Chicken Parmesan Cups

Name: Chicken Parmesan Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 can crescent roll dough sheet; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 3 fried chicken tenders, cooked but not frozen; ½ cup marinara sauce, plus more for dipping; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: January 6, 2026

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Introduction to Chicken Parmesan Cups

As a busy mom, I completely understand the challenge of getting a wholesome meal on the table when time slips away. That’s where my Chicken Parmesan Cups come to the rescue! These little bites of joy pack all the gooey cheese and savory chicken flavors we love, but take only 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or an appetizer that will wow your guests, these cups have you covered. Trust me, the smiles from your family will make all that chopping and baking worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Cups

These Chicken Parmesan Cups are not just quick and easy; they’re downright delicious! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels fancy without all the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or surprise gatherings, they hit all the right flavor notes. Plus, you can customize them based on what you have on hand, making them a flexible option for any meal. They’re sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients Chicken Parmesan Cups

Gathering the right ingredients for my Chicken Parmesan Cups is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

Crescent roll dough sheet: This dough is the perfect base that becomes golden and flaky, giving the cups a lovely texture.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: You’ll need a generous amount for that melty goodness. Mozzarella brings classic Italian flavors to every bite.
Fried chicken tenders: I adore using crispy fried chicken for added crunch. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.
Marinara sauce: A key player in this dish. It adds a burst of rich, tangy flavor, perfect for dipping!
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle brings a fresh color and brightens the flavor, making everything pop.

Feel free to get creative! You can customize this recipe with leftover proteins or different cheeses based on what you have in your fridge. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article, where you’ll find a handy printable version of this delicious Chicken Parmesan Cups recipe!

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Cups

Making Chicken Parmesan Cups is a delightful experience! Let’s dive into the steps and see how easy it is to create this tasty dish.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This warm-up is crucial for cooking the dough to perfection.

While the oven heats, grab your muffin tin. Spray eight sections of it with nonstick baking spray to ensure our cups come out easily. It’s a simple step, but it saves a lot of hassle later on!

Roll Out and Shape the Dough

Next, roll out the crescent dough on a clean surface. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; we just need it pliable.
Cut the dough into 8 equal sections. Each piece will be pressed into the muffin tin, forming the base of our cups. Make sure to press them gently into the greased sections, so they hold their shape.

Add Cheese to Form the Base

Now, let’s add some cheesy goodness! Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the bottom of all the dough cups.

This creates a delicious base layer that melts beautifully as they bake. Who can resist that gooey, melty cheese?

Prepare and Incorporate the Chicken

Time to add our chicken! Take those fried chicken tenders and cut them into bite-sized pieces,—about 8 pieces per tender will do.

Next, dip each piece into your marinara sauce for a burst of flavor. Then, place the saucy chicken pieces inside the cheese-filled cups. Feel free to drizzle any leftover marinara over the chicken for extra flavor. You can’t go wrong with more sauce!

Layer on the Remaining Ingredients

After the chicken is in place, it’s time for more cheese. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the chicken pieces, making sure they’re covered well.

Now, fold the corners of the crescent dough over the filling to form little cups. It doesn’t need to be perfect—just cozy!

Bake and Garnish

Place your muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cups are golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be simply amazing!

Once they’re ready, take them out and let them cool for just a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve them with extra marinara sauce for dipping. Your Chicken Parmesan Cups are now ready to impress!

Tips for Success

Use a nonstick muffin tin for easy removal of your Chicken Parmesan Cups.
Feel free to mix up the cheese! Try provolone or a blend for unique flavors.
Don’t overfill the cups; they need space to puff up while baking.
For extra crunch, brush the dough edges with olive oil before baking.
Let them cool for a minute before serving; they’ll hold together better.

Equipment Needed

Muffin tin: Regular or nonstick; both work wonders for shaping the cups.
Rolling pin: Handy for rolling out the crescent dough; a wine bottle can do in a pinch!
Cutting board: Essential for cutting chicken tenders.
Measuring cups: Use for accurate cheese portions.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious plant-based option.
Cheesy Twist: Add a mix of different cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes in the marinara sauce for a spicy version that’ll wake up your taste buds!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make these cups suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Fresh Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano into the chicken for added aromatic flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Parmesan Cups with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette.
Serve alongside garlic bread for an authentic Italian experience.
For drinks, try a sparkling lemonade or a light Italian red wine.
Presentation tip: Arrange cups on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh parsley!

FAQs about Chicken Parmesan Cups

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions I’ve heard about these delightful Chicken Parmesan Cups. I want to make sure you feel confident whipping them up in your own kitchen!

Can I use store-bought fried chicken instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought fried chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure it’s crispy and flavorful to complement the rest of the dish.

How do I reheat Chicken Parmesan Cups?
To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This ensures they stay crispy on the outside while warming the inside. You can also use the microwave but be aware that they may lose some crunch!

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Cups?
Yes, you can! Just let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake from frozen for about 20 minutes at 375°F.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Cups?
These cups pair perfectly with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or even a crispy side of roasted vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Can I customize the fillings for Chicken Parmesan Cups?
Definitely! You can add various ingredients like sautéed veggies, different cheeses, or even spices. This dish is all about making it your own!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful adventure, don’t you think? These Chicken Parmesan Cups put smiles on my family’s faces and fill our home with delicious aromas. The process is quick and easy, yet the results feel special, making it perfect for busy days.

I hope you invite your loved ones into your kitchen for this delightful recipe! Whether as a weeknight dinner or a chic appetizer for gatherings, these cups are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy creating these tasty morsels that blend comfort and joy in every bite!