why make this recipe
This recipe is quick and tasty. You get soft baked pillows filled with chicken and cream cheese. The sauce is creamy and cheesy. It works for family meals or a small party. If you like thick, creamy soups you might also enjoy a similar soup like creamy chicken tortilla soup for a starter.
introduction
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are warm, cheesy, and easy to make. The crescent dough bakes light and golden. The filling is simple and comforting. The Parmesan sauce adds a rich touch and makes each bite smooth. You can serve this with a small soup or salad, such as a rich bowl of creamy lasagna soup for a fuller meal.
how to make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Make the filling first. Then shape and bake the pillows. Last, make the sauce and pour it over the warm pillows. Work step by step and keep the filling chilled until you are ready to fill the dough. For a side dish idea, a warm, creamy soup like creamy mushroom soup pairs well.
Ingredients :
Crescent roll dough, Shredded cooked chicken, Cream cheese, Garlic powder, Shredded Parmesan cheese, Butter, Flour, Chicken broth, Italian seasoning
Directions :
In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to make the filling.
Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle, then fold and seal.
Place on a greased baking sheet.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in shredded Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve chicken pillows with the creamy Parmesan sauce poured over them.
how to serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Serve warm on a plate. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the pillows or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. For a cozy combo, serve with a bowl of creamy bacon potato soup.
how to store Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Cool to room temperature before storing. Put the pillows and sauce in separate airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sauce in a saucepan and bake the pillows at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until hot and crisp. Do not leave at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Use fully cooked chicken so the filling is ready fast. Chill the filling slightly if it gets too soft when handling. Seal the edges well so the filling does not leak. For a smoother sauce, whisk constantly while adding broth. For extra flavor, add a little extra Parmesan. If you like smoky taste, try a side like creamy cowboy soup with bacon.
variation (if any)
You can add chopped spinach or cooked mushrooms to the filling for more veggies. Swap cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter taste. Use puff pastry instead of crescent dough for a flakier pillow. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Try serving with different creamy sides like creamy chicken tortilla soup or the other soups mentioned above for variety. (Note: links above are to related recipes.)
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the baked pillows?
A: Yes. Freeze baked pillows in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use within 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and cool it. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and stir until smooth.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded chicken from a rotisserie?
A: Yes. Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
Q: What if my sauce is too thin?
A: Simmer it a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. If needed, mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with cold water and whisk into the sauce until it thickens.
Q: Can I bake the pillows longer for extra crisp?
A: Yes. Add a few more minutes, but watch so they do not burn.
Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to make the filling.
- Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle, then fold and seal.
- Place on a greased baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps, and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in shredded Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve chicken pillows with the creamy Parmesan sauce poured over them.