Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Chicken Pillows, perfectly filled with a savory blend of shredded chicken and creamy goodness. Topped with a rich Parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to impress guests at your next gathering or family dinner. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, these fluffy pillows are a comforting blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Chicken Pillows are a delightful take on traditional appetizers, combining fluffy textures with vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion!
The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion
Chicken Pillows are an exciting addition to your appetizer repertoire, perfect for gatherings, parties, or family dinners. These bite-sized delights not only look impressive but also pack a flavor punch that is sure to leave your guests raving. The fluffy crescent dough envelops a savory filling, providing a perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you're entertaining a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these pillows will elevate your dining experience.
One of the best things about Chicken Pillows is their versatility. You can customize the filling based on your preferences or dietary needs. Consider swapping shredded chicken for turkey, or even experimenting with vegetables for a vegetarian version. This dish adapts beautifully, making it an easy choice for various palates and dietary restrictions. Regardless of how you decide to make them, the creamy Parmesan sauce truly ties the flavors together.
Quick and Easy Preparation
These Chicken Pillows are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in no time. The use of crescent roll dough means there's minimal fuss—no complicated layering or shaping required. Simply fill, fold, and bake! This simplicity makes them a great choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Furthermore, if you're short on time, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy, just roll out the dough, assemble the pillows, and pop them in the oven. This time-saving tip will help you impress your guests without the last-minute rush.
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
When serving Chicken Pillows, consider pairing them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. The lightness of a salad complements the rich flavors of the creamy Parmesan sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience. You might also try a tangy dipping sauce alongside for an added burst of flavor, such as a zesty marinara or ranch dressing.
For drinks, these delectable pillows pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light sparkling beverage. The effervescence of sparkling water or a fruity spritzer can cut through the richness of the sauce and balance the meal. With the right accompaniment, your Chicken Pillows will not only be a hit, but they’ll also shine in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting the cooking process to make it easier.
For the Chicken Pillows
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 package crescent roll dough
For the Parmesan Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to prepare the ingredients as indicated for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps closely to achieve the desired results for your Chicken Pillows.
Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Assemble the Pillows
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crescent dough and cut it into squares. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each square, then fold the dough over to form a pillow shape. Seal the edges.
Bake the Pillows
Place the pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Make the Parmesan Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the baked Chicken Pillows. Enjoy your delicious appetizer!
After completing the steps, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they're so tasty!), store the Chicken Pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the dough soggy and less appetizing.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked Chicken Pillows. Assemble them as directed, but do not bake. Instead, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information
Chicken Pillows are comforting and delicious, but it's also important to be mindful of their nutritional content. Each serving offers a good balance of protein from the chicken and cheese, alongside carbohydrates from the crescent dough. While they are a delightful treat, moderation is key. Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet, incorporating vegetables and whole grains into your meals throughout the day.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider adjusting the recipe by using low-fat cream cheese or substituting part of the cheese with additional vegetables. These simple swaps can help reduce calories while still delivering on taste, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy these delicious appetizers without guilt.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves prep time!
→ Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pillows and freeze them before baking.
Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful Chicken Pillows, perfectly filled with a savory blend of shredded chicken and creamy goodness. Topped with a rich Parmesan sauce, this dish is sure to impress guests at your next gathering or family dinner. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, these fluffy pillows are a comforting blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Created by: Aubrey Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Pillows
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 package crescent roll dough
For the Parmesan Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crescent dough and cut it into squares. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each square, then fold the dough over to form a pillow shape. Seal the edges.
Place the pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the baked Chicken Pillows. Enjoy your delicious appetizer!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g