Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are one of my all-time favorites. Not only are they deliciously creamy and satisfying, but they’re also super easy to whip up on busy weeknights or serve at family gatherings. Everyone will love them, and I promise they’ll disappear in no time!

What makes this recipe so special is the blend of flavors and textures. The fluffy crescent rolls wrap around a savory chicken filling and are then drizzled with that dreamy creamy Parmesan sauce—pure comfort food bliss! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings when you need to get dinner on the table fast!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these savory pillows; they’re fun to eat!
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or appetizer, these pillows fit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance and bake when you’re ready.
• Deliciously Creamy: The rich Parmesan sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this dish is a breeze! You’ll find that these wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or easy to pick up at the store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the best things about these Chicken Pillows is their flexibility! You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or diced bell peppers to boost nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar for a new twist.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to kick things up!

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your Chicken Pillows bake evenly and turn golden brown. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper will help prevent sticking, making clean-up easier!

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 combines well and turns creamy. This flavorful filling is what makes each bite of your Chicken Pillows so delightful!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into 8 triangles. Lightly pressing each triangle helps create a larger surface area for filling. This little step makes assembly much easier!

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the widest part of each triangle. Carefully fold over the edges and pinch them to seal tightly. This gives each pillow its unique shape while keeping all that tasty filling inside.

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each filled pillow with beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish when baking. If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before sliding them into the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Carefully place your prepared chicken pillows onto the lined baking sheet and bake for about 20–25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time—it’s hard not to sneak a taste!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While those lovely pillows are baking away, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until slightly golden—this creates your roux! Next, gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 3–5 minutes until thickened—this sauce is going to be heavenly drizzled over your pillows!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken pillows are golden brown from baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with that warm creamy Parmesan sauce. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your filling. This makes a significant difference in taste, bringing out the rich flavors of the creamy sauce.

• Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to add a lot of filling, be careful not to overstuff the crescent rolls. A generous but manageable amount keeps them from bursting while baking.

• Seal Properly: Make sure to pinch the edges of the crescent dough well. This prevents any filling from leaking out during baking, ensuring that each bite is deliciously filled.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. This adds a fun twist and can make the dish even more appealing!

• Serve Warm: These chicken pillows are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with their flaky texture when served immediately.

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Presentation matters! Serve your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce in an inviting way that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness that enhances the overall appearance and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds elegance and reinforces that cheesy goodness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add both color and spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the chicken pillows perfectly.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate while also providing a nice crunch alongside the creamy pillows.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of your main dish.

• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus is a flavorful side that pairs well with both chicken and creamy sauces.

With these serving suggestions, your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on your dining table! Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the chicken pillows according to the recipe instructions but do not bake them.
• Freeze them on a baking sheet for about 1 hour until firm.
• Transfer the frozen pillows to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Bake frozen chicken pillows directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce.

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

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to your pillows. Just shred it and mix it with the cream cheese filling as directed.

How can I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce healthier?

To lighten this dish, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reducing the amount of butter in both the filling and sauce. You can also serve these pillows with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.

Can I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce without crescent roll dough?

Yes, you can use puff pastry or homemade dough if you prefer. Just ensure that you adjust baking times accordingly based on the dough used.

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

These delicious pillows pair wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these delightful Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! They’re not just a feast for your taste buds but also bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!