There's nothing quite like the smell of crispy puff pastry baking in the oven, mingling with the enticing aroma of spicy buffalo sauce. After a long day, I craved a fun snack, and that’s when these Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups came to life in my kitchen. This recipe is the embodiment of comfort food—flaky, buttery pastry enveloping creamy chicken mixed with gooey mozzarella and sharp cheddar, all drizzled with zesty sauce.
They're perfect for any gathering, from game days to casual get-togethers, and the best part? You can whip them up in no time, even letting them sit in the fridge before baking. Whether you choose the traditional oven method or opt for the air fryer for a quicker, crispy result, these roll-ups are sure to impress. Trust me, they always vanish first from the table! So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Are Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups a Must-Try?
Crispy and Flaky: The puff pastry creates a light, airy texture that perfectly contrasts with the rich filling.
Flavor Explosion: Creamy cheeses blended with zesty buffalo sauce deliver a delightful taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble these roll-ups in advance, so you can focus on enjoying time with friends and family during your gathering.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients, like using barbecue sauce or different cheeses, to match your crowd's preferences.
Ideal Party Food: Whether for game day or a casual hangout, these roll-ups are guaranteed to be the star of the show.
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups Ingredients
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling; ensure it's at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Rotisserie Chicken – Provides shredded chicken, saving time on cooking; can substitute with cooked chicken breast for convenience.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes a mild flavor and gooey texture; use shredded or block cheese, but remember to shred the block.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a robust flavor contrast; substitute with mild cheddar for a less intense taste.
• Buffalo Sauce – Delivers the signature spicy flavor; adjust the quantity for preferred heat level.
For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry Sheet – Acts as a flaky outer layer; ensure it's fully thawed for easy handling.
• Egg (beaten) – Used for sealing the pastry edges and creating a golden brown finish.
For Serving (Optional)
• Ranch Dressing – A delightful drizzle for serving; blue cheese dressing is a classic buffalo pairing alternative.
• Parsley – Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
-
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This ensures lovely, golden-brown roll-ups.
-
Mix in a medium bowl: combine room temperature cream cheese, shredded rotisserie chicken, mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and buffalo sauce until well-blended. Set aside the mixture; the flavors will meld beautifully!
-
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to a rectangle measuring 9×12 inches. This gives the roll-ups their flaky exterior, so don’t skip this step!
-
Spread 2 cups of the chicken mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Remember to brush the border with beaten egg for a good seal!
-
Roll the pastry tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg. This will help your roll-ups achieve that golden color while baking, making them irresistible!
-
Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the roll-ups are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as it nears the end; you want them beautifully browned and flaky.
-
Remove from the oven, top each roll-up with a bit of the reserved chicken mixture, and bake again for an additional 6-8 minutes until heated through. This adds that ooey-gooey goodness!
Air Fryer Instructions: Assemble as directed and air fry at 325°F for 10-12 minutes, adding the reserved mixture halfway through for a flavorful finish.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of ranch dressing for added creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring you have a convenient appetizer ready to go. Simply prepare the filling, roll everything up tightly, and place them on your baking sheet, brushing the tops with egg. To maintain their delicious quality, cover the assembled roll-ups tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, you can pop them in the oven directly from the fridge, adding an extra couple of minutes to ensure they’re heated thoroughly. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of these tasty treats at your next gathering!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups?
Satisfy your craving for a complete meal with these delightful pairings that will elevate your appetizer experience!
-
Crispy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a crunchy contrast to the warm, gooey roll-ups. The tangy dressing enhances the zesty buffalo flavor.
-
Garlic Bread Sticks: Buttery and garlicky, these bread sticks are perfect for dipping into extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce, enhancing the overall indulgence.
-
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and crispness of these fries provide a delicious balance to the spiciness of the roll-ups. Plus, their vibrant color adds a fun touch to your table.
-
Vegetable Platter: A medley of fresh, crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers creates a colorful dipper for ranch or blue cheese dressing, adding a healthy remnant to the feast.
