When the evening rolls around and the thought of fast food becomes a little too tempting, I often find myself reaching for something comforting yet quick to whip up. That’s when these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce come to my rescue! Picture this: soft, flaky crescent dough lovingly cradling a savory blend of tender chicken and creamy cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. The first bite is a revelation, with a warm, cheesy interior melting in your mouth, while the drizzle of rich Parmesan sauce elevates this dish to a new level of indulgence.
These delightful pillows are more than just an easy dinner; they’re a hug in a meal, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply someone who values homemade comfort over takeout, this recipe is your ideal companion. So, let’s dive into the simple steps that will transform your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness!
Why make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan?
Deliciously Simple: This recipe combines convenience and comfort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flaky Perfection: The buttery crescent dough creates a soft yet crispy exterior that everyone will love.
Heavenly Filling: The creamy chicken mixture is packed with flavor, ensuring each bite is an indulgent experience.
Versatile Choices: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or veggies for added nutrition.
Quick Bake Time: Ready in just 25 minutes, you can satisfy your cravings without the wait!
Family Favorite: Easy to make and share, these pillows are sure to become a hit at the dinner table.
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Ingredients
For the Filling
- Cooked Chicken – Provides protein and texture; substitute cooked turkey for a lighter option.
- Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and binds the filling; Neufchâtel cheese can be used as a lighter alternative.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Contributes flavor and richness; swap for Swiss cheese if preferred.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor with a hint of garlic; fresh minced garlic can also be used in equal measure.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth to the filling; fresh onions can be sautéed and used instead.
- Dried Parsley – Provides color and mild herbal flavor; fresh parsley can be used for a more vibrant taste.
For the Dough
- Crescent Roll Dough – The pastry base that creates the pillow structure; can substitute with puff pastry for a flakier texture.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds the distinct cheesy flavor to the sauce; Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste.
For Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Fresh Parsley for Garnish – Optional, for added color and freshness.
How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet. This preparation step ensures your Chicken Pillows will bake evenly and lift off the sheet easily.
-
Mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined. You want a smooth and creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor!
-
Unroll the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface, then separate it into triangles. This will be the delightful pastry that encases our rich filling.
-
Spoon a dollop of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle and roll up, pinch the edges to seal tightly. This is where the magic happens as you create your little pillows of goodness!
-
Arrange the filled pillows on the greased baking sheet, making sure they do not touch. Spacing them will allow them to puff up nicely as they bake.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with tantalizing aromas that hint at the deliciousness to come!
-
Prepare the sauce by combining heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy sauce will bring an extra level of indulgence to your meal.
-
Cool the pillows for 5 minutes once they’re out of the oven, then drizzle with your creamy sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. These delightful touches turn a simple dish into a gourmet experience.
Optional: Serve with a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan?
Transform your meal into a comforting feast by pairing your soft pillows of chicken greatness with delightful sides that create harmony on your dinner table.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A colorful mix of greens and crisp vegetables provides a refreshing balance to the rich, creamy pillows.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness compliments the soft texture of the pillows while adding a punch of flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender florets with a satisfying crunch offer nutritional balance, perfectly contrasting the dish’s creamy filling.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slightly sweet taste of asparagus adds a satisfying twist and dresses up the dinner plate beautifully.
Pair it all with a glass of chilled Chardonnay, its crisp acidity will cut through the richness of the creamy sauce, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
For a sweet ending, consider serving with a slice of warm apple pie, bringing a homemade comfort to the table that resonates with nostalgia and warmth.
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that can take your chicken pillows to new heights of flavor and creativity!
-
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta for a tasty meatless option. This variation brings in hearty veggies and a creamy texture.
-
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for a zesty warmth that elevates the taste from comforting to exciting.
-
Cheesy Delights: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese brings its distinct creaminess and taste, creating endless combinations.
-
Herbed Bliss: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or chives into the filling for an aromatic boost that adds freshness with every bite. The vibrant flavors will brighten your dish significantly.
-
Pesto Infusion: Swirl in a couple of tablespoons of pesto into the filling to enhance the flavors with a rich, herby taste. It adds a gourmet touch that can impress anyone at your dinner table.
-
Crunchy Topping: For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan on top of the pillows before baking. This crunchy layer will offer a delightful contrast to the soft, flaky pastry.
-
Sweet Surprise: Add a touch of sweetness with diced apples or pears in the filling for a sweet and savory contrast that will surprise your taste buds in the best way possible.
-
Different Dough: Switch up the dough by using phyllo pastry for a flaky, layered alternative to the classic crescent roll. This results in a crispier texture that feels indulgent and fancy.
Embrace these variations to make this recipe truly yours; the possibilities are boundless!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispier texture that revives their flaky goodness.
Freezer: Place Chicken Pillows in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container to store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestion: Drizzle with extra creamy Parmesan sauce after reheating to bring back that delicious flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pillows up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them covered in the refrigerator to keep the dough fresh and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just place the unbaked pillows on a greased baking sheet and pop them directly into the oven—there’s no need to thaw! Additionally, you can make the creamy Parmesan sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before drizzling over the baked pillows for that same creamy indulgence, ensuring a delicious family meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan
- Seal Well: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough firmly to prevent any leaking filling during baking.
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary. Golden brown is your best indicator of doneness for these chicken pillows.
- Mix It Up: For a twist, consider adding sautéed garlic and fresh herbs like basil or rosemary to the filling for a flavor boost.
- Perfect Baking Sheets: Use quality non-stick baking sheets or parchment paper to ensure the pillows bake evenly and come off easily.
- Cooling Period: Allow the Chicken Pillows to cool for a few minutes before drizzling with sauce; this helps set the filling and enhances the flavors.
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Absolutely, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great choice for convenience and taste, but you can also use leftover grilled chicken or poach your own chicken breasts. Just ensure it’s cooked through and easy to shred for the perfect texture in your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan.
How should leftovers be stored?
To keep your Chicken Pillows fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain their flaky texture—simply preheat to 375°F (190°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze the Chicken Pillows?
Yes! To freeze, arrange the unbaked Chicken Pillows on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. For baking, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time for those frozen beauties.
How can I avoid the filling leaking out while baking?
Very important! Make sure to pinch the edges of the crescent dough tightly after rolling each pillow. You can also consider rolling out the dough a bit more before filling to ensure a tighter seal. This technique helps prevent any delicious filling from leaking during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re serving these Chicken Pillows to guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the recipe. Use gluten-free crescent dough for a gluten-sensitive option, and for dairy-free friends, try using dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy milk for the sauce. Always double-check labels for allergens!
What should I serve with Chicken Pillows?
I often pair these delightful pillows with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You can also serve them with extra creamy Parmesan sauce on the side for those who just can’t get enough of that flavor!
Savory Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- Mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface, then separate it into triangles.
- Spoon a dollop of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle and roll up, pinching the edges to seal tightly.
- Arrange the filled pillows on the greased baking sheet, making sure they do not touch.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the sauce by combining heavy cream and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cool the pillows for 5 minutes, then drizzle with your creamy sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.