Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce have been a staple in our family for as long as I can remember. I still picture my mom bustling around the kitchen, her laughter filling the air as she prepared these delightful little pockets of goodness. Each pillow was filled with creamy, cheesy chicken and wrapped in a golden crust that made my mouth water just thinking about it. It's one of those recipes that brings everyone together, and they always come back for seconds (or thirds!).

This dish is perfect for cozy evenings when you want something comforting yet simple to whip up. Whether it's a chilly fall night or a busy weeknight dinner, Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce provide that sense of home and warmth that makes the heart smile. Trust me, once you make these, they'll quickly become a favorite in your household too!

Why You'll Love "Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce"

• Quick prep time of just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
• Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will adore.
• Freezer-friendly; make a big batch and store some for later!
• Comforting flavors that bring warmth and happiness to the dinner table.
• Deliciously topped with a creamy Parmesan sauce that elevates the dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tubes (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
• ¼ cup melted butter (about 60g)
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (about 60g)

• For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter (about 60g)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (about 30g)
• 2 cups chicken broth (about 480ml)
• 1 cup milk (about 240ml)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tip: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience; it saves time and gives great flavor! If you can't find Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs with a sprinkle of Italian herbs will work just fine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an essential step to ensure the chicken pillows bake perfectly and become golden brown.

Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1 package of softened cream cheese, and ¼ cup of chopped green onions.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it really brings out the flavors!
3. Mix everything together until well blended. You want a creamy, smooth filling that's bursting with flavor.

Assemble the Pillows

1. Unroll the 2 tubes of refrigerated crescent rolls and separate them into triangles on a clean surface.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the wider end of each triangle. Don't overload them, or they might burst open!
3. Starting at the wide end, roll the triangle up towards the point, tucking in the sides as you go to create a pillow shape. Pinch the edges to seal them well.
4. Dip each pillow in ¼ cup of melted butter, making sure they're nicely coated.
5. Next, roll the buttered pillows in 1 cup of Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring they're evenly covered. This will give them a lovely crispy texture when baked.

Bake the Pillows

1. Place the prepared pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they're golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them; no one likes burnt pillows!

Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. While the pillows are baking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, stir in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute. This will create a roux that thickens your sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, cooking until it thickens up nicely, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it melt into that creamy goodness.
6. Once the chicken pillows are done baking, plate them up and drizzle that luscious creamy Parmesan sauce over the top. Enjoy the smiles around the table!

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the chicken filling.
• Try using shredded rotisserie turkey for a delightful twist during the holidays.
• Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
• Use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls for an elegant presentation.
• Incorporate chopped spinach or artichokes into the filling for added flavor and nutrients.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve the Chicken Pillows warm, drizzled generously with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. They also make fantastic appetizers for gatherings!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 2 months; just bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful Notes

• Feel free to swap out the green onions for chives or shallots for a different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese and milk.
• Adding a pinch of garlic powder to the chicken mixture can elevate the flavor.
• For those with gluten sensitivities, consider using gluten-free crescent rolls and breadcrumbs.
• Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a fun twist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it into your filling as usual.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just swap the crescent rolls for gluten-free crescent rolls and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without worry!

Final Thoughts

I hope you're as excited to try these Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce as I am to share them! They truly embody the spirit of comfort food, perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy night in with the family. Don't worry if your pillows aren't perfectly shaped; it's all about the love you put into them. So gather your ingredients, laugh a little, and enjoy the process. I can't wait for you to taste them and see the smiles they bring to your table. Happy cooking, friend!