These Chicken Parmesan Crescent Cups are a comforting, family-friendly dish that delivers classic Italian-American flavors in a fun, handheld form. Crispy chicken, rich marinara, and melted mozzarella are tucked into buttery crescent dough cups and baked until golden. They’re quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even lunchbox treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These crescent cups are simple yet impressive, making them ideal for both everyday meals and entertaining. They come together quickly with minimal prep and use familiar ingredients that most families already enjoy. The individual portions make serving easy, and kids love the cheesy, savory filling. Best of all, they offer all the flavor of chicken Parmesan without the fuss of breading, frying, or lengthy cleanup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crescent roll dough sheet – 1 standard can (8-ounce / 226 g)
Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups (about 170 g), divided
Fully cooked fried chicken tenders – 3 tenders (about 9 ounces / 255 g total)
Marinara sauce – ½ cup (120 ml), plus extra for dipping if desired
Fresh parsley, finely chopped – 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)
Nonstick cooking spray – for greasing the muffin tin
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat 8 cups of a standard muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray, making sure to cover the sides and bottoms well.
Unroll the crescent roll dough sheet onto a clean work surface. Press any seams together if needed, then cut the dough into 8 equal squares.
Gently press one square of dough into each prepared muffin cup, shaping it to fit the bottom and sides without tearing.
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella evenly among the dough cups, creating a cheese layer at the base.
Cut the cooked chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. Dip each piece into the marinara sauce to coat lightly, then place the chicken evenly into the dough cups on top of the cheese. Spoon any remaining marinara over the chicken.
Top each cup with the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Fold the corners of the dough slightly inward over the filling, forming a loose cup. Do not seal completely; the filling should still be visible.
Bake for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let the cups cool in the pan for 2 minutes before carefully lifting them out. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
For a different flavor profile, substitute the marinara sauce with a thick Alfredo-style sauce or a basil-forward tomato sauce. You can also use shredded provolone or a mozzarella–cheddar blend for a slightly sharper taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use baked breaded chicken instead of fried tenders. Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan-style cheese on top before baking can enhance the savory depth without overpowering the dish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover chicken Parmesan crescent cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. A toaster oven works especially well. Microwaving is possible for 30 to 45 seconds per cup, but the dough will be softer.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of fried tenders?
Yes, any fully cooked chicken works well. Chop it into small pieces and proceed as directed. For best flavor, lightly season the chicken before adding it to the cups.
Do I have to use crescent dough sheets?
Crescent dough sheets are easiest, but regular crescent rolls can be pressed together to form a sheet if needed.
Can these be made ahead of time?
You can assemble the cups up to 6 hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they are very kid-friendly. The individual portions and cheesy filling make them appealing to picky eaters.
Can I freeze chicken Parmesan crescent cups?
They can be frozen after baking. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until hot.
What dipping sauces go well with these cups?
Extra marinara is a classic choice, but a creamy garlic sauce or mild ranch-style dip also pairs nicely.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Use a thick marinara sauce and avoid adding too much liquid. Also, make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added in small amounts without affecting texture.
Are these better as an appetizer or a main dish?
They work well as either. Serve with a salad for a complete meal or alone as a hearty appetizer.
What size muffin tin should I use?
A standard 12-cup muffin tin is ideal. This recipe uses 8 of the cups.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan Crescent Cups are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy familiar flavors in a creative format. With their golden crust, melty cheese, and savory chicken filling, they’re sure to become a regular request at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
These handheld Chicken Parmesan Crescent Cups are filled with saucy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and buttery crescent dough. Quick, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners, snacks, or party appetizers.
