If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious, the Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These bite-sized delights combine crispy popcorn chicken wrapped in buttery crescent rolls, all smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze topped with a delightful sprinkle of poppy seeds. Perfect for game days, parties, or a flavorful weeknight snack, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal effort and maximum impact.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and come together in harmony to create that irresistible sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role, from the flaky crescent rolls adding buttery layers, to the glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
- Refrigerated crescent rolls (8-oz tube): This forms the bulk of the dough wrapping the chicken, delivering a soft, flaky texture.
- Refrigerated crescent rolls (4-oz tube): Using two sizes ensures you have just the right amount of dough to make all 36 minis perfectly sized.
- Frozen popcorn chicken (36 pieces): Quick and easy protein, adds crispy chicken bites inside each roll.
- Butter (½ cup): Melts into the glaze, providing richness and helping everything brown beautifully.
- Brown sugar (2 Tbsp): Sweetens and caramelizes the glaze for that signature sticky, glossy finish.
- Dijon mustard (1 Tbsp): Adds bright, tangy depth balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 Tbsp): Brings umami savoriness that elevates the flavor complexity.
- Poppy seeds (1 Tbsp): Adds a subtle crunch and nutty flavor while making each mini extra visually appealing.
How to Make Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start with preheating your oven to 375ºF to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray, which will keep your Glazed Chicken Minis from sticking and help with easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Shape the Crescent Roll Dough
Unroll both cans of crescent rolls, then separate the dough into 12 triangles each. Take each triangle and cut it lengthwise into three narrow triangles — this size is perfect for wrapping around each popcorn chicken piece without overwhelming it. The dough will bake into golden, flaky pockets that perfectly complement the crispy chicken inside.
Step 3: Wrap the Chicken
Place one piece of frozen popcorn chicken on the wide end of each narrow triangle of dough. Roll it up carefully toward the point, sealing the dough around the chicken. Arrange each mini roll seam-side down in your prepared pan. This rolling technique keeps the chicken snug inside, ensuring every bite gets you a perfect chicken-to-dough ratio.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to meld the flavors and dissolve the sugar fully. This luscious glaze is the magic that transforms these minis into a sticky, flavorful treat.
Step 5: Glaze and Bake
Pour the hot glaze evenly over the arranged chicken minis in the pan. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crescent rolls turn a beautiful golden brown and the glaze has thickened and caramelized slightly. The aroma at this point is irresistibly inviting, promising a warm, savory bite with a hint of sweetness in every morsel.
How to Serve Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich glaze. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking can also boost the flavor balance and make the minis even more addictive.
Side Dishes
These minis pair beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides to balance their richness. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, crunchy coleslaw, or even roasted seasonal vegetables make excellent companions on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe on a large wooden board or platter for a casual, shareable vibe. Add small bowls of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo for guests to customize their experience. They also make fantastic finger foods for holiday parties or potlucks, drawing everyone around the table and sparking conversations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this irresistible recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days, making a quick snack or meal option easily accessible during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked Glazed Chicken Minis by assembling them as directed, then placing the pan tightly covered in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with glazing and baking as usual. This is a lifesaver for prepping ahead for parties or busy days.
Reheating
Reheat your minis in the oven at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the crescent roll is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough soggy instead of flaky and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen popcorn chicken?
Using fresh chicken means extra prep time to cook and season it before assembly. Frozen popcorn chicken provides convenience with its crispy texture and flavor, making this recipe incredibly quick and foolproof, but feel free to experiment if you prefer fresh.
Are these minis suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Kids love finger foods, especially ones that combine chicken and crescent rolls. The glaze adds sweetness and flavor that appeals to all ages, making these a perfect party or snack option for children.
Can I make these gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the crescent rolls with gluten-free dough that will bake similarly. Just ensure your popcorn chicken is also gluten-free to keep the dish safe and enjoyable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What other seeds can I use instead of poppy seeds?
If you’re not a fan of poppy seeds, sesame seeds make a great alternative, offering a nutty crunch and a visual contrast. Just sprinkle them in the glaze mixture as you would the poppy seeds.
Is the glaze very sweet?
The glaze balances sweetness from brown sugar with tangy Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce to keep it flavorful without being overwhelming. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy that complements the chicken and dough beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe that makes it a guaranteed hit wherever it’s served. The combination of sweet, tangy glaze with tender chicken wrapped in flaky crescent rolls feels like a warm hug in food form. Whether you’re serving them up for a big gathering or indulging in a cozy night snack, these minis are sure to bring smiles and happy tummies. Give this recipe a try, and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Glazed Chicken Minis with Crescent Rolls and Poppy Seeds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 36 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Glazed Chicken Minis are a delicious party appetizer featuring crispy popcorn chicken wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough, then coated with a sweet and tangy buttery glaze with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. Baked until golden and bubbly, these bite-sized treats are perfect for gatherings, game days, or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
Chicken Wraps
- 1 (8-oz) tube refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (4-oz) tube refrigerated crescent rolls
- 36 pieces frozen popcorn chicken
Glaze
- ½ cup butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Crescent Rolls: Unroll both cans of crescent rolls and separate into 12 triangles each. Then cut each triangle lengthwise into 3 narrow triangles, creating smaller pieces of dough.
- Assemble Chicken Minis: Place one frozen popcorn chicken piece on the wide end of each narrow triangle. Roll the dough around the chicken piece tightly and place each rolled mini into the prepared baking pan, seam side down.
- Make Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and poppy seeds. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to blend all ingredients smoothly.
- Glaze Chicken Minis: Pour the hot glaze evenly over all the crescent-wrapped chicken pieces in the baking pan, ensuring each mini is coated well.
- Bake: Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the glaze is bubbly.
Notes
- Use frozen popcorn chicken to save time—no need to thaw before assembling.
- For extra crispiness, rotate the baking pan halfway through cooking.
- The glaze is sweet and tangy; adjust the mustard or brown sugar to your taste preference.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
- These minis can be kept warm wrapped in foil for up to 30 minutes before serving.
