Name: Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped cooked chicken; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 (8-oz) can refrigerated crescent rolls (8 triangles); 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup; ½ cup milk; 2 tsp poppy seeds; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; Cooking spray, for greasing the pan

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 81 reviews

If you are looking for a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious dish, then this Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe is an absolute must-try. Soft crescent rolls enfold a savory blend of tender chicken, cream cheese, and cheddar, all baked to golden perfection and topped with a luscious poppy seed sauce that adds just the right touch of tang and texture. Each bite delivers layers of flavor and warmth that feel like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s simple to make but so impressive on the table, whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is the secret to making this Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe effortlessly delicious. Each component has a role: from creamy cheeses that add richness, to the poppy seeds bringing that slight crunch and subtle nuttiness, to the crescent rolls that create the perfect golden vessel for this flavorful filling.

2 cups chopped cooked chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie for quick prep and juicy texture.
4 oz cream cheese (softened): This adds creamy smoothness that binds the filling together beautifully.
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp and melty, cheddar brings a bright flavor and gooey comfort.
1 (8-oz) can refrigerated crescent rolls: These are your golden, flaky wraps that turn perfectly tender when baked.
1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Creamy and savory, it makes the topping sauce irresistibly rich.
½ cup milk: Lightens the sauce and helps everything meld together smoothly.
2 tsp poppy seeds: Adds a delightful crunch and subtle nutty flavor that sets this recipe apart.

How to Make Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Getting this ready upfront ensures a smooth workflow once your roll-ups are assembled.

Step 2: Mix the Filling and Shape the Roll-Ups

In a bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—the heart of your roll-ups. Next, carefully separate the crescent roll dough into 8 triangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle, then roll them up snugly and place them seam side down in your prepared pan. These will puff up beautifully as they bake, holding all those delicious ingredients inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce and Pour Over Rolls

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese, and the magic ingredient—poppy seeds. This luscious sauce will be poured over the roll-ups, creating a creamy topping that bubbles and browns in the oven, marrying all the flavors into one unforgettable dish.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Bake the dish uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops of the roll-ups have turned a gorgeous golden brown. As it bakes, the crescent dough softens and mingles perfectly with the creamy filling and sauce, making each bite rich but light in texture.

How to Serve Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving. A little cracked black pepper can also enhance the creamy notes beautifully. These simple touches lift the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair your roll-ups with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add vibrant color and a healthy crunch. For a hearty meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf complement this dish wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe into a delightful appetizer by cutting each roll-up into bite-sized pieces and serving with small skewers. For a casual dinner, plate them alongside your favorite sides with a drizzle of extra sauce from the pan. You can even sprinkle more poppy seeds on top right before serving to highlight their unique texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover roll-ups to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay good for up to 3 days while maintaining their creamy, comforting flavor and texture, making for an easy next-day meal or snack.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, assemble the roll-ups but do not bake. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding additional cooking time as needed until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the sauce is bubbling again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the crescent dough from becoming soggy—you want that lovely flaky texture to stay intact.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe as it’s already cooked and full of flavor, saving you prep time while adding a juicy texture.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer a homemade touch, a simple cream sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth can replace the canned soup. This keeps the dish wholesome but just as creamy and delicious.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping out the crescent rolls for a gluten-free brand or using gluten-free puff pastry sheets, you can enjoy this recipe without gluten concerns. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Are poppy seeds really necessary?

While not absolutely essential, poppy seeds add a subtle crunch and a nutty undertone that elevates the dish. They make this Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe stand out and are highly recommended.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and creamy, perfect for all tastes including children. If you want a little kick, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting about the blend of creamy chicken, melty cheese, and flaky crescent dough in this Poppy Seed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for guests. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite to make again and again. So go ahead, give it a whirl and savor every warm, cheesy bite!