Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that will make your kitchen smell divine, these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite in my home for years. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, these delightful chicken-filled pillows never fail to impress. The creamy Parmesan sauce drizzled on top adds an irresistible touch that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

There’s something so special about sharing food that you love with the people you care about. These Chicken Pillows are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe comes together in just 45 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy chicken filling wrapped in soft dough.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and assemble the pillows when you’re ready to bake.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy as is or get creative with different fillings and sauces.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy Parmesan sauce elevates this dish, making it a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chicken Pillows use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious meal!

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
• 1 tube (8-count) crescent roll dough

For the Topping

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
• Add veggies: Mix in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to suit your taste.
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the filling for an aromatic twist.

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and cream cheese until smooth. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter gives it that rich flavor we love. Stir until everything is combined well; this creamy filling is what makes these pillows so special!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll your crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles. Lightly pressing each triangle will give you more surface area to work with when you fill them.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous portion of your chicken mixture onto the widest part of each triangle. Carefully fold over the edges and pinch them to seal—this creates those delightful pillow shapes that hold all that tasty filling inside.

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each pillow with beaten egg; this gives them a beautiful golden color when baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy finish!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your stuffed pillows on the prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 20–25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While those beauties are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until slightly golden before gradually adding milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking until smooth! Finally, stir in Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper—let it simmer until thickened.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken pillows are perfectly golden brown, let them cool slightly before drizzling that luscious creamy sauce over top. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Creating the perfect chicken pillows is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, herbs, and spices can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. They provide a vibrant taste that dried or older ingredients simply cannot match.

• Don’t Overfill the Pillows: While it might be tempting to add a lot of filling, overfilling can cause them to burst open while baking. Stick to a generous but manageable amount to keep everything intact and perfectly cooked.

• Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your chicken pillows as they bake. You want them golden brown but not burnt! Checking them a few minutes early can save you from overcooking.

• Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses in your filling. This allows you to put your personal twist on the recipe while adding extra nutrition and flavor.

• Make It Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the chicken filling and assemble the pillows ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake!

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Serving chicken pillows is an opportunity to impress your family or guests with both presentation and flavor. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest can add a bright, zesty note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side is nutritious and adds a nice crunch that balances the creaminess of the chicken pillows.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a light dressing pairs well with the richness of the chicken pillows, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy parmesan sauce and makes for a hearty addition.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers not only add color but also offer additional nutrients and flavor that harmonize well with the main dish.

Enjoy your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! Each bite is bound to bring comfort and satisfaction, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for 3-4 days.
• Be sure to separate the sauce if you prefer to keep the pillows crispy.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the uncooked chicken pillows on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat chicken pillows in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, bake them straight from the freezer but add an extra few minutes to the cooking time.
• Warm up the creamy Parmesan sauce separately on low heat and drizzle over before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce that may help you as you prepare this delightful dish!

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds wonderful flavor. Just make sure to shred it before mixing it with the cream cheese filling.

How do I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce healthier?

To make this dish lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the filling for added nutrients.

Can I prepare Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge or freezer. Simply bake when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

These delicious pillows pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A side of garlic bread could also elevate your meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce as I am! This recipe combines cozy comfort food vibes with an elegant touch, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!

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