Welcome to a culinary journey that promises both simplicity and satisfaction: Chicken Bundles! Imagine a dish so irresistibly delicious, yet so remarkably easy to prepare, it effortlessly fits into even the busiest weeknight schedule. Our Chicken Bundles are a delightful fusion of tender, seasoned, creamy chicken filling, lovingly encased in golden, flaky crescent roll dough. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings smiles to faces around the dinner table, clocking in at an impressive 40 minutes from start to finish.
Effortless Elegance: Your New Go-To Family Dinner
In the quest for convenient, yet wholesome family meals, Chicken Bundles emerge as a clear winner. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and utterly delicious creation that appeals to all ages. The secret lies in a perfectly seasoned, rich, and creamy chicken mixture, nestled within individual pockets of your favorite store-bought crescent dough. The “bundle” concept is not only incredibly fun for kids (and adults!), but it also ensures a perfectly portioned, handheld delight that’s easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. While these bundles make a fantastic addition to your weekly rotation any time of year, their warm, comforting essence truly shines during the cozy winter months, offering a hug in every bite.
Your Questions Answered: Mastering Chicken Bundles
We understand that a great recipe isn’t just about the steps, but also about the flexibility and insights that allow you to make it truly your own. Here are some of the most common questions we receive about these delightful Chicken Bundles, designed to empower your culinary creativity and ensure perfect results every time.
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to introduce more nutrients and evoke a comforting chicken pot pie flavor. If you choose to do so, we recommend reducing the amount of shredded chicken slightly to accommodate the added volume. Frozen mixed vegetables, such as corn, green beans, or a classic peas and carrots blend, work wonderfully and are convenient. You could even sauté some finely diced fresh onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms before mixing them in for an extra layer of flavor. While we often serve vegetables on the side, incorporating them directly into the filling is a popular choice. Start with about half a cup to one cup of frozen vegetables, thawed and drained, and adjust to your preference. Remember, the goal is a well-balanced filling that doesn’t overwhelm the crescent dough.
The beauty of Chicken Bundles lies in their adaptability! Beyond our suggested garlic and onion powder, a world of flavor awaits. For a zesty kick, try lemon pepper. Craving something smoky and bold? Blackening seasoning or Creole seasoning can transform the dish. Poultry seasoning offers a classic, aromatic depth, while Old Bay seasoning provides a unique savory blend. If you opt for these pre-mixed seasonings, remember to significantly reduce or even omit the additional salt, as these blends typically contain sodium. For those who appreciate fresh herbs, consider swapping dried parsley for a tablespoon or two of finely chopped fresh Italian parsley, tarragon, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or sage. These fresh additions will infuse a vibrant aroma and taste. Experimentation is encouraged, but always taste your filling before stuffing to ensure the seasoning is just right for your palate.
Yes, this recipe is incredibly forgiving when it comes to the type of chicken used. It’s an excellent way to utilize any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand, whether it’s baked, boiled, grilled, or pan-fried. Simply cut it into small, bite-sized pieces or shred it thoroughly, as we do with a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken. The key is to have fully cooked chicken that can easily blend into the creamy filling. This dish also shines brightly as a creative way to repurpose holiday leftovers. Transform your Thanksgiving turkey into these savory bundles for a delightful twist that everyone will rave about. The possibilities are truly endless, making this recipe a fantastic choice for minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.
Certainly! While cream of chicken soup provides a classic, comforting base, you can explore other cream soups to alter the flavor profile. Cream of cheddar soup will add a cheesy richness, while cream of mushroom soup lends an earthy depth. Cream of celery soup offers a more subtle, herbaceous note. Each option will bring a distinct character to your Chicken Bundles. For those who prefer a homemade touch or wish to avoid canned soups, we also have a fantastic homemade cream of chicken soup recipe that integrates seamlessly into this dish. This allows for greater control over ingredients and sodium levels. Unfortunately, if you’re looking to avoid cream soups entirely and not make a homemade version, there isn’t a direct substitution that maintains the same creamy texture and binding properties for this particular recipe.
