Description
Tender Chicken Pillows are soft, golden-baked pastry bundles filled with a creamy mixture of shredded chicken and cheese, served with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This comforting main dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Pillow Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken pillows.
- Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Dough: Separate the refrigerated crescent roll dough into rectangles and press the seams firmly together to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Fill Dough: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each dough rectangle, ensuring an even distribution for each pillow.
- Shape Pillows: Fold the dough over the filling to form sealed pillow shapes, pinching the edges securely to lock in the filling.
- Coat Pillows: Dip each pillow in melted butter, then roll in breadcrumbs to give a crispy golden crust when baked.
- Bake Pillows: Arrange the coated pillows on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
- Make Sauce Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, then simmer the sauce until it thickens to desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the baked chicken pillows and generously drizzle or serve alongside the creamy Parmesan sauce for dipping. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken simplifies preparation and adds great flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition and taste.
- Ensure the dough seams are well sealed to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- The Parmesan sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
