Indulge in Chicken Pillows

These chicken pillows with creamy Parmesan sauce transform simple ingredients into a comforting family meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The flaky crescent dough wraps around a savory chicken and cream cheese filling, creating perfect little bundles that are then smothered in a rich, homemade Parmesan sauce.

I started making these chicken pillows when looking for creative ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken. Now my family requests them at least twice a month, especially on chilly evenings when we need something truly satisfying.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: ensures a tender filling that blends perfectly with the cream cheese
• Room temperature cream cheese: creates a smooth, creamy texture that binds everything together
• Crescent roll dough: provides a quick shortcut to flaky, golden pastry without the fuss
• Panko breadcrumbs: add a delightful crunch to the exterior that contrasts with the creamy filling
• Parmesan cheese: gives the sauce a nutty, salty depth that elevates the entire dish
• Heavy cream: creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pillows

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your workspace:

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having everything ready before you start assembly makes the process much more enjoyable and efficient.

Create the filling:

Combine the shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, pepper, and melted butter in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a uniform consistency. The warm melted butter helps soften the cream cheese further, making everything blend more easily.

Form the pillows:

Roll out the crescent dough and cut into squares approximately 4 inches across. Place a generous tablespoon of filling in the center of each square, being careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to create a triangle or square shape and firmly press the edges to seal completely. If the dough feels sticky, lightly flour your fingertips.

Add the finishing touches:

Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush each pillow generously with the egg wash. This creates a beautiful golden color during baking. If using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the egg washed surface, gently pressing to adhere. The egg acts as a glue to hold the crumbs in place.

Bake to perfection:

Place the prepared pillows on your parchment lined baking sheet, allowing about an inch between each one for expansion. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning. Look for a rich golden color and firm texture that indicates the dough is cooked through.

Make the Parmesan sauce:

While the pillows bake, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a pale golden paste. This roux is the foundation of your sauce. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, continuing to whisk until smooth and velvety.

Serve immediately:

Remove the golden pillows from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Generously spoon the warm Parmesan sauce over each pillow or serve it on the side for dipping. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy filling is absolutely divine when enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Save

The secret to these pillows is definitely the cream cheese. I discovered its transformative power years ago when I was trying to make my chicken filling more interesting. Now I always keep a block in my refrigerator specifically for this recipe. My husband claims he would eat the filling alone with a spoon if I let him!

Make-Ahead Options

These chicken pillows are perfect for busy weeknights because you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the pillows, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator. The sauce is best made fresh just before serving, but you can prepare all the measured ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Customization Ideas

The basic recipe provides an excellent foundation for countless variations. Try adding diced red peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra color and flavor. Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, Swiss, or sharp cheddar mixed into the filling. For a more complex flavor profile, add chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage. You can even create a buffalo chicken version by adding hot sauce to the filling and serving with a blue cheese sauce instead of the Parmesan sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken pillows make a complete meal when paired with the right sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pillows. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to the plate. For a heartier meal, serve alongside buttered egg noodles that can soak up extra Parmesan sauce. If serving for a special occasion, consider a starter of light soup like tomato bisque or chicken broth with herbs.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the chicken pillows ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken pillows up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them uncooked. When ready to serve, simply bake them for a few extra minutes. The Parmesan sauce is best made fresh just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

→ What's the best way to shred chicken for this dish?

For the smoothest filling, use two forks to shred warm, cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed for perfectly shredded chicken in seconds.

→ Can I freeze these chicken pillows?

Absolutely! Freeze them after assembly but before baking. Place them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make the sauce fresh when serving.

→ What can I serve with chicken pillows?

These pillows pair beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus. The rich sauce complements lighter sides, creating a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

→ How can I thicken the Parmesan sauce if it's too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, continue simmering it while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and gradually whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce until thickened.

→ Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?

Yes, puff pastry makes an excellent substitute for crescent roll dough in this recipe. Cut it into similar