Proper storage and reheating ensure your Chicken Bundles remain delicious for days. Once cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, these bundles freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating in the oven is ideal for restoring their crispy exterior and warm, gooey interior. Simply place frozen bundles on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden. Refrigerated bundles can be reheated in the oven for 10-15 minutes or quickly warmed in the microwave until hot. Be mindful that microwave reheating may soften the crescent roll texture slightly.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Bundles
Crafting these delectable Chicken Bundles requires a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that perfect creamy, savory flavor and flaky texture. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with helpful tips for each component.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken: The star of our filling! For ultimate convenience and speed, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend. Its pre-cooked, flavorful meat shreds beautifully and makes preparation a breeze. If you prefer, you can certainly bake, boil, or pan-fry your own chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring you have approximately 3 cups of shredded chicken. This is also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken from previous meals, embracing efficiency in your kitchen.
- Block Cream Cheese: This is what gives our filling its signature creamy, rich texture. It’s crucial that the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures it combines smoothly with the other ingredients, preventing lumps and creating a homogenous filling. We have specifically developed and tested this recipe with block cream cheese, and as such, cannot confidently recommend alternative substitutions. Its unique consistency is integral to the bundle’s success.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: The base of our savory, comforting sauce. This ingredient contributes significantly to the creamy texture and depth of flavor. As mentioned in our FAQs, you have room to experiment here! Try cream of onion, cream of mushroom, or even cream of bacon soup for interesting flavor variations. Each will impart a different nuance to the dish, allowing for personalized customization. For those who prefer a homemade touch or want to control ingredients more closely, our Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is an excellent alternative.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Added in a small quantity, Parmesan cheese provides a subtle hint of salty, umami flavor that elevates the chicken filling without overpowering it. Unlike some other cheeses, Parmesan doesn’t make the filling excessively gooey, maintaining a pleasant consistency. If you wish to experiment, a small amount (no more than 1/4 cup) of other shredded cheeses, like cheddar or mozzarella, could be used. Keep in mind that these might create a thicker, gooier filling.
- Dried Parsley Flakes: Primarily used for visual appeal, adding a touch of vibrant green color to the creamy filling. While it contributes a very mild herbaceous note, it is not essential for the core flavor of the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit if you prefer.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These pantry staples are crucial for building a foundational layer of aromatic flavor in our chicken filling. They provide a balanced, savory depth without the moisture or texture of fresh garlic and onion. Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions section above for inspiration on other exciting seasoning ideas you might want to incorporate into your bundles.
- Crescent Roll Dough: The magic wrapper for our delicious filling! Canned crescent roll dough makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy. If you can find the crescent roll dough sheets, they are ideal as they eliminate the need to pinch seams. Otherwise, you’ll simply unroll the standard crescent rolls and carefully pinch two triangles together to form nine seamless rectangles, creating the perfect canvas for your bundles.
- Unsalted Butter: Brushed over the crescent rolls before baking, the melted butter is key to achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and irresistible flaky, slightly crisp exterior. We specify unsalted butter to give you full control over the salt content in the dish, especially since salt is already present in the cream of chicken soup and as a seasoning. If you only have salted butter on hand, feel free to use it, but be sure to slightly reduce the amount of kosher salt added to the filling to maintain balance.
Crafting Your Delightful Chicken Bundles: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these creamy chicken-filled delights is surprisingly straightforward, guaranteeing a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to bring your Chicken Bundles to life.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large sheet tray by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This will prevent your bundles from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Set the prepared tray aside.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the creamy chicken filling: the shredded cooked chicken, softened block cream cheese, entire can of cream of chicken soup, grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley flakes, black pepper, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth and uniform. For the quickest and most efficient mixing, an electric hand mixer works wonders, ensuring everything is perfectly incorporated.
- Next, prepare your crescent roll dough. Open the cans and unroll the dough. If you are using standard crescent rolls (triangles), take two triangles and firmly pinch their longest sides together to form a seamless rectangle. Repeat this process for all the dough to create nine uniform rectangles. Carefully place these rectangles onto your prepared sheet tray, ensuring there’s a little space between each.
- Now it’s time to fill your bundles! Take approximately a heaping 1/4 cup of the delicious chicken mixture and place it directly in the center of each crescent roll rectangle. Distribute the filling evenly among all the dough pieces.
- To form the bundles, gently pull up the four corners of each crescent roll rectangle, bringing them together over the chicken filling. Pinch the seams firmly to seal the filling inside, creating a neat, enclosed bundle. Ensure all edges are tightly sealed to prevent any delicious filling from escaping during baking.
