Name: Irresistible Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken (Use leftover rotisserie chicken for enhanced flavor); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option); 1/4 cup Chopped Chives (Green onions can be used in place); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on taste); 1/2 teaspoon Pepper (Tailor to preference); 1 package Crescent Roll Dough; 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated for best flavor); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce); 1/2 cup Chicken Broth; 2 tablespoons Butter; 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Used to thicken the sauce); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 tablespoon Cooking Spray or Melted Butter (For brushing over the dough)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the timer ticks down on a busy weeknight, something special begins to take shape in my kitchen—Easy Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. These delightful bites wrap tender shredded chicken and creamy cheese in flaky crescent dough, offering a cozy hug of comfort with every bite. What makes this recipe truly shine is its quick prep time of just 20 minutes, making it perfect for anyone searching for a homemade meal without the fuss. Not only can you customize the fillings to suit your taste, but these pills pack a flavor punch that’s sure to impress at your dinner table. Curious about how you can create this scrumptious twist on dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why are Chicken Pillows a must-try?

Customization at Its Best: Create your own unique filling and sauce combinations to cater to every taste preference, making each batch a delightful surprise.
Quick Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of prep, you can whip up these delicious Chicken Pillows even on the busiest of weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, they’re a guaranteed hit that will impress your guests.
Nostalgic Comfort: These fluffy pastries are reminiscent of home-cooked meals, promoting warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Pair them with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken for an even more satisfying experience!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling and sauce in advance for an even more efficient cooking process, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen.

Chicken Pillows Ingredients

Discover what you’ll need to bring these delicious Chicken Pillows to life!

For the Filling

Cooked Shredded Chicken – A primary protein source; using leftover rotisserie chicken adds an extra flavor boost.
Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy base; Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter option.
Chopped Chives – Adds fresh flavor and a crunchy bite; green onions work well in a pinch.
Garlic Powder – Natural enhancer for savory notes.
Onion Powder – Introduces mild sweetness and depth.
Salt – Essential seasoning; adjust based on your taste.
Pepper – Adds warmth; tailor it to your preference.

For the Dough

Crescent Roll Dough – Quick and easy to work with, forming the delightful outer layer.

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Grated Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated cheese yields the best flavor.
Heavy Cream – Creates that rich sauce texture; half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
Chicken Broth – Enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce.
Butter – Adds richness to both the filling and sauce.
All-Purpose Flour – Used to thicken your creamy delight.
Ground Nutmeg – Compliments the cheese beautifully in the sauce.

For Finishing Touches

Cooking Spray or Melted Butter – Brush over the dough for an enhanced flavor and golden finish.

Get ready to indulge in these warm, comforting Chicken Pillows—your family is sure to love them!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the Chicken Pillows from sticking. This initial step ensures that your dough bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This harmonious filling will be the delightful heart of your Chicken Pillows, so take a moment to ensure it’s well-mixed and flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Open your package of crescent roll dough and carefully separate it into triangles on a clean surface. Ensure that you lay the dough flat, keeping each triangle intact. This is where the magic happens, as you’ll soon transform these triangles into scrumptious Chicken Pillows filled with that rich mixture you prepared.

Step 4: Fill the Dough
Take about 2 tablespoons of your creamy chicken filling and place it on the wide end of each dough triangle. Gently fold the triangle over, tucking the filling inside, and pinch the edges tightly to seal in the goodness. This ensures that your delicious filling stays put while baking, creating beautiful and fluffy Chicken Pillows.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
With the filled Chicken Pillows ready, place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. To promote a golden finish, brush each pillow with melted butter or cooking spray. This step not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a luscious flavor that perfectly complements your Chicken Pillows.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want the Chicken Pillows to puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown. The wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen will let you know they’re almost ready!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the Chicken Pillows bake, start on your creamy Parmesan sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a savory sauce that will drape beautifully over your Chicken Pillows.

Step 8: Stir in the Cheese
Once your sauce has thickened, reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until the cheese melts completely, melding into the sauce and creating a rich, velvety texture. This is the moment where your sauce transforms into a deliciously creamy complement for your baked Chicken Pillows.

Step 9: Serve and Relish
Your Chicken Pillows should now be golden and flaky, ready to be drizzled with that luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. Serve your Chicken Pillows warm, either drizzled with sauce or on the side for dipping. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the comforting texture of this delightful dish!

Chicken Pillows Variations & Substitutions

Explore delightful twists and turns to customize your Chicken Pillows in a way that will tantalize your taste buds!

