If you’re searching for a delicious, quick, and family-approved meal, look no further than Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups. These savory cups combine tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy goodness wrapped in golden crescent dough, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want a comforting yet simple dish. With their blend of flavors and textures, Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups never fail to delight taste buds young and old.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for hectic evenings when time is tight.
- Kid-friendly flavors: Mild and cheesy ingredients make this recipe a hit with kids and picky eaters.
- Versatile meal: Great as an appetizer, snack, or main course depending on how you serve it.
- Nutritious components: Packed with lean protein and fresh broccoli, blending taste with health.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare and keep them refrigerated or frozen for later enjoyment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each contributing a unique flavor, satisfying texture, or appealing color to the finished Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups. These basics are easy to find yet combine to create something truly special.
- Canned chicken: Ready-to-use shredded chicken cuts down on prep time without sacrificing taste.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant green color and a slight crunch for texture.
- Crescent roll dough: Provides a buttery, flaky crust that wraps all the fillings perfectly.
- Shredded cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates irresistibly gooey and savory pockets.
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the flavors.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Elevate the savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
Variations for Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups
One of the best things about Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups is how adaptable they are. Feel free to tune the recipe to suit your pantry contents, dietary preferences, or even your mood on any given day.
- Swap proteins: Use cooked turkey, ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for variety.
- Cheese options: Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
- Vegetarian twist: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
- Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for a fresh taste.
- Gluten-free dough: Use gluten-free crescent rolls or puff pastry for dietary needs.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
Start by chopping fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Lightly steam them for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender; drain well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until fully combined into a creamy, delicious mixture.
Step 3: Prepare Crescent Cups
Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface and separate the pre-cut triangles. Press each triangle gently into a muffin tin cup, stretching slightly to cover the bottom and sides, forming a little cup ready to hold the filling.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Spoon the chicken and broccoli filling evenly into each dough cup, filling about to the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until crescent cups are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan so they set nicely and no filling spills out. Serve warm for the best experience.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups
- Drain broccoli thoroughly: Excess water makes filling soggy, so ensure broccoli is well drained after steaming.
- Use sharp cheese: Sharp cheddar adds extra flavor, so don’t hesitate to choose bold cheeses.
- Don’t overfill cups: Leave a little space to allow dough to expand and ensure even baking.
- Check oven temp: A consistent 375°F is key to golden, flaky crusts without burning.
- Let cool slightly: This prevents burning your mouth and helps cups hold their shape.
How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups
Garnishes
Top your crescent cups with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika to add a pop of color and an extra hint of flavor that makes presentation irresistible.
Side Dishes
Serve these savory cups alongside a crisp green salad or a light tomato soup for a well-rounded meal that balances richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Place Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups on a decorative platter lined with lettuce leaves for a festive touch and easy grab-and-go appeal at parties or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover crescent cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to crisp up the dough again before serving.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze unbaked filled crescent cups on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until warmed through and crust is crispy; microwaving may make crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked chicken instead of canned chicken?
Absolutely! Fresh cooked or leftover chicken works wonderfully; just be sure to shred it finely to blend well with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives to make Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or peas are great additions that boost both nutrition and flavor.
How do I prevent the crescent dough from sticking to the muffin tin?
Lightly grease the muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray before placing the dough to ensure easy removal after baking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover crescent cups without drying them out?
Reheating in the oven wrapped loosely with foil helps retain moisture, keeping the filling creamy and the crust crisp.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups are truly a trusty go-to recipe that balances convenience, flavor, and wholesome ingredients beautifully. Whether you are feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, this easy recipe will keep everyone coming back for more. Grab those crescent rolls and start baking – your new favorite quick meal awaits!
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Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent cups 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Broccoli Crescent Cups are a quick, savory, and family-friendly dish featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh steamed broccoli, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or as an appetizer, these crescent cups offer a comforting and nutritious meal that pleases both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (12.5 oz) shredded canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough (or gluten-free crescent dough)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Broccoli: Chop fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Lightly steam them for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender; drain well to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Combine the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined into a creamy, delicious mixture.
- Prepare Crescent Cups: Unroll the crescent dough onto a clean surface and separate the pre-cut triangles. Press each triangle gently into a muffin tin cup, stretching slightly to cover the bottom and sides, forming a little cup ready to hold the filling.
- Fill and Bake: Spoon the chicken and broccoli filling evenly into each dough cup, filling about to the top but leaving some space for dough expansion. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until crescent cups are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan so they set nicely and no filling spills out. Serve warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Drain broccoli thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the filling.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
- Do not overfill the crescent cups to allow dough to expand and bake evenly.
- Maintain a consistent oven temperature of 375°F to achieve golden, flaky crusts without burning.
- Let the crescent cups cool slightly before serving to avoid burns and help maintain their shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crescent cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg