Name: Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 tube (8-count) crescent roll dough; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 2 tablespoons butter; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, then you’re in for a treat with these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. This recipe is one of my favorites, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The fluffy crescent dough wraps around a creamy chicken filling, and when drizzled with the rich Parmesan sauce, it’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this meal will have everyone asking for seconds!

The beauty of these Chicken Pillows lies in their simplicity and flavor. They come together quickly and can be enjoyed any night of the week or served as a special dish at your next gathering. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the flavors and textures of these delightful pillows.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken filling in advance and assemble the pillows whenever you’re ready to bake.
Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and buttery sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a comforting meal. Gather these items before you start cooking:

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
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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 flexible, allowing you to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Add some heat: If you like a little spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture or the sauce.
Experiment with cheeses: Instead of Parmesan, feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can add an extra layer of flavor to both the filling and the sauce.

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 ensures that nothing sticks during baking. This step is crucial for easy cleanup!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This filling is where all the magic begins!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles. Lightly press each triangle to flatten it out just a bit; this makes them easier to work with when adding your filling.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous portion of your chicken mixture onto the widest part of each crescent roll triangle. Carefully fold over the edges and pinch them closed to create small pillow-like shapes. Sealing them well ensures none of that delicious filling escapes while baking!

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each filled pillow with beaten egg—this gives them that beautiful golden finish when baked. If you want an extra crunch factor, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before they go in the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Arrange your prepared chicken pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake for about 20–25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely divine!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While your pillows are baking away, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until slightly golden before gradually adding whole milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking until smooth! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper—this sauce becomes rich and velvety as it simmers.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken pillows are golden brown, pull them out from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle that warm creamy Parmesan sauce over them before serving! Enjoy every bite—these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are bound to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the best version of this dish!

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs like thyme can elevate your filling.
Don’t Overstuff: While it may be tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can cause the pillows to burst during baking. Stick to a generous portion that can comfortably fit.
Let Them Cool Slightly: Allow the chicken pillows to cool for a few minutes after baking before serving. This prevents burns and helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to eat.
Double the Sauce: If you love creamy sauces, consider doubling the recipe for the Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for drizzling over not just the pillows but also any sides you serve!

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Serving your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding a little extra grated Parmesan on top before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.
Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper not only looks appealing but also adds a touch of spice.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra cream sauce while offering a delicious garlicky flavor that pairs well with the chicken pillows.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and slight crunch of steamed broccoli balance out the richness of the dish, making for a nutritious accompaniment.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pillows.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that complements the flavors in your meal beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce will surely impress family and friends at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish anytime. You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To keep them crispy, store any leftover sauce separately.

Freezing

Prepare the chicken pillows as instructed, but do not bake them.
Place the filled and sealed pillows on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other, and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer the pillows to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For refrigerated chicken pillows, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
For frozen chicken pillows, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
Reheat the creamy Parmesan sauce gently on the stovetop until warm before serving.

FAQs

If you’re curious about Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, here are some common questions that might help!

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

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Just shred it and mix it into your filling.

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

These delightful pillows pair well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread to soak up that wonderful creamy sauce!

Can I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The recipe will still be just as tasty!

How do I add more flavor to Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Feel free to experiment by adding chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like thyme or basil to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! They are special because they combine comfort food vibes with easy preparation. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering of friends, these delightful pillows are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!

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