Name: Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Cups Shredded Chicken (see recipe below); 1 8oz Cream Cheese, softened; 2 tablespoon Butter, softened; 2 tablespoon Milk; 1 bunch Green Onions, diced; ¼ cup Bell Pepper, chopped and diced; ½ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Pepper; 2 Pop Cans Croissants (8 croissants per can); 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and simply irresistible snack or appetizer, these Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants are absolutely going to steal your heart. Imagine flaky, buttery croissant dough wrapped around a rich, creamy filling of tender shredded chicken, smooth cream cheese, and fresh green onions with just the right hint of bell pepper crunch. It’s the perfect combination of savory flavors and a luscious texture that feels straight out of your favorite bakery but made right in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants will become your go-to for gatherings, cozy nights, or whenever you crave something special yet easy to whip up.

Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this recipe shows you don’t need a long list to create something spectacular. Each component adds a unique layer of flavor and texture, ensuring your croissants are bursting with deliciousness from every bite.

2 Cups Shredded Chicken: Tender and flavorful, this is the hearty base of your filling that makes these croissants truly satisfying.
2 Pop Cans Croissants: These buttery, flaky croissants are the perfect vessel to hold the creamy chicken filling and give that irresistible crunch.
1 8oz Cream Cheese (softened): Adds a smooth, rich creaminess that ties the chicken and veggies together beautifully.
1 bunch Green Onions: Fresh and vibrant, they add a subtle sharpness and color that brighten up the filling.
¼ cup Bell Pepper (chopped and diced): Adds a gentle crunch and a hint of sweetness to complement the cream cheese and chicken.
½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering anything.
¼ teaspoon Pepper: Gives a touch of warmth and balance to the filling.
2 Tablespoons Butter (softened): Blended with cream cheese, it enriches the filling and keeps it luxuriously creamy.
2 Tablespoons Milk: Helps give the filling just enough moisture and smooth consistency.
1 Egg (optional): Creates a beautiful golden glaze on top for a stunning finish.

How to Make Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it reaches the perfect baking temperature by the time you assemble your croissants. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with the softened butter until they come together smoothly. Adding milk will make the mix creamy; don’t worry if it’s slightly chunky if your cream cheese isn’t fully softened—it will still taste fantastic! Next, fold in the shredded chicken, diced green onions, chopped bell pepper, salt, and pepper for a perfectly balanced filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissants for Filling

Grab those two cans of canned croissants and unroll one tube onto a cutting board. Since the croissants come pre-cut, gently press the cut lines back together to form four larger rectangular sections. This makes it easier to evenly distribute the filling and wrap them up tight.

Step 3: Fill and Seal the Croissants

Carefully spoon about a quarter-cup of the chicken and cream cheese mixture onto the center of each croissant rectangle. Then, bring all the corners together and pinch firmly to seal, making sure no filling can escape while baking. This step is key to ensure your Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants keep that creamy filling inside every bite.

Step 4: Add the Egg Wash

If you want that gorgeous, shiny golden finish, beat an egg in a small bowl and gently brush it over the tops of each filled croissant. This step is optional but highly recommended for presentation that wows.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your filled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the croissants are puffed up and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving—they’ll be piping hot and melty inside!

How to Serve Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top really lifts the appearance and adds a fresh color contrast. You could also serve alongside a dusting of paprika or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little kick.

Side Dishes

These croissants pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a light soup for a well-rounded meal. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, slice each croissant in half and serve on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Or offer a variety of dipping sauces, like honey mustard or a smoky aioli, so everyone can customize their bites. You might also line a basket with colorful napkins and arrange croissants in a rustic, inviting display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavor and texture surprisingly well, making for easy next-day snacks or lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze these croissants before baking by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the croissants on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and the croissant is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of making shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred it up and use as the recipe directs.

What if I don’t have canned croissants on hand?

You could use puff pastry as a substitute, although the texture will be slightly different. If you feel adventurous, homemade croissant dough would make this dish extra special but is more time-intensive.

Can I add extra cheese to the filling?

Yes! Mixing in shredded Parmesan or cheddar can add a delicious sharpness and extra gooeyness to the filling. Just about half a cup should do the trick.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap chicken for cooked mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite sautéed veggies, and the cream cheese filling still makes for a rich and satisfying croissant treat.

What is the best way to shred chicken quickly?

Using two forks to pull apart warm, cooked chicken is the classic and easiest method. Some people also find using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment helps shred chicken quickly and evenly.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants are one of those magical recipes that feel like a special treat but come together with minimal effort. Soft, flaky dough hugging a dreamy filling of creamy chicken and fresh veggies makes each bite unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try making these croissants at home and share them with friends and family—you’ll soon discover they’re a fast favorite everyone asks for again and again.

Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 24 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 croissants 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Delicious and creamy Chicken Cream Cheese Croissants filled with shredded chicken, cream cheese, fresh vegetables, and baked to golden perfection. Ideal as a savory snack, appetizer, or light meal that combines flaky croissants with a rich and flavorful filling.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the croissants.
Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the milk and mix well; the mixture may be slightly chunky if the cream cheese is not fully softened, which is fine. Stir in the shredded chicken, green onions, diced bell pepper, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Prepare Croissants: On a clean cutting board, unroll one tube of croissants. Press the perforated edges together to form 4 rectangular sections from the 8 crescent rolls.
Fill Croissants: Spoon approximately ¼ cup of the chicken and cream cheese filling onto the center of each rectangle. Fold the corners toward the center and pinch firmly to seal the filling inside.
Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each filled croissant with the beaten egg. This step is optional but recommended for a beautiful golden finish.
Bake: Place the filled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the croissants are puffed up and golden brown.
Serve: Remove the croissants from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
How to Make Shredded Chicken: Place 1 cup water or chicken broth in the bottom of an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Add 2 chicken breasts on a trivet inside the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Secure the lid and ensure the pressure valve is closed. Cook on High pressure for 18 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 20 minutes. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Use immediately or freeze for later use.

Notes

Customize the filling by adding ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Add ⅓ cup bacon bits for a smoky and savory twist.
Egg wash is optional but helps achieve a shiny, golden crust on the croissants.
Shredded chicken can be prepared ahead and frozen to save time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American