Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are such a delight. They’re filled with tender shredded chicken and cream cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around for seconds!

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to put together while still offering that comforting homemade touch. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just treating yourself, these chicken pillows are bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy filling and crispy exterior.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken pillows in advance and bake them right before serving!
• Versatile Flavors: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds amazing flavor that elevates the dish.
• Perfect for Leftovers: These pillows reheat beautifully, making them great for lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delicious dish. Let’s gather everything you’ll need for those delightful Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce!

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
• 1 tube (8-count) crescent roll dough

For the Topping

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your fillings or sauces. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken if you have it on hand.
• Add veggies: Mix in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheesy taste.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce if you like a little heat.

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken pillows bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking—trust me, it makes clean-up so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This mixture is what makes our chicken pillows so rich and flavorful!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles. Lightly press each triangle to flatten them slightly; this gives you more surface area for filling. The dough should be easy to work with and perfect for wrapping around our delicious filling.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous portion of your creamy chicken mixture onto the widest part of each crescent roll triangle. Carefully fold over the edges of each triangle and pinch them closed to seal in all that goodness. You want them to be nice little pillows, snugly holding their filling!

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each chicken pillow lightly with beaten egg—this will give them that beautiful golden finish once baked. If you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?), sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra crunchy texture.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your prepared chicken pillows onto the lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While those goodies are baking away, let’s make our creamy Parmesan sauce! Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until slightly golden—this creates our roux. Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer until thickened—it should coat the back of a spoon beautifully.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken pillows are perfectly golden brown, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Drizzle generously with your creamy Parmesan sauce for an indulgent finish! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Chicken Pillows is easier than you think, and a few simple tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, this recipe is a perfect way to use it up! Not only does it save time, but it also adds extra flavor from the seasonings already in the chicken.

• Keep the filling creamy: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This ensures a smooth and creamy filling that spreads easily inside the crescent rolls.

• Don’t overfill: It might be tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can lead to leaks during baking. Stick to a generous spoonful to keep everything intact!

• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well!

• Prepare ahead of time: You can assemble the pillows and refrigerate them before baking. This makes for an easy meal on busy nights—just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Presentation can elevate any dish, and these Chicken Pillows are no exception! Here are some ideas for serving them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked pepper right before serving enhances the flavor and adds visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pillows.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. They add both color and nutrition alongside the main dish.
• Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Serve warm for that delightful crunch!
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also offers a healthy side that balances out the richness of the chicken pillows.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce will be a hit at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for a quick, delicious meal later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the chicken pillows up to the point of baking.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; label it with the date.
• Use within 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual pillows on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may affect the crispiness.

FAQs

Got questions about making these delightful Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other types of cheese in the creamy sauce?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a delicious flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I ensure my Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce come out crispy?

To achieve that golden, crispy texture, make sure to brush each pillow with egg wash and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. This adds an extra layer of crunch!

Can I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a delightful vegetarian version. Just ensure your cream cheese and parmesan alternatives are dairy-free if needed.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Preparation time is around 20 minutes, while baking takes about 25 minutes. In total, you can have these delicious pillows ready in just under an hour!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! They are not only scrumptious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe brings comfort and joy. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!