Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. These savory pillows combine tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flaky crescent dough, making them an instant favorite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The standout feature of Chicken Pillows is their versatility; you can customize the filling and sauce to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for beginners.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of cream cheese and spices creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs beautifully with the crispy pastry.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these pillows as a main course or as an appetizer at parties. They’re great for any gathering!
• Quick Cooking Time: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves comfort food, and these Chicken Pillows are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your chicken pillows, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl helps combine ingredients well without spilling.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth sauce by blending ingredients thoroughly.
• Pastry brush: Useful for applying egg wash evenly on the chicken pillows for that golden finish.

Ingredients

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 Dough

• 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

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl:
1. Mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter.
2. Stir until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough:
1. Separate it into 8 individual triangles.
2. Lightly press each triangle to flatten and slightly widen the surface.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

For each triangle:
1. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto the widest part.
2. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal them tightly into pillow shapes.

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

1. Brush each chicken pillow with beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
2. If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over each one for extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place the prepared chicken pillows on your lined baking sheet:
1. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While baking:
1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
3. Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
2. Drizzle with warm Parmesan sauce before serving immediately.

With this easy recipe for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

These delicious Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will surely impress everyone at the table.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and topped with parmesan shavings and croutons.
• Mixed Greens: A light mix of arugula, spinach, and other greens dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Complement with Roasted Vegetables

• Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and salt for an elegant touch.
• Carrots: Honey-glazed roasted carrots add a sweet flavor that balances the savory chicken pillows.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers roasted until tender, providing both nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.

Add a Flavorful Grain

• Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa makes for a nutritious base that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf cooked in broth adds depth and enhances the overall meal experience.

How to Perfect Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

To ensure your Chicken Pillows turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will help elevate your dish’s flavor, presentation, and overall enjoyment.

• Ingredients: Use high-quality cream cheese and fresh herbs for richer flavors.
• Proper Sealing: Make sure to pinch the edges of the crescent dough tightly to keep the filling from leaking during baking.
• Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even cooking and browning on all sides.
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and texture.
• Serve Warm: Always serve your Chicken Pillows warm, as they taste best right out of the oven alongside the creamy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Pillows can complement their flavors beautifully. Here are some excellent options that will round out your meal nicely.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pillows.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort food vibes, making it feel like a cozy meal.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness while keeping it low-carb.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a burst of natural sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream cheese can be hard to mix. Always soften it first for a creamy filling.
• Overfilling the Dough: Adding too much filling can cause the pillows to burst. Use just enough to fill without overflowing.
• Not Sealing Properly: If the edges aren’t pinched well, they may open during baking. Make sure to seal them tightly.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash gives a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step for an attractive finish.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on the chicken pillows and remove them when they’re golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each chicken pillow in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may cause sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce that may help you out!

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or any cooked chicken works great for this recipe.

How do I customize the filling?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or use different cheeses for variety.

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

Absolutely! Prepare them and store in the fridge before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Chicken Pillows?

These pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!