Chicken Bundles

Introduction

The first time I made Chicken Bundles, my family was drawn to the aroma wafting from the kitchen. As I pulled them out of the oven, their golden-brown, flaky exterior was simply irresistible. The combination of creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in crescent rolls made for a comforting dish that everyone raved about. It quickly became a favorite, whether served as a main dish or a delightful appetizer at gatherings. The joy of watching my family dig into these warm bundles with smiles on their faces is what keeps me making this recipe time and time again. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, these Chicken Bundles are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Assemble the Bundles
Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each triangle, then fold the corners up over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a small bundle.

Brush with Butter and Add Topping
Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with bread crumbs if desired.

Bake
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve
Serve warm, either as a main dish or as a tasty appetizer!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 bundles
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 16g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 10g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a comforting main dish.
• Cut into smaller portions for a delicious appetizer at parties.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Provide dipping sauces like ranch or buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
• Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

1. Make It Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the bundles just before baking for a quick meal.
2. Add Vegetables: Mix in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add more nutrition and flavor.
3. Use Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
4. Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding spices like cumin, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture.
5. Serve with Sides: Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or a vegetable medley for a satisfying meal.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Bundles: Mix in buffalo sauce with the chicken filling for a spicy twist.
• Italian Chicken Bundles: Use Italian seasoning and add sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella cheese for an Italian flair.
• BBQ Chicken Bundles: Substitute barbecue sauce for the cream cheese for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables and cheese for a meatless version.
• Breakfast Bundles: Use scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or bacon for a hearty breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed greens dressed with vinaigrette for a light meal.
• Accompany with a hearty soup, like tomato basil or chicken noodle, for a comforting combo.
• Include a variety of dips, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara sauce, for guests to enjoy.
• For special occasions, serve alongside a glass of sparkling cider or a light white wine.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Chicken Bundles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled but uncooked bundles. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
2. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
   Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative.
3. Can I make these bundles gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free crescent roll dough available in stores.
4. How do I know when the bundles are done?
   They should be golden brown on top and cooked through. The filling should be hot.
5. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese for extra creaminess.
6. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
7. What dipping sauces go well with these bundles?
   Ranch, buffalo sauce, or marinara sauce are all great options.
8. Can I use other meats?
   Yes, shredded turkey or even ham can be used instead of chicken.
9. How long does it take to cook from frozen?
   Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
10. Are these bundles suitable for kids?
    Yes! They are a fun and delicious option that kids usually love.

Conclusion

Chicken Bundles are a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in flaky crescent rolls. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be enjoyed for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to make them suit any occasion or taste preference. Whether for a family dinner, a party, or a cozy night in, these Chicken Bundles are sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. Give them a try, and watch as they disappear from the plate!

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