Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, then Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the recipe for you! This delightful dish wraps tender, shredded chicken in flaky crescent dough and is drizzled with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

What makes this recipe special is not just its delicious flavor, but also its simplicity. You can whip these up in no time, making it an easy choice whenever you need a tasty meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Chicken Pillows!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have these Chicken Pillows ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy filling wrapped in warm dough—it’s a hit at any age!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble just before baking. So handy for entertaining!
• Deliciously Versatile: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds an irresistible flavor that takes this dish to another level.
• Fun to Make Together: Get the family involved in rolling and sealing the pillows; cooking becomes a fun activity!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! You’ll find everything you need right here; no fancy items required.

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of shredded chicken for a quick alternative.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Switch out Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar to mix up the taste profile.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your Chicken Pillows a kick!

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 helps prevent sticking later on, so don’t skip this step!

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 that yummy flavor comes from!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll your crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles. Lightly press each triangle to flatten it out slightly—this gives you more room for that delicious 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 together to seal in all that goodness. Each pillow should look nice and snug!

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each chicken pillow with beaten egg to achieve that golden finish as they bake. If you’re adding panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top now for an extra crunchy texture.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place those beautiful chicken pillows onto your lined baking sheet and bake them in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While your chicken pillows are baking away, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until slightly golden—this creates a roux that thickens our sauce beautifully. Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to keep things smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently until thickened; this sauce will be rich and dreamy!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken pillows are golden brown, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle that luscious warm Parmesan sauce over them before serving immediately—it’s time to dig into this delicious creation!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor without much effort.

• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your crescent rolls. A generous portion is great, but too much filling can make sealing difficult and lead to leaks during baking.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings in your chicken mixture. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian herbs can enhance the flavor profile and add a personal touch.

• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your chicken pillows a few minutes early to prevent over-baking. You want them golden brown and crispy, not dry.

• Let Them Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing your chicken pillows to cool for a few minutes after baking helps the filling set slightly, making them easier to serve without spilling out.

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Presenting your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is all about making it visually appealing and deliciously satisfying!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds vibrant color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Parmesan Shavings: A few delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the presentation while reinforcing that cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: The slight crunch and mild flavor of steamed broccoli provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the chicken pillows.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing bite that balances the heaviness of the main dish, adding some crunch and zest to your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini not only taste wonderful but also add visual appeal to your meal.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends at your next gathering! Enjoy your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce—they’re bound to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance, stored, or even frozen, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, reheat only the amount you plan to eat at one time.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy, about 15–20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for quick reheating; just be aware that they may not be as crispy.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to your filling. Just shred it and mix it in with the cream cheese and spices.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

If you’re looking to lighten up the sauce, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based milk alternative like almond milk. Note that this may alter the texture slightly but will still taste delicious!

How do I prevent my chicken pillows from getting soggy?

To keep your chicken pillows crispy, make sure not to overfill them and bake them until they are golden brown. Additionally, storing leftovers in an airtight container helps maintain their texture.

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

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure your panko breadcrumbs are also gluten-free. The recipe will taste just as delightful!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce as much as I do! They’re not only simple but also incredibly satisfying—perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings or sauces. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!