Description A delightful and comforting appetizer or snack featuring a rich and creamy chicken Alfredo filling wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. These savory bombs are packed with flavor, combining the richness of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and crispy bacon with tender shredded chicken, all seasoned with aromatic garlic powder and Italian herbs. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in, these little bundles of joy are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded (approximately 2 cups)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 package (8 count) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crescent rolls bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown color. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the bombs from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken breast using your preferred method. You can bake it, boil it, grill it, or even use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. This makes it easier to incorporate into the creamy filling.
Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Ensure the cream cheese is adequately softened to prevent lumps in the filling.
Step 4: Mix the Filling Thoroughly: Use a spatula or spoon to mix all the ingredients until they are well combined and evenly distributed. The mixture should be creamy and consistent. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform flavor in each bite. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings if desired.
Step 5: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Open the package of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough and separate it into individual triangles. Work on a clean, lightly floured surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
Step 6: Fill the Crescent Rolls: Place a generous spoonful (about 2 tablespoons) of the chicken and cheese mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Do not overfill, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
Step 7: Roll the Dough Around the Filling: Starting from the wide end, roll the dough around the filling towards the point of the triangle. Gently stretch the dough as you roll to ensure it completely covers the filling.
Step 8: Seal the Edges: Pinch the edges and ends of the crescent roll dough to seal. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking and helps the bombs maintain their shape.
Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled bombs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring even baking.
Step 10: Bake the Bombs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 11: Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bombs cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Creamy Bacon Chicken Alfredo Bombs with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them warm and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Creamy Bacon Chicken Alfredo Bombs are incredibly addictive for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy Alfredo flavors, savory bacon, and tender chicken creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. The garlic powder and Italian seasoning add an aromatic depth that elevates the dish to a new level.
- Texture Contrast: The flaky, buttery crescent roll dough provides a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy filling, making each bite a textural adventure.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The use of pre-made crescent roll dough saves time and effort, while the rest of the ingredients are easily accessible.
- Versatile: These bombs can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, game nights, or a cozy night in.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a good comfort food dish, and these Creamy Bacon Chicken Alfredo Bombs are guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.
- Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
- Offer a dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or extra Alfredo sauce.
- Arrange on a platter for parties or gatherings.
- Garnish with additional toppings like shredded Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or chopped green onions.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Do not overfill the crescent rolls to prevent leakage during baking.
- Pinch the edges and ends of the dough to seal the filling.
- Monitor the baking time to prevent burning.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Use different types of cheese to customize the flavor.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as spinach and artichoke, or ham and Swiss.
- If you don’t have crescent roll dough, use puff pastry for a similar result.
- Make ahead and freeze unbaked bombs for a quick and easy appetizer.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per bomb):
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Sodium: 300-400mg
Conclusion:
Creamy Bacon Chicken Alfredo Bombs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that is sure to impress. With their rich and creamy filling, flaky crescent roll dough, and customizable flavor options, these little bundles of joy are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a comforting weeknight treat, or simply want to satisfy your cravings, these bombs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
A: Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a delicious flavor to the filling. Simply shred the chicken and use it in place of cooked chicken breast.
Q2: What if I don’t have crescent roll dough? Can I use something else?
A: Yes, you can use puff pastry as a substitute for crescent roll dough. Puff pastry will create a flakier texture. You can also use pizza dough, but the texture will be chewier.
Q3: Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, you can! Prepare the bombs as instructed, but don’t bake them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the bombs. Some great options include spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the filling.
Q5: What dipping sauces go well with these bombs?
A: There are many dipping sauces that pair well with these bombs. Some popular choices include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, Alfredo sauce, garlic aioli, and honey mustard. You can also get creative and experiment with other sauces that you enjoy.
