Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Imagine biting through a flaky, buttery exterior to discover a luscious, savory chicken filling topped with a rich, velvety sauce—Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is every bit as dreamy and comforting as it sounds. This dish combines the ease of crescent roll dough with a luxurious homemade sauce, creating a weeknight dinner (or a showstopping brunch) that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Elegant yet soul-warming, this recipe is the kind of happy little secret you’ll want to share with friends and family whenever you need something impressive, cozy, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is how it brings together pantry staples for a dish that tastes like a special occasion. Every ingredient here plays a role in creating the perfect bite—creamy, savory, golden, and just the right amount of cheesy.
- Cooked and shredded chicken (2 cups): Use rotisserie chicken for an extra juicy and flavorful shortcut.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Gives the filling its signature creamy, dreamy texture.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds an aromatic depth that mingles perfectly with the chicken.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Brings gentle warmth and savory goodness.
- Dried parsley (½ teaspoon): For a pop of color and fresh, herby brightness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together and heightens the overall taste.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the filling.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Makes the filling extra rich and adds moisture.
- Crescent roll dough (1 tube, 8-count): The secret to those irresistible, fluffy pillows.
- Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): For a crispy, golden topping with extra crunch.
- Egg, beaten (1): Creates that gorgeous, glossy finish on each pillow.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): The base for our creamy Parmesan sauce.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce and gives it body.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Provides a creamy foundation for the sauce without making it heavy.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): The key to that lush, luxurious sauce finish.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (¾ cup): An absolute must for flavor and richness in the sauce.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Lends another layer of garlicky goodness to the sauce.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the other sauce ingredients.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds that final touch of warmth in the creamy sauce.
How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start your kitchen adventure by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this trick not only prevents sticking but makes cleanup a breeze so you can focus solely on the magic you’re about to create.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Grab a big bowl and combine your shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and the melted butter. Mix until everything is well incorporated and luscious—you’re looking for a creamy texture where every bite promises tender chicken and smooth, herby flavor.
Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough
Gently unroll your crescent dough and separate it into eight triangles. Use your hands or a rolling pin to lightly flatten and widen each triangle a bit—the extra surface area ensures the filling fits snugly without overflowing.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows
Spoon a generous amount of the creamy chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle, then fold the dough over the filling. Pinch all the edges together carefully; you want to lock in all that flavor and create perfectly shaped pillows that are ready for baking.
Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs
Brush the tops of each pillow with a beaten egg for a beautiful, glossy finish. For that restaurant-style crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top—this step adds a lovely contrast with the delicate dough.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Arrange the sealed and coated pillows on your prepared baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp—your kitchen will fill with the most enticing aroma!
Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
While your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are baking, start your sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for a minute until it smells nutty. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and beginning to thicken. Add the Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the sauce is creamy, glossy, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When your chicken pillows are golden and irresistibly fragrant, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle each pillow with plenty of creamy Parmesan sauce and serve them hot—this is where good food dreams truly come true.
How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives not only adds a bright pop of color but also brings a touch of herbaceous freshness to balance the creamy, cheesy sauce. If you want to dial up the visual drama, try a few shavings of Parmesan on top just before serving for instant wow-factor.
Side Dishes
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce shine alongside simple side salads tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or tender green beans toasted with almonds. For an extra-comforting meal, pair with buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy garlic rice that soak up every last drop of the Parmesan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Invite fun to the table by serving the pillows family-style on a big platter with a pitcher of extra sauce for drizzling. For a brunch gathering, cut each pillow in half and arrange on a board with fresh fruit and roasted vegetables. Or, try stacking the pillows over a bed of herbed greens for a bistro-inspired presentation that’s guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), place the chicken pillows in an airtight container. Store the sauce separately in a covered jar—this helps keep everything at its best. Both will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a wonderful grab-and-go lunch for tomorrow.
Freezing
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce freeze surprisingly well, especially if you hold off on adding the sauce until after reheating. Wrap each cooled pillow tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer bag; store flat for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Reheating
To bring your chicken pillows back to crispy, fluffy perfection, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through. Gently warm the creamy Parmesan sauce on the stovetop over low heat, whisking as you go, and drizzle just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in place of chicken for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce, making this a great recipe for post-holiday meals or using up cooked poultry in your fridge.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, whisking until smooth, before serving over your chicken pillows.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
If you love a veggie boost, try folding in finely chopped cooked broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms alongside the chicken. Just make sure the vegetables are cooked and free of excess moisture for the best texture.
What’s the best way to keep the pillows sealed?
Make sure not to overfill the crescent dough triangles and pinch all the edges firmly together—pressing gently with your fingers or even a fork helps lock in the filling so each Chicken Pillow bakes up beautifully intact.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
You can use gluten-free crescent dough if available and substitute the all-purpose flour in the sauce with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the ingredients for Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are naturally gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is pure comfort wrapped in golden pastry and topped with the silkiest sauce. If you haven’t tried them yet, now’s your chance—invite your loved ones, gather around the table, and get ready to savor every bite.
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Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy dinner. These pillows are made with shredded chicken and a creamy filling, wrapped in crescent roll dough, and served with a rich Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Pillows:
- 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)
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling. Mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, pepper, and melted butter.
- Step 3: Roll Out the Crescent Dough. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.
- Step 4: Fill and Seal the Chicken Pillows. Spoon chicken mixture onto each triangle, fold edges over, and seal.
- Step 5: Coat with Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs. Brush with egg wash and add breadcrumbs.
- Step 6: Bake Until Golden. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce. Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk, cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and simmer until thick.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken pillows and serve.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken pillow with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Pillows, Creamy Parmesan Sauce, Crescent Roll Chicken, Comfort Food
