There is something irresistibly delightful about the warm, flaky exterior coupled with the creamy, flavorful filling in this Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. These bite-sized pockets of joy are filled with tender shredded chicken, smooth cream cheese, and fresh green onions, all wrapped in buttery crescent dough and coated in crisp, savory breadcrumbs. Topped with a luscious homemade Parmesan sauce that is rich, comforting, and perfectly garlicky, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser that makes any mealtime feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in creating the distinct textures and flavors that make this dish so unforgettable. From the creamy filling to the crispy coating and velvety sauce, these essentials ensure every bite is pure bliss.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders for tender, flavorful meat.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Adds dreamy creaminess that binds the filling.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Brings a fresh, mild bite that brightens the filling.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every component.
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough: The flaky wrapper that becomes perfectly golden and tender.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: For brushing the pillows, ensuring a rich finish.
- 1 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, flavorful coating.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Used for the creamy Parmesan sauce base.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid foundation for the sauce.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Adds richness without overpowering the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient in the sauce that delivers intense umami.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlic flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your pillows don’t stick and come out perfectly crisp on the bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and chopped green onions. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix everything until it’s well incorporated and creamy. This filling is the heart of your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe, so make sure it’s smooth and tasty.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. If you’re working with crescent sheets, cut the dough into squares of similar size. These will serve as cozy little envelopes to hold the delicious filling.
Step 4: Fill and Fold
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each dough piece. Fold the corners and edges up and around the filling, making sure to seal them well so the filling stays snug during baking. The shape should look like little pillows, packed with cheesy chicken goodness.
Step 5: Coating the Pillows
Brush each pillow generously with melted butter, then roll it in the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. This step adds a crunchy, flavor-packed crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the coated pillows on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing at this stage!
Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
While the pillows bake, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. Let it simmer gently until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is what makes this Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe truly decadent.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pillows are baked and the sauce is ready, spoon the warm creamy Parmesan sauce over the pillows and serve immediately. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or extra grated Parmesan add a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy Parmesan sauce. For a hint of freshness, a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or chives works beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance its richness. Consider a crisp garden salad, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. Light and colorful veggies help cut through the richness while adding nutrition and crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, arrange the Chicken Pillows on a large platter with a generous drizzle of the Parmesan sauce across the top. You can even serve the sauce on the side in a small bowl for dipping. Adding edible flowers or microgreens brings elegance and makes the dish feel extra special when sharing with guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chicken Pillows in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy Parmesan sauce separate to preserve its texture before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pillows without sauce by arranging them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Keep the sauce frozen separately in a freezer-safe container to maintain its fresh flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the pillows in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until they are crisp again. Warm the Parmesan sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to bring it back to creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken from another recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken from any cooked recipe, including rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken, works great for this recipe. Just make sure the chicken is shredded finely for easy filling.
What can I substitute for crescent roll dough?
If you don’t have crescent roll dough, puff pastry makes an excellent substitute, giving your pillows a similarly flaky and buttery texture. Just adjust baking times as needed to avoid over-browning.
Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk or any creamy plant-based milk. Use dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast for that umami flavor, and substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely! You can mix the filling and refrigerate it for up to one day ahead. This can save you time on the day you plan to bake the Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe.
How do I ensure the pillows stay sealed while baking?
Make sure to press the edges firmly when folding to seal the filling inside. Brushing the edges with a little water or egg wash before sealing can help create a better seal and keep those pillows intact.
Final Thoughts
True comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, crispy, cheesy, and savory that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite!
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Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Pillows are a decadent and flavorful appetizer or main dish featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese and green onions, wrapped in buttery crescent roll dough, coated with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection, and served with a rich Parmesan garlic sauce.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dough and Coating
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs
Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
- Prepare the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. If using crescent dough sheets, cut them into squares instead to create even portions.
- Assemble the pillows: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each dough triangle or square. Fold the corners and edges up and around the filling, sealing it completely to form a pillow-like shape.
- Coat the pillows: Brush each pillow generously with melted butter, then roll them in Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs until fully coated on all sides for a crispy texture.
- Bake: Arrange the prepared pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Parmesan sauce: While the pillows bake, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the warm Parmesan sauce over the freshly baked chicken pillows and serve immediately for a rich and indulgent meal.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds deep flavor.
- Ensure the pillows are fully sealed to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- For a crispier coating, double coat the pillows with butter and breadcrumbs.
- The Parmesan sauce can be adjusted in thickness by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding more broth for a thinner consistency.
- Leftover pillows can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
