Irresistible Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is one of those recipes that never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or just looking for a delightful weeknight meal, these chicken pillows are sure to please everyone. The tender chicken filling enveloped in flaky crescent dough, all drizzled with a rich Parmesan sauce, makes every bite feel special.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining. The combination of flavors and textures creates an irresistible dish that has quickly become a family favorite. Trust me, once you try these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, you’ll be adding them to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– Crowd-pleaser: With its creamy filling and crispy exterior, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
– Versatile: Great for casual meals or special occasions—it’s always a hit!
– Comfort food classic: Rich and satisfying, this recipe evokes all the cozy feelings of home-cooked meals.
– Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into making these delicious chicken pillows, let’s gather everything you’ll need. This list keeps things simple yet flavorful, ensuring you have all the essentials at hand.
For the Chicken Filling
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon dried parsley
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
For the Pastry
– 1 tube (8-count) crescent roll dough
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup heavy cream
– ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is having the freedom to get creative! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own.
– Swap the protein: Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken if you have it on hand.
– Add veggies: Mix in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
– Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar instead of Parmesan for a different twist.
– Go gluten-free: Substitute the crescent roll dough with gluten-free pastry options available at your local store.
How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is essential as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This filling will be the star of your chicken pillows!
Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough carefully and separate it into eight individual triangles. Lightly press each triangle down to flatten them slightly; this gives you more surface area for filling.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows
Spoon a generous portion of that delicious chicken mixture onto the wide part of each crescent triangle. Fold over the edges and pinch them together firmly to seal in all that goodness. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs
Brush each filled pillow with beaten egg; this will give them a beautiful golden finish as they bake. If you’re feeling adventurous and enjoy a bit of crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over each pillow before placing them in the oven.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Carefully place your prepared chicken pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake them for about 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for that lovely golden brown color—this indicates they’re perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside.
Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
While your chicken pillows are baking away, it’s time to whip up that creamy sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter then whisk in flour until slightly golden—this forms your roux. Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about three to five minutes until thickened; it’ll be absolutely heavenly drizzled over your pillows!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once those beautiful chicken pillows are out of the oven and cooled slightly, drizzle them generously with your creamy sauce right before serving. These little bites of joy are best enjoyed warm—gather around the table and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time! Follow these simple suggestions to elevate your dish and impress your family and friends.
– Use rotisserie chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and saves you time on cooking the chicken yourself.
– Ensure the filling is well-mixed: Take the time to thoroughly mix the filling ingredients. A creamy, well-combined filling will distribute evenly and enhance the flavor in each bite.
– Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to add lots of filling, remember that too much can cause the pillows to burst open during baking. Stick to about 2 tablespoons per pillow for best results.
– Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning in the chicken filling. Adding a pinch of cayenne or Italian herbs can give your pillows an extra kick or distinct flavor profile.
– Let the sauce cool slightly before serving: If you want a thicker sauce, allow it to cool for a few minutes after cooking. This helps it achieve a perfect consistency when drizzled over the pillows.
How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Serving Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is all about presentation and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your meal stand out!
Garnishes
– Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
– Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top just before serving enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
– Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken pillows perfectly.
– Steamed vegetables: Brightly colored steamed broccoli or carrots add nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
– Garlic bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces.
– Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that complements the savory flavors of your main dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can make your weeknight dinners stress-free! Here’s how you can prepare ahead of time and store any leftovers effectively.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
– To freeze, place uncooked chicken pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
– You can also freeze cooked chicken pillows; just be sure they are cooled and wrapped tightly.
Reheating
– For reheating frozen uncooked pillows, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden brown.
– To reheat cooked pillows, place them in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for varied flavors.
Are there any substitutes for cream cheese?
You can use Neufchâtel cheese or even ricotta cheese as alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chicken pillows, substitute crescent roll dough with gluten-free pastry dough available at most grocery stores.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re inspired to create these delicious Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! They’re perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out—your loved ones will surely appreciate it. Enjoy every bite!
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter until well combined and creamy.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into eight individual triangles. Lightly press each triangle down to flatten them slightly.
- Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto the wide part of each crescent triangle. Fold over the edges and pinch them together firmly to seal.
- Brush each filled pillow with beaten egg and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over each pillow if desired.
- Place the chicken pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake for about 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until slightly golden. Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and let it simmer until thickened.
- Drizzle the baked chicken pillows with the creamy sauce before serving.