- Melt the unsalted butter and, using a pastry brush, generously brush it all over the tops of each chicken bundle. This step is key to achieving that desirable golden-brown color and a beautifully crisp exterior.
- Transfer the sheet tray to your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to ensure they don’t over-brown.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the Chicken Bundles from the oven. For an extra touch of color and freshness, you can sprinkle a little more dried parsley on top, if desired. Serve these comforting bundles immediately while they are warm and the filling is wonderfully creamy. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Adore These Chicken Bundles
These isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a culinary revelation that simplifies mealtime without compromising on taste. Here’s why Chicken Bundles are destined to become a staple in your home:
- Unbeatable Convenience: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, you can have a hot, homemade meal on the table in about 40 minutes. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: The individual, handheld bundles are inherently fun and appealing to both children and adults. The creamy, savory filling is universally loved, making it an easy way to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
- Incredibly Versatile: From swapping out the type of cooked chicken to experimenting with different cream soups and seasonings, this recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. It’s perfect for utilizing leftovers or adapting to various dietary preferences (within limits).
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something inherently comforting about warm, flaky pastry wrapped around a rich, creamy filling. These bundles deliver that cozy, satisfying feeling, especially on cooler evenings.
- Budget-Conscious: By using readily available ingredients and being highly adaptable for leftover chicken or turkey, this recipe is also kind to your wallet, making delicious meals accessible without breaking the bank.
Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Meal
To make your Chicken Bundles a complete and balanced meal, consider pairing them with some simple yet delicious side dishes:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich bundles.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add a touch of color and nutrition.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes provide a hearty and flavorful accompaniment.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fluffy rice pilaf can soak up any delicious creamy filling that escapes the bundles.
CRAVING MORE DELICIOUS RECIPES?
If you love the ease and comfort of these Chicken Bundles, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delightful recipes that promise flavor and simplicity:
- Mini Chicken Pot Pies
- French Dip Crescent Puffs
- Chicken Cobbler
- Chicken Wellingtons
- Ground Beef Wellingtons
- Chicken a la King
- No Peek Chicken Casserole
- Poppy Seed Chicken
- Swiss Chicken Casserole
- Chicken and Biscuits Casserole
- King Ranch Chicken Casserole
- Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Bundles
- Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
- 30 Chicken Breast Recipes
Chicken Bundles Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (I used a rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cans crescent roll dough
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large sheet tray with cooking spray and set aside.
- Place the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, can of chicken soup, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, black pepper, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder into a large bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined. An electric hand mixer works best for a smooth filling.
- Open the cans of crescent roll dough. If using standard crescent rolls, take two rolls and firmly pinch the seams together to form a rectangle. Repeat to create nine rectangles. Place these on the prepared sheet tray.
- Add about a heaping 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture to the center of each crescent roll rectangle.
- Pull up the four corners of the crescent rolls over the filling and firmly pinch them together along all seams. Ensure they are sealed tightly to contain the filling.
- Brush the melted butter generously all over the tops of the rolls. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bundles are beautifully golden brown.
- If desired, sprinkle a little more dried parsley on top for garnish. Serve your delicious Chicken Bundles immediately and enjoy!
Video Tutorial
Chef’s Notes & Customization Tips
- For comprehensive details on ingredient substitutions and common questions, please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and ingredient list sections above.
- To enhance nutritional value, consider adding 1/2 to 1 cup of frozen vegetables (such as corn, green beans, peas, or a peas and carrots blend) to the filling. You may wish to slightly reduce the chicken quantity to accommodate. A touch of chopped green onion also makes a great addition.
- Experiment with seasonings beyond garlic and onion powder. Blackening, Creole, lemon pepper, poultry, or Old Bay seasonings can significantly alter the flavor. Remember to reduce added salt when using pre-mixed blends, as they often contain sodium.
- If cream of chicken soup isn’t your preference, alternatives like cream of cheddar, mushroom, or celery soup work well, each offering a distinct flavor. Our homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is another excellent option for those desiring more control over ingredients.
- Store leftover bundles in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best texture (around 350°F until warm), or use the microwave for a quicker option, though the crust may soften.
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.