Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites and has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights or when I want to impress family and friends. The combination of tender chicken wrapped in flaky crescent dough, drizzled with a rich, creamy sauce, is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

These Chicken Pillows are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with close friends. Plus, they are so easy to whip up—you’ll have this delightful meal ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These Chicken Pillows come together in just 45 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the cheesy, savory flavors wrapped inside buttery crescent dough.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble them right before baking!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever cooked chicken you have on hand or switch up the spices for your family’s taste.
• Delicious Sauce: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a luxurious touch that takes this dish over the top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and likely items you already have in your pantry. Gather the following to make these 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 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 quite flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie turkey or even cooked vegetables for a vegetarian version!
• Add some heat: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Experiment with cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar to change the flavor profile.
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the filling for even more flavor.

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 as it ensures that your Chicken Pillows bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will also help prevent any sticking!

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 each bite so deliciously rich!

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 will give you more surface area to hold that tasty chicken filling.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows

Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture onto the widest part of each crescent roll triangle. Carefully fold over the edges and pinch them closed to seal in all that goodness—think of these as little pillows of comfort food!

Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

Brush each chicken pillow with beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish as they bake. If you want an extra crunch factor (and who doesn’t?), sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top before placing them in the oven.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your prepared chicken pillows onto the lined baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy—your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While those delicious pillows are baking away, melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour until it’s slightly golden—this creates our roux! Gradually add milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 3–5 minutes until thickened; it’s going to be so dreamy!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once those chicken pillows are beautifully golden brown, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly—if you can resist! Drizzle some of that warm creamy Parmesan sauce over them before serving hot. Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

These chicken pillows are sure to be a hit, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even better!

• Use Leftover Chicken: Using leftover cooked chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as it has had time to marinate in its own juices.

• Chill the Filling: Allowing the chicken filling to cool before assembling helps it set a little, making it easier to fill and seal the crescent dough without tearing.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the chicken mixture, such as thyme or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

• Don’t Skip the Panko: Adding panko breadcrumbs on top not only gives an extra crunch but also makes the dish visually appealing. It’s all about that texture!

• Let Them Rest: After baking, let the chicken pillows cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling firm up slightly and makes them easier to cut and serve.

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Presentation is key when it comes to making any meal feel special! Here are some ideas on how to serve these delicious chicken pillows.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add an enticing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken pillows.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers a fresh crunch that pairs nicely.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for mopping up any remaining creamy Parmesan sauce!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs add color and nutritious value to your meal.

Enjoy these chicken pillows with creamy Parmesan sauce as part of a delightful dinner experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, store them, and enjoy a delicious meal over the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh, ensure they have cooled completely before sealing the container.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken pillows to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pillow tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within the first month.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen chicken pillows in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until hot throughout.
• You can also microwave them; however, this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Do you have any questions about making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor to your filling. Just shred it and mix it according to the recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just be aware that it may slightly change the texture of your sauce.

How do I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure your flour is certified gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce as much as I do! This recipe brings comfort food to a new level with its creamy filling and crispy exterior. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve guests. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations or variations! Happy cooking!