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These Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups are the perfect snack when you want something with bold flavor and easy preparation. Combining spicy buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and tender chicken, all wrapped in a flaky, golden pastry, these roll-ups deliver a satisfying crunchy outside and a warm, gooey inside. Whether it’s for a game night or a casual get-together, they quickly become the star of the table without fussing over complicated ingredients.
I remember making these for a group of friends once, and they disappeared before I could grab seconds. Now they are a go-to whenever I want an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Shredded Chicken: rotisserie chicken works best for convenience and tender texture
- Buffalo Sauce: brings the iconic spicy tang that makes these roll-ups pop, homemade or store-bought both work great
- Cream Cheese: adds creamy richness and helps keep everything together inside the pastry
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: melts beautifully for gooeyness and sharp flavor that cuts the heat
- Puff Pastry Sheets: look for all-butter versions for the best buttery, flaky exterior, thaw completely before use to avoid tearing
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: used as a drizzle for that cool, creamy finish that balances the spice
- Fresh Parsley (optional): adds a fresh green pop and a little brightness on top
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and creamy. This mixture is the heart of the roll-ups, so getting it well combined ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Roll the Pastry:
- Take your thawed puff pastry sheets and place them on a clean surface. Cut them into even squares around three or four inches wide depending on your preference. Accuracy helps in even baking and size consistency among the roll-ups.
- Shape the Roll-Ups:
- Place a generous spoonful of the buffalo chicken mix onto the center of each pastry square. Bring the corners of the dough toward the center over the filling. You can pinch the corners tightly to seal completely or leave them slightly open on top for a more rustic, casual look.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Arrange the roll-ups on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them so they have room to puff up. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch for golden and flaky pastry as a sign that they are ready.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked and slightly cooled, drizzle your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm for the best experience of melty cheese and crispy crust.
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Buffalo sauce is my favorite part of this dish. I love how it adds just the right level of heat without overpowering the cream cheese smoothing it out. Every time I make these, my family remembers the first time they tried them at a big game gathering and asks for seconds right away.
Storage Tips
After baking, let the roll-ups cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within three days for best flavor. To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible, instead warm them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or in an air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crisp, flaky texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough can work well for a softer, breadier result. For cheese, mozzarella can substitute cheddar for a milder bite, though it won’t have the same tang. If you want less spice, mix buffalo sauce with a bit more cream cheese to cool it down.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving these roll-ups with veggie sticks like carrot and celery for extra crunch and to balance the heat. Garlic parmesan fries or a creamy ranch pasta salad pair beautifully if you want a heartier meal. For something indulgent, baked mac and cheese alongside is pure comfort food.
Cultural Context
Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo, New York, and has since become iconic for bold, spicy flavor. This snack puts a spin on classic buffalo chicken wings by wrapping the flavors inside flaky pastry, merging that bar favorite with easy finger food. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys the warming kick of buffalo sauce with a cheesy twist.
Pro Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a creamier filling
- Do not skip thawing your puff pastry properly, cold pastry will crack and tear when rolling
- If pinch sealing, use a little water on the edges to help them stick better and keep the filling inside
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pastry works best for roll-ups?
All-butter puff pastry sheets provide the best flakiness and flavor, but crescent roll dough can be used for a softer texture.
- → Can I use leftover chicken for the filling?
Yes, shredded rotisserie or any cooked chicken works well to provide hearty texture and protein.
- → How spicy are these roll-ups?
The spicy kick comes from buffalo sauce, which can be adjusted to your heat preference by choosing milder or hotter versions.
- → What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crisp.
- → What dips pair well with these roll-ups?
Ranch or blue cheese dressing adds a cool contrast, enhancing the spicy, cheesy filling.
- → Can I add fresh herbs to the filling?
Fresh parsley is a great choice for a pop of color and subtle freshness, either mixed in or as a garnish.