-
Spicy Queso Dip: This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for those who love a little extra kick. Serve with tortilla chips for a fun, sharable experience that complements the buffalo flavor.
-
Craft Beer: Choose an amber or pale ale that will harmonize beautifully with the spicy chicken. The carbonation cuts through the richness, making every bite enjoyable.
-
Compact Caesar Salad: With crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, this classic salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory roll-ups.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note. Soft, gooey cookies will round off the experience, leaving guests smiling and satisfied.
Enjoy these pairings as you share your delectable buffalo chicken roll-ups with friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
Room Temperature: These roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can sit out for up to 2 hours before they must be refrigerated to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked roll-ups on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the roll-ups in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 325°F for 5-7 minutes, keeping that Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups crispy!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups
- Thaw Puff Pastry: Always ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed before rolling to prevent tearing and achy hands.
- Room Temp Cream Cheese: Using cream cheese at room temperature makes it easier to mix and creates a smoother filling for your delicious Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading the puff pastry with the filling; a little goes a long way. Too much can cause spillage during baking.
- Preheat Properly: Preheating your oven to 400°F is critical for achieving that perfect flaky texture. A hot oven ensures even cooking.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the roll-ups in advance and store them in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially handy for parties!
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity and make this recipe your own with these tasty twists!
-
Barbecue Sauce: Swap the buffalo sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
Elevate the taste by adding a hint of smoked paprika to enhance the barbecue experience. -
Vegetarian Option: Replace rotisserie chicken with shredded jackfruit or roasted cauliflower for a delicious meat-free alternative.
This option maintains the heartiness and will definitely please vegetarian guests! -
Cheese Blend: Experiment with pepper jack and gouda for an extra kick and creamy texture.
The combination gives a delightful twist while keeping the roll-ups generously cheesy. -
Veggie Add-Ins: Add chopped green onions or diced celery to the filling for a fresh crunch and flavor boost.
Using veggies not only enhances the taste but also adds nutritional benefits, making them even better! -
Spicy Heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
This variation is perfect for those who crave that fiery excitement in each bite! -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the filling for an aromatic experience.
The herbs will add a depth of flavor, making these roll-ups distinctly savory and inviting. -
Creamy Spin: Blend in a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creamy filling.
This addition beautifully complements the spiciness while adding a tangy twist to the flavor! -
Nutty Crust: Sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top before baking for a delightful crunch.
A nutty topping enhances both texture and flavor, transforming your roll-ups into something truly unforgettable!
Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using rotisserie chicken because it's already cooked and shredded, saving you considerable time. If rotisserie isn’t available, you can substitute it with cooked chicken breast—just ensure it’s shredded and seasoned to maintain flavor.
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups?
Very! After enjoying these delightful roll-ups, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be best enjoyed within 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain that lovely crispiness!
Can I freeze the roll-ups before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups, first assemble them completely without baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to bake them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What if my puff pastry keeps tearing?
No worries! If your puff pastry is tearing, it may not be fully thawed. Ensure the pastry is at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before working with it. If it’s chilly, it can crack—this will help it roll out smoothly. Additionally, rolling it out on a lightly floured surface can prevent sticking.
Can I make these roll-ups without cream cheese?
Certainly! If you're avoiding cream cheese, you can substitute it with a mixture of sour cream and Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind, the texture will be slightly different, but it will still be creamy and delicious!
Are Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes! If you require a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry available at specialty grocery stores or online. Additionally, double-check the buffalo sauce and chicken for any hidden gluten ingredients to ensure everything aligns with your dietary needs. Enjoy!
Irresistibly Easy Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded rotisserie chicken, mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and buffalo sauce until well-blended.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to a rectangle measuring 9×12 inches.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border, and brush the border with beaten egg.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log, slice into 12 equal pieces, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with remaining beaten egg and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, top each roll-up with a bit of reserved chicken mixture, and bake again for an additional 6-8 minutes.
- For air fryer method, assemble as directed and air fry at 325°F for 10-12 minutes, adding reserved mixture halfway through.
Leave a Reply