If you’re on the hunt for a snack or appetizer that’s irresistibly cheesy, packed with tender chicken, and wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry, then this Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Perfectly golden, delightfully savory, and surprisingly easy to whip up, these rolls bring together simple ingredients in a way that’s bursting with flavor and texture, promising a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is as easy as gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating those rich, savory rolls. From the creamy cheeses that add lusciousness to the tender chicken that provides hearty satisfaction, every element is thoughtfully chosen.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): Using cooked chicken breasts saves time and ensures juicy, tender bites inside each roll.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Offers that wonderful melty stretch and mild flavor we all love in cheesy dishes.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Adds a smooth, creamy texture that binds the filling beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a sharp, nutty punch that elevates the flavor profile.
- Small onion (1, finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and crunch to contrast the cheesy filling.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds an aromatic and savory depth that makes the flavor sing.
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp): Sprinkles in an herby freshness to keep every bite interesting.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) and black pepper (1/4 tsp): Essential to season and bring all the ingredients together harmoniously.
- Puff pastry sheet (1 sheet, or 2 for larger rolls): The golden, flaky carrier for all that delicious stuff inside.
- Egg (1, for egg wash) and milk (1 tbsp): Create a glossy, gorgeous finish on your pastry rolls.
How to Make Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by mixing together the shredded chicken, mozzarella, cream cheese, Parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. The combination of cheeses creates a creamy, melty filling, while the herbs and aromatics bring balance and zing. Blend it all well to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those pastry rolls from sticking and to make cleanup easier—trust me, this step is a lifesaver.
Step 3: Cut the Puff Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using one sheet, slice it into four equal squares. If you prefer more, smaller rolls, or have two sheets, cut them into six rectangles or squares. This gives you perfectly portioned parcels for that filling delight.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon a generous dollop of the chicken and cheese filling into the center of each pastry piece. Then fold the edges over carefully, crafting neat rolls by pinching to seal. You can choose triangles or rectangles to make each roll uniquely yours—either way, sealing well ensures the filling stays lovably tucked inside.
Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
Beat the egg with milk to make an egg wash, then brush it on top of each roll. This step gives the pastry its signature golden, glossy shine when baked, making your rolls look as amazing as they taste.
Step 6: Bake
Place the prepared rolls with enough space between them on the lined baking sheet, so they bake evenly and puff up beautifully. Pop them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are a stunning golden brown and irresistibly puffy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool just a bit—they’ll be piping hot—but don’t wait too long, because these Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe treats are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is melty and the pastry is at its flakiest.
How to Serve Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of grated Parmesan right before serving can brighten these rolls beautifully. For a fresh contrast, some lemon zest over the top works wonders, adding a zesty lift that pairs perfectly with the rich filling.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing these pastry rolls with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness, while the warmth of soup doubles down on the cozy vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the rolls on a wooden board or tiered platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a creamy garlic aioli. You can also slice larger rolls into bite-sized pinwheels, making them perfect finger foods that disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe items store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They make for a convenient, indulgent snack or quick lunch when reheated thoughtfully.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these rolls ahead of time, freeze them before baking by placing them on a tray, freezing until solid, and then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls on a baking sheet and heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes to regain crispiness and warm the filling through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor with minimal effort, making your Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe even easier to assemble.
What type of puff pastry is best?
Store-bought frozen puff pastry works wonderfully because it’s buttery and flaky. Just be sure to thaw it properly before working with it to get the best texture.
Can I customize the cheese blend?
Definitely! While mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan provide a great balance, you can switch in your favorite cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère to change the flavor profile.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers to make a delicious vegetarian alternative.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Using cream cheese helps bind moisture, but it’s also crucial not to overfill and to seal the edges well. Baking on parchment and serving soon after baking keeps your rolls flaky and crisp.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe creations are just pure happiness wrapped in pastry. Whether you’re serving a crowd or indulging in a cozy night in, their simple ingredients come together to make something truly special and unforgettable. Give this recipe a try—once you taste that melty cheese and tender chicken tucked inside golden, flaky pastry, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved favorite.
Print
Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chicken and Cheese Pastry Rolls are a deliciously savory snack or appetizer featuring a creamy filling of shredded chicken, mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan, wrapped in flaky puff pastry and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or a light meal, these rolls combine rich flavors with a buttery, crisp pastry exterior.
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 & Finish
- 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 the 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 on Baking Sheet: Place 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: Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or light meal, and enjoy the deliciously cheesy, savory flavor!
Notes
- For best results, use puff pastry that has been properly thawed according to package instructions.
- You can customize the herbs—basil or oregano would also complement the filling well.
- Make sure to seal the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Leftover rolls can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Vegetarian option: substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
