final Thoughts on This Comforting Crescent Bake

There’s something magical about the combination of buttery crescent rolls, savory chicken, and melty cheese. This Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake is everything a lazy dinner should be: easy, cozy, family-approved, and totally delicious.

It’s a versatile dish that you can customize with what you have on hand. Serve it with a salad, freeze a batch for later, or double it to feed a crowd. No matter how you serve it, this bake is destined to become a favorite.

Still in the mood for cheesy comfort food? Try this creamy Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin next!

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Deliciously Easy Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake : The Lazy Dinner You’ll Crave Again


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Cheesy, creamy, and weeknight-friendly, this Chicken Crescent Bake wraps a savory chicken-and-cream-cheese filling in buttery crescent dough, then bakes it under a quick sauce until golden and bubbling. It’s flexible (great for leftovers), fuss-free, and on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy nights and picky eaters.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 2 to 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftovers)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup milk

Yields: about 6 servings (easily doubled for a crowd).


Instructions

  1. Preheat: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded chicken, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy and well combined.
  3. Assemble rolls: Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Add 1–2 tablespoons filling to the wide end of each triangle, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
  4. Whisk the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth. Pour evenly over the assembled rolls.
  5. Bake: Bake 30–35 minutes until the crescents are golden and the sauce is bubbling. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Shortcut: Rotisserie chicken keeps prep fast and flavorful.
  • Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes the rolls hard to seal.
  • Seasoning boost: Add parsley or thyme; finish with parmesan for extra richness.
  • Make it spicy: Stir in jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Variations: Swap cheeses (mozzarella, Swiss, Monterey Jack) or add veggies (spinach, mushrooms).
  • Make-ahead: Assemble rolls (without sauce), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours; add sauce just before baking.
  • Freeze (unbaked): Freeze assembled rolls (no sauce) up to 2 months. Add sauce and bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes.
  • Leftovers: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat at 325°F until hot (oven keeps crescents crispier than microwave).
  • Serving ideas: Pair with a green salad, steamed veggies, or a light soup. Garnish with chopped parsley, a drizzle of cheese sauce, or a sprinkle of paprika.
  • Substitutions: Puff pastry works (flakier texture). For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms and spinach or your favorite plant-based protein.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake, crescent roll casserole, lazy dinner, easy weeknight dinner, family friendly, rotisserie chicken recipe, creamy chicken bake, crescent roll recipes

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