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Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

4.4 from 57 reviews

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are flaky crescent dough pockets stuffed with a savory mixture of shredded chicken and cream cheese, topped with a rich, homemade creamy Parmesan sauce. This comforting and flavorful dish combines a crisp golden crust with a smooth, cheesy sauce, perfect for an easy yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Pillows Filling

  • 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for a quick prep)
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese (Best at room temperature for easy mixing)
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Dried Parsley (Fresh can be used if available)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt (Adjust according to your taste preferences)
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground offers a stronger kick)
  • 2 tbsp Melted Butter (Adds a delightful richness)

For the Dough

  • 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough (Provides a flaky and buttery crust)
  • 1 large Egg (Beaten for the egg wash)
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional for extra crunch)

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  • 4 tbsp Butter (For the roux)
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour (Thickens the sauce beautifully)
  • 1 cup Whole Milk (Creates the creamy sauce base)
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Adds richness)
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano is best)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder (For flavor balance)
  • 1/2 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (For depth in the sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the chicken pillows.
  2. Prepare Chicken Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and evenly combined.
  3. Prepare Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle with your hands to make them easier to fill and seal.
  4. Fill the Dough: Place a generous spoonful of the creamy chicken filling in the center of each triangle to ensure each pillow is well-stuffed.
  5. Seal the Pillows: Fold the dough edges over the filling, carefully sealing all seams tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
  6. Add Toppings: Brush the tops of the filled Chicken Pillows with the beaten egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for added crunch.
  7. Bake: Arrange the prepared pillows on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Make the Sauce Roux: While baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  9. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
  10. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  11. Serve: Once the Chicken Pillows are golden brown and out of the oven, drizzle the warm creamy Parmesan sauce over each pillow before serving for a rich, flavorful finish.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy top, brushing with egg wash and sprinkling panko breadcrumbs enhances texture.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to mix smoothly with the shredded chicken.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting quality in the sauce.
  • Adjust salt and pepper in both filling and sauce to suit your taste preferences.
  • Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly to reduce prep time.
  • To keep the pillows sealed, pinch dough edges tightly or use a fork to crimp the seams.

Keywords: Chicken Pillows, Creamy Parmesan Sauce, Crescent Roll Recipes, Stuffed Chicken, Easy Appetizer, Comfort Food