Chicken Bacon Ranch Ring

This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Crescent Ring has become my weekend entertaining go-to when I need something impressive that doesn't keep me in the kitchen all day. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch wrapped in flaky crescent dough creates a crowd-pleasing dish that disappears within minutes.

I first made this for a last-minute game day gathering when I needed something substantial but easy. It was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every potluck and family function we host.

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken: Provides the hearty protein base – look for rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and convenience
• Crumbled bacon: Adds that irresistible smoky crunch – use thick-cut for best texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates the melty goodness that holds everything together – sharp cheddar gives the most flavor
• Ranch dressing: Serves as both binding agent and flavor booster – choose a high-quality brand for best results
• Green onions (optional): Add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor
• Refrigerated crescent rolls: Create the flaky golden crust that makes this dish special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Allow your oven to fully preheat for at least 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Filling:

Combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly but gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients without breaking up the chicken too much. The mixture should be well coated with the ranch dressing but not soggy.

Arrange the Crescent Rolls:

Unroll both cans of crescent rolls and separate into individual triangles. On your parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange them in a star pattern with the wide ends overlapping in the center and the pointed ends facing outward. Press the overlapping sections gently to seal them. This creates a sturdy base for your filling.

Add the Filling:

Carefully spoon your chicken mixture evenly around the ring on the wide ends of the triangles. Try to distribute it uniformly to ensure even cooking and serving portions. Leave about a half-inch border around the inner edge to help with sealing.

Fold the Ring:

Bring each pointed end up and over the filling, tucking it under the wide end on the inside of the ring. This creates that beautiful braided appearance. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy at first. The heat from baking will help the dough expand and create a cohesive ring.

Bake:

Place the assembled ring in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes as oven temperatures vary. You want the crescent ring to be deeply golden brown with no doughy sections visible. The filling should be heated through and the cheese melted completely.

Serve:

Allow the ring to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to help it set. Cut into portions and serve either warm or at room temperature. A side of extra ranch dressing makes a perfect dipping sauce.

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The secret to this recipe is actually in the quality of your ranch dressing. I once made it with a homemade buttermilk ranch with fresh herbs, and my mother-in-law who claims to dislike ranch dressing had three slices and asked for the recipe. The dressing ties all the flavors together perfectly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This crescent ring can be assembled up to 4 hours before baking. Simply prepare as directed, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 3-5 minutes to the baking time if baking from refrigerated.

Easy Substitutions

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Turkey works perfectly in place of chicken. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. If you're not a fan of ranch, try Caesar dressing or a creamy garlic sauce instead. The basic technique remains the same regardless of your filling choices.

Serving Suggestions

This crescent ring pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a cup of tomato soup. I find that a crisp white wine or cold beer complements the flavors perfectly for adult gatherings.

The Origins Story

While the crescent ring technique has been popular in American home cooking for decades, this particular combination of flavors draws inspiration from the beloved chicken bacon ranch pizza that became popular in the 1990s. I've adapted it to create a more portable, shareable version that's perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to holiday appetizer spreads.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly as it’s already cooked and easy to shred, saving you time in preparation.

→ What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

If you prefer, you can use Caesar dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a garlic aioli for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the crescent ring and store it covered in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. Bake it fresh before serving.

→ How do I prevent the crescent ring from getting soggy?

Ensure the filling is well-mixed and not too liquid. Avoid overloading the ring, so the dough bakes evenly and stays flaky.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze baked slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ What side dishes go well with this meal?

Pair the crescent ring with a fresh garden salad, roasted veggies, or even a hearty soup for a complete meal.