Chicken Pillows are a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crescent dough. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. You will enjoy the crispy outer layer and the cheesy, savory filling that makes Chicken Pillows a hit for all ages.
Why We Love This Chicken Pillows Recipe
There’s something so satisfying about biting into a warm chicken pillow. The balance of flavors from the garlic and onion powders complements the rich cream cheese and mozzarella, creating an irresistible filling. Plus, using crescent roll dough makes preparation straightforward and enjoyable. You can have this dish ready in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. The best part is that you can customize the filling to suit your taste, ensuring each bite is a wonderful experience.
Ingredients about Chicken Pillows
To create your delicious Chicken Pillows, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can of crescent roll dough
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Chicken Pillows Directions
Creating Chicken Pillows is simple and fun! Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s hot and ready for your delightful creation. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well incorporated and creamy.
Next, unroll your can of crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Each triangle will become a cozy pocket for your delicious filling. Take a spoonful of your chicken mixture and place it at the wide end of each triangle. Carefully roll the triangle over the filling, sealing the edges as you go. The goal is to create little pillows of goodness that will hold all that creamy filling inside!
Once your chicken pillows are rolled up, arrange them on a greased baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one. Now, it’s time to prepare a creamy sauce to drizzle over the top. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. This rich sauce will add an extra layer of deliciousness to your pillows.
Drizzle the creamy sauce evenly over each chicken pillow, and then pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake them for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is flaky. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone to come and take a peek.
Once they’re done baking, allow the Chicken Pillows to cool for a few moments before garnishing them with some fresh parsley. This step adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to your dish. Now, you’re ready to serve and enjoy this scrumptious meal!
How to Serve Chicken Pillows
When it comes to serving Chicken Pillows, presentation can elevate the experience. Place the freshly baked pillows on a large serving platter, drizzling any remaining creamy sauce from the baking sheet over the top. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and garnish.
Chicken Pillows pair wonderfully with a light salad or some steamed vegetables. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pillows perfectly. Alternatively, serve them with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal. You can also offer dipping sauces such as ranch or marinara for added flavor and fun!
These delightful pillows are perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even as part of a fun game night spread. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy for guests to eat, and the creamy, cheesy filling ensures a happy crowd.
Expert Tips: Chicken Pillows
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, consider using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and shredded, making it a quick option for busy days.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add some cayenne pepper for a little kick or toss in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: When adding filling to the crescent roll triangles, be cautious not to overfill them. This can lead to messy pillows and filling spilling out during baking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh parsley and high-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients will elevate the overall flavor of your Chicken Pillows.
- Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pillows as they bake. Ovens can vary, so it’s important to ensure they don’t burn. You want that perfect golden brown!
How to Store Chicken Pillows
Storing your Chicken Pillows is easy. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to store Chicken Pillows for longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer in a freezer bag or container, ensuring they do not touch each other, to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help keep the flaky texture intact.
Variation of Chicken Pillows
There are countless ways to customize your Chicken Pillows to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some tasty variations you might enjoy:
- Veggie Chicken Pillows: Add some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to your chicken filling for a veggie twist. This not only adds flavor but also packs in extra nutrients.
- Spicy Chicken Pillows: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to your mix for a spicy version. The heat will balance beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Buffalo Chicken Pillows: Mix in some buffalo sauce into the chicken filling for an exciting flavor. Serve them with blue cheese dip for a true buffalo experience.
- Cheddar Chicken Pillows: Instead of mozzarella, you can substitute shredded cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor. Mixing both cheeses can also yield delicious results.
- Low-Carb Option: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can use low-carb wrap instead of crescent roll dough. This would make them more suitable for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
FAQ
What is the secret to making perfect Chicken Pillows?
The secret to making perfect Chicken Pillows lies in the balance of flavors in the filling and ensuring the crescent roll dough is rolled tightly enough to hold everything together without overstuffing. Properly incorporating your ingredients will give you a creamy, flavorful filling that complements the flaky dough beautifully.
Can I use leftover chicken to make Chicken Pillows?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is ideal for making Chicken Pillows. Just shred the cooked chicken and mix it with your cream cheese and spices, and you’re good to go. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken from previous meals.
How long do Chicken Pillows last?
Chicken Pillows can last in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing.
Can I prepare Chicken Pillows ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Chicken Pillows ahead of time by assembling them and placing them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap or foil until you’re ready to bake them. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the refrigerator.
What should I serve with Chicken Pillows?
Chicken Pillows pair well with a variety of side dishes. A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread are excellent companions. You can also prepare a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for an extra touch. Choose sides that complement the rich and creamy nature of the pillows.
Chicken Pillows
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dough
- 1 can crescent roll dough
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated and creamy.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle and roll it, sealing the edges to create pillows.
- Arrange the rolled Chicken Pillows on a greased baking sheet.
Sauce Preparation
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until smooth.
Baking
- Drizzle the creamy sauce over the Chicken Pillows.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is flaky.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.
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