Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, shredded chicken enveloped in buttery, flaky crescent roll dough, all drizzled with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Having made this dish numerous times, I can tell you it never fails to impress, whether you’re serving it at dinner or enjoying it as a weekend treat.

Why you’ll love this dish

These Chicken Pillows are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for a quick meal. Kids adore them, which means they’re a sure-fire hit at family dinners. Plus, they’re budget-friendly—using simple staples from your pantry while offering a gourmet twist. Whether you’re whipping them up for a weeknight dinner, preparing for a potluck, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish never disappoints.

“Absolutely delicious! The creamy sauce makes it feel fancy, but it’s so easy to prepare. My whole family enjoyed it!” – A happy home cook

The cooking process explained

Ready to dive into these delectable Chicken Pillows? The process is straightforward and can be tackled in just a few simple steps. First, you’ll prepare the chicken mixture, then roll it into the crescent dough, and finally bake to golden perfection. Don’t forget about that creamy Parmesan sauce—it’s what takes this dish from good to unforgettable.

What you’ll need

Gather these items for a successful cooking experience:

2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken
8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Dried Parsley
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
2 tbsp Melted Butter
1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
1 large Egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the creamy sauce:

4 tbsp Butter
1/4 cup All-purpose Flour
1 cup Whole Milk
1/2 cup Heavy Cream
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Note: Feel free to substitute leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for a time-saving version!

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Add a spoonful of the chicken mixture to the wider end of each triangle.
Roll up the triangles from the wide end to the tip to form a pillow shape, pinching the edges to seal.
If desired, dip each pillow in melted butter and coat with Panko breadcrumbs for added texture.
Place the pillows on a greased baking sheet and brush them with the beaten egg.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
For the creamy sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir in flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk and cream.
Once thickened, add in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Serve the Chicken Pillows drizzled with the creamy sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Chicken Pillows are perfect for an elegant dinner party, but they also work wonderfully for casual family meals. Serve them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a more indulgent approach, pair them with garlic bread and your favorite wine.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten Chicken Pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Just ensure they’re tightly wrapped in foil or freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen for an extra few minutes.

Helpful cooking tips

Make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the chicken mixture.
Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique flavor twist.
For extra crunch, bake the pillows without the cream sauce and drizzle it on right before serving.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can add spinach for a pop of color and nutrients, or swap out the chicken for cooked vegetables to make a delicious vegetarian version. Cheese lovers might enjoy adding mozzarella or cheddar to the filling for an extra cheesy bite.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes another 20-25 minutes, so you can have dinner on the table in under an hour!
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese—just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.
How do I know when the creamy sauce is done?
The sauce should be thick and bubbly. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.

Ready to indulge in these comforting Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce? Your kitchen is about to become the setting for an unforgettable culinary experience!