If you have been on the lookout for a snack that’s both comforting and delightfully cheesy, then this Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Flaky, golden puff pastry envelops a luscious blend of tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and fragrant herbs, creating irresistible rolls that are perfect for parties, family dinners, or a cozy afternoon nibble. The combination of gooey mozzarella, tangy Parmesan, and smooth cream cheese ensures each bite is bursting with flavor and texture, making these rolls a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for delivering the perfect Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe. Each one brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the flaky puff pastry creating that golden crust or the blend of cheeses that make the filling irresistibly creamy and savory.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use tender chicken breasts for a hearty, protein-packed filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds a smooth richness that binds the filling together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the creaminess.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and crunch.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic depth.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Adds a lovely herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle, warming spice.
- 1 sheet puff pastry (or 2 if you prefer larger rolls): The essential flaky wrapper that creates the magic.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Helps achieve that stunning golden-brown finish.
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash): Lightens the egg wash for an even glossy crust.
How to Make Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining the shredded chicken with all the cheeses and seasonings in a large mixing bowl. The mixture should be creamy but still chunky with bits of chicken and onion, ensuring every bite has a balance of flavors. Mixing everything well sets the stage for wonderfully rich and cohesive filling that won’t fall apart when you roll it into the pastry.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
Next, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Depending on the size you want, cut the pastry into either 4 squares if you’re using one sheet or 6 rectangles if you have two sheets. This cutting step is key for shaping uniform rolls that bake evenly and look beautiful on the plate.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and cheese filling into the center of each pastry piece. Be careful not to overfill, or the rolls may burst while baking. Fold the pastry over the filling and pinch the edges firmly to seal in all those delightful flavors. You can shape them as rectangles or triangles—the choice is yours and adds a bit of fun to the process!
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create the egg wash. Gently brush this over each roll’s surface. This step is a game-changer because it promotes that gorgeous golden color and glossy finish that elevates these rolls from simple snacks to elegant treats.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Place the sealed pastry rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them well apart so the heat circulates evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the pastry is puffed up and deliciously golden brown. The smell alone will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the rolls cool for a few minutes on a wire rack to avoid burning your mouth but still enjoy them warm. This slight cooling also helps the filling set just enough to prevent oozing out when you take that first bite. Serve them as is or with your favorite dipping sauce for extra indulgence.
How to Serve Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Finish off your Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. The vibrant green adds a fresh pop of color and complements the richness beautifully. For a little extra zing, drizzle a touch of garlic butter or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with light, crisp salads like a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. The fresh veggies balance out the richness of the rolls, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your presentation, serve the rolls on a wooden board alongside small bowls of marinara, ranch dressing, or even honey mustard for dipping. You can also cut some rolls in half diagonally to show off that luscious cheesy filling—perfect for parties or sharing with friends!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and remain just as delicious when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls by assembling them, placing them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you always have a quick, homemade snack ready to go!
Reheating
To bring your pastry rolls back to their crispy, flaky glory, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the pastry crisp and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that works perfectly. Just shred it well before mixing with the cheeses and seasonings.
What if I don’t have puff pastry? Can I use another dough?
Puff pastry gives these rolls their signature flaky texture, but you can substitute with crescent roll dough or even shortcrust pastry, though the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be mixed in with the filling to add color, flavor, and nutrition without overpowering the classic taste.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Make sure the filling is well combined and not too wet. Also, seal the pastry edges tightly and avoid overfilling. Baking on parchment paper helps crisp up the bottom.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing after baking?
You can freeze the baked rolls, but reheating in the oven is necessary to regain the pastry’s crispness. For best texture, freeze before baking and cook fresh later.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe is like inviting a little joy into your kitchen that also feeds your soul. It’s one of those recipes that feels both special and comforting at the same time. Whether you’re surprising your family, entertaining friends, or treating yourself, these rolls always hit the spot. Don’t hesitate to dive in and soak up the cheesy goodness wrapped in that golden, buttery pastry—you won’t regret it!
Print
Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls featuring a savory blend of shredded chicken, mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, baked to golden perfection with a glossy egg wash finish.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Pastry & Egg Wash
- 1 sheet puff pastry (or 2 if you prefer larger rolls)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet(s) on a lightly floured surface. If using one large sheet, cut it into 4 equal squares. If using two sheets, cut them into 6 rectangles or squares.
- Assemble the Rolls: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture into the center of each pastry square or rectangle.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the pastry over the filling to form a neat roll, pinching the edges to seal the roll tightly. You can fold them into triangles or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with the milk to create an egg wash. Brush the top of each pastry roll with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Arrange for Baking: Arrange the filled pastry rolls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pastry rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, and enjoy the deliciously cheesy, savory flavor!
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breasts for best texture and flavor.
- Puff pastry can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores—thaw before use.
- Egg wash ensures a golden brown and glossy finish.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling.
- These rolls can be made ahead and frozen; bake from frozen with an extra 5 minutes in the oven.
- Serve with a side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce if desired.
