If you are looking for that one recipe that will make everyone at the table go for seconds, you have found it! This Chicken Avocado Crescent Ring is a total crowd pleaser that looks like it came from a professional bakery but secretly only takes a few minutes of prep.
The Inspiration Behind the Ring
I first came up with this idea during a busy football Sunday when I needed a hearty snack that felt a bit more substantial than just chips and dip. I wanted to combine the creamy richness of a California style club sandwich with the flaky, buttery goodness of a crescent roll. The result was a savory, cheesy masterpiece that has now become a requested favorite for every baby shower and game day in our house!
Flavor and Texture Profile
Every bite of this ring is a texture dream. You get the crispy, golden crunch of the outer pastry, followed by the gooey melted cheddar and salty bacon. The diced avocado becomes warm and slightly buttery in the oven, which pairs perfectly with the tender chunks of chicken. It is savory, salty, and incredibly satisfying.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Crescent Ring
- Use a Guide: My favorite trick is to place a small bowl in the center of your parchment paper before laying down the dough. This acts as a template so your ring stays perfectly circular and professional looking.
- The Egg Wash Secret: While it is optional, I highly recommend the egg wash. It gives the pastry that deep mahogany, glossy finish that makes it look restaurant quality. A little sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top adds a beautiful crunch too.
- Don’t Overstuff: It can be tempting to pile on the chicken, but make sure you leave enough room to actually pull the dough points over the filling. If it is too full, it might burst open while baking.
Make Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Because of the avocado, the filling might darken slightly over time, but it will still taste delicious.
- Reheating: To keep that pastry crispy, reheat your slices in a toaster oven or the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about five minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it will make the crescent dough soft.
- Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this once it is baked, as the avocado changes texture significantly when frozen and thawed. This one is definitely best enjoyed fresh from the oven!
Ingredient Substitutions
- The Protein: If you don’t have chicken breast on hand, rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves even more time. You can also swap the bacon for turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
- The Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go to, but Pepper Jack adds a lovely spicy kick if you want more heat.
- Dietary Swaps: For a dairy free version, use your favorite vegan cheese shreds. Most refrigerated crescent rolls in the US are actually accidentally vegan, but always double check the label!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this ring with a “dipping station” in the center. A mix of mayo and Greek yogurt with a pinch of garlic powder is my personal favorite. For a side dish, a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheese and pastry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake this in a large air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You may need to make a smaller version or cook it in sections depending on the size of your basket.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown?
Since we are baking it immediately, the heat actually helps. If you are prepping the filling a few minutes early, toss the avocado in a little lime juice to keep it bright green.
What kind of chicken is best?
Any cooked chicken works. Leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken (well drained) can work in a pinch.
Equipment List
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl (as a guide)
- Pastry brush (for egg wash)
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
Savory Chicken Avocado Crescent Ring
Ingredients
- 1 8 oz can refrigerated crescent rolls
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 avocado diced
- 3 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash
- Coarse sea salt for topping
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt for dipping sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the triangles. Arrange them in a circle on the baking sheet with the wide ends overlapping and the points facing outward. Use a small bowl in the center to help guide your shape.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese around the base of the ring where the dough overlaps.
- Top the cheese with the diced chicken and avocado, then add the remaining cheese and the crumbled bacon.
- Fold the points of the triangles over the filling and tuck the ends under the center base to seal everything in.
- Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the pastry is deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with the mayo and Greek yogurt mixture for dipping.
