Cozy Up with Chicken Pillows and Creamy Parmesan Sauce
There’s something truly comforting about biting into a warm Chicken Pillow, especially when it’s enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish doesn’t just satisfy the appetite; it’s like a warm hug on a plate that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Whether you’re celebrating a chilly evening, enjoying a family dinner, or surprising loved ones with a delightful homemade meal, Chicken Pillows are the answer. I first encountered this delightful recipe during a family gathering, and each bite took me back to my childhood. It’s a dish that brings people together, combining crispy pastry and creamy filling for an unforgettable experience.
What Makes This Recipe Special
People often ask, “Why should I make Chicken Pillows?" Let me tell you — this dish has all the right elements to become a family favorite. It’s incredibly quick to whip up, especially if you use rotisserie chicken or leftovers. This makes it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that won’t have you stuck in the kitchen for hours. The creamy Parmesan sauce elevates the dish, adding a rich flavor that feels gourmet but is completely approachable.
“These Chicken Pillows are a game-changer! The creamy sauce is everything, and they disappeared quickly at our dinner table.” — Satisfied home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Ready to dive in? Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is straightforward and fulfilling. You’ll begin by preparing the creamy filling, which is a simple mix of shredded chicken, cream cheese, seasonings, and herbs. Next, you’ll wrap this joyous mixture in flaky crescent roll dough and bake until golden brown. The pièce de résistance is the creamy Parmesan sauce, which you’ll whip up while the pillows are baking.
Gather These Essential Ingredients
To create these delicious Chicken Pillows, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great for a speedy prep.)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (This adds a savory depth.)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder (Enhances the overall taste.)
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley (Fresh can be used for an extra pop of flavor.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (Feel free to adjust according to your preferences.)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground for a stronger kick.)
- 2 tbsp Melted Butter (Adds a delightful richness.)
- 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough (This provides a flaky, buttery crust.)
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional for a bonus crunch.)
- 1 large Egg (Beaten for the egg wash.)
- 4 tbsp Butter (For the roux.)
- 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour (Thickens the sauce beautifully.)
- 1 cup Whole Milk (Creates the creamy sauce base.)
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Adds luxurious richness.)
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano is best.)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder (Balance the flavor.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (Adjust to your liking.)
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (For depth in the sauce.)
Ingredient Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- If you’re lactose intolerant, consider plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get you cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delightful dinner:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the cooked chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wider end of each triangle.
- Roll each triangle up to form a pillow shape and pinch the edges to seal.
- If using, dip the pillows into melted butter and coat with Panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Place them on a greased baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the chicken is heated through.
For the creamy sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Once thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until creamy.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Presentation can elevate your dining experience, so serve your Chicken Pillows with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of creamy Parmesan sauce on top. A crisp salad or roasted vegetables on the side adds a nice balance. And for a comforting drink, consider pairing it with a buttery chardonnay or a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you’ve got leftovers (though they might be hard to resist), here’s how to store them safely:
- Refrigerate: Place the Chicken Pillows in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap each pillow tightly in plastic wrap.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few insider secrets to make your Chicken Pillows even more scrumptious:
- For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or some sautéed spinach to the chicken mixture.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will help it blend smoothly.
- Experiment with different cheeses in the creamy sauce, like mozzarella or asiago, for varied flavor.
Creative Twists to Try
Looking to switch things up? Here are some ideas:
- Buffalo Chicken Pillows: Mix in buffalo sauce with the chicken filling for a zesty twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious meat-free alternative.
- Cheesy Spinach Version: Add spinach and mozzarella cheese to the filling for a wonderful cheesy herb vibe.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the average prep time for this dish?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, with cooking taking about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying dish!
Can I use a different type of dough?
Absolutely! Puff pastry or biscuit dough would work well if you’re looking for alternatives.
Is it safe to freeze after baking?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking, but the texture may vary upon reheating.
Now that you’re equipped with all the details, it’s time to make these delightful Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for your next cozy night! Enjoy the warmth and smiles that this dish brings to your home.
Chicken Pillows
Ingredients
For the Chicken Pillows
- 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great for a speedy prep.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder This adds a savory depth.
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley Fresh can be used for an extra pop of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Salt Feel free to adjust according to your preferences.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground for a stronger kick.
- 2 tbsp Melted Butter Adds a delightful richness.
- 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough This provides a flaky, buttery crust.
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Optional for a bonus crunch.
- 1 large Egg Beaten for the egg wash.
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tbsp Butter For the roux.
- 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour Thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup Whole Milk Creates the creamy sauce base.
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Adds luxurious richness.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano is best.
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Balance the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to your liking.
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper For depth in the sauce.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Pillows
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the cooked chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wider end of each triangle.
- Roll each triangle up to form a pillow shape and pinch the edges to seal.
- If using, dip the pillows into melted butter and coat with Panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Place them on a greased baking sheet and brush with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the chicken is heated through.
Preparing the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Once thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until creamy.