Turkey Filling: Swap out shredded chicken for cooked turkey for a fantastic post-holiday meal option. This ensures you can enjoy those holiday flavors all year round!
Veggie Boost: Stir in finely chopped spinach or cooked broccoli to the filling for extra nutrition. The vibrant greens add color and a hint of earthiness to these fluffy delights.
Cheesy Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or sharp cheddar to give your Chicken Pillows a new flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique flavor, making it a fun surprise every time.
Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your filling for a touch of heat. If you love spice, this simple addition will elevate the dish and awaken your taste buds.
Fresh Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the filling for a fragrant, garden-fresh touch. The herbs will elevate your Chicken Pillows, leaving everyone excited for the next bite!
Salsa Variation: Instead of the creamy sauce, use your favorite salsa for a fresher take on serving. This option brings a zesty twist that pairs beautifully with the fluffy pillows.
Dough Options: Consider using whole wheat or gluten-free dough to cater to dietary needs. These alternatives can maintain the delightful texture while accommodating everyone at the table!
Shortcut Prep: For those times when every minute counts, feel free to use pre-made fillings like store-bought buffalo chicken or spinach artichoke dip for a fun, reinvented flavor. It’s a simple way to enjoy these beauties with minimal fuss.

Feel free to get creative and make these Chicken Pillows your own! Don’t forget to serve with some Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Honey BBQ Chicken to complete your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pillows

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Pillows in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For uncooked Chicken Pillows, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 month. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for space-saving storage.

Reheating: To maintain the texture, reheat cooked Chicken Pillows in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make them soggy.

Expert Tips for Chicken Pillows

Smooth Filling: Ensure the filling is well-combined and creamy to avoid an uneven texture in the Chicken Pillows.
Sealing Technique: Pinch the edges tightly when folding the dough to prevent any filling leakage during baking.
Advance Prep: Prepare the filling and sauce ahead of time for super quick assembly during meal prep.
Baking Time Adjustments: If the pillows were chilled prior to baking, add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time to ensure they bake through completely.
Serving Temperature: Serve your Chicken Pillows hot for the best taste and texture; they retain their delightful flakiness and flavor when warm.

What to Serve with Easy Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

As you savor the delightful warmth of Chicken Pillows, elevate your meal with these enticing pairings that celebrate flavor and texture.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy Chicken Pillows, enhancing each bite with rich garlicky goodness.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds refreshing crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce while providing a delightful contrast.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender, vibrant asparagus drizzled with lemon elevates the meal with a fresh, green note, making every bite feel light yet satisfying.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting, hearty side that scoops up the luscious sauce beautifully, inviting you to indulge even further.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables brings a sweet and savory element to the table, enriching the overall experience with varied textures.
Chilled Chardonnay: Pair with a chilled Chardonnay to cut through the richness. Its crispness complements the Chicken Pillows and elevates the dining experience.
Homemade Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast and invites a fun textural delight to your comforting Chicken Pillows.
Fresh Fruit Salad: For a light, sweet finish, enjoy a fresh fruit salad to cleanse your palate and add a splash of color and sweetness to the meal.

Discover the magic of combining these sides to create a well-rounded and memorable dinner experience perfect for family or gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply combine your shredded chicken, cream cheese, and seasonings, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Also, cook the sauce and let it cool before storing, which helps maintain its velvety texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Pillows, assemble them using the prepped filling and dough, bake them fresh, and drizzle the warm sauce over the top. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures your Chicken Pillows are just as delicious as if made from scratch!

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh cooked shredded chicken, preferably leftover rotisserie chicken for added depth of flavor. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Chives should be vibrant green without any wilting—this guarantees freshness in your filling.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Pillows?
Very good question! Store any leftover Chicken Pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze uncooked Chicken Pillows?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, arrange the filled but uncooked Chicken Pillows on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my filling is too runny?
Ah, that’s a common issue! If your filling is too runny, this could be due to excess moisture in your cream cheese or chicken. To fix it, you can add a bit more cream cheese or a spoonful of flour to tighten the mixture. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a creamy, thick consistency. Always taste before adjusting seasonings!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap the crescent roll dough for a gluten-free version. Additionally, if you’re making this dish for your pets, be cautious; avoid ingredients like garlic and onion powder, as they can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always check allergies when cooking for a crowd!

Can I prepare the chicken filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the chicken filling and the creamy Parmesan sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, simply bring the filling back to room temperature for easier handling and bake as directed!