Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, you’ve found it! These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a family favorite in our home. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Each bite is a delightful combination of flaky crust and creamy chicken filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can whip up these chicken pillows as an impressive appetizer or serve them as a main course drizzled with the rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a meal ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty little pillows.
• Make Ahead: Prep the chicken filling in advance and assemble the pillows when you’re ready to bake.
• Irresistible Flavor: The creamy Parmesan sauce takes this dish to the next level—rich and satisfying!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, so you can feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones. Let’s gather what we need for our 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or cheddar instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Mix in some spinach or cooked broccoli into the chicken filling for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for 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 your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps with cleanup later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a bowl, mix together your shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy. This mixture is what gives our chicken pillows that rich flavor!

Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough

Unroll your crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Lightly press each triangle down to flatten it out just a bit. This step helps create more surface area for the filling.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous portion of your creamy chicken mixture onto the widest part of each triangle. Carefully fold over the edges and pinch them together to seal them well—this ensures no filling leaks out while baking.

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each pillow with beaten egg; this gives them that beautiful golden finish as they bake. If you want some extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top before they go into the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your chicken pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake for about 20–25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy all over. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While those delicious pillows are baking away, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until it’s slightly golden (about one minute). Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 3–5 minutes until it thickens nicely.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once those golden brown chicken pillows are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling that warm creamy Parmesan sauce on top. Serve immediately—you won’t be able to resist diving right in!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Making Chicken Pillows is so much fun, and a few pro tips can make them even better!

• Use rotisserie chicken: For a quicker option, using store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your filling.
• Don’t overfill the pillows: Keep the filling generous but not overflowing to ensure they seal properly and don’t burst while baking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
• Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer enhances the flavors; just be sure to whisk it frequently for a silky texture.
• Serve warm: These pillows are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so serve them immediately for that perfect crispy texture.

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Presentation can elevate any dish, and these Chicken Pillows deserve a delightful showcase. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes provides an appealing contrast to the creamy dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This simple side adds a nutritious crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken pillows with its lightness.
• Mixed green salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy Parmesan sauce, making every bite enjoyable!
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables bring both nutrition and visual appeal, creating a well-rounded meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with these delightful Chicken Pillows topped with creamy Parmesan sauce! Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Prepare the chicken pillows but do not bake them.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen pillows to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a rich flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste.

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

You can replace the chicken with cooked mushrooms or spinach mixed with cream cheese and seasonings for a delicious vegetarian version!

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

These delightful pillows pair nicely with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that everyone will love.

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

Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pillows ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! They’re not just delicious; they’re also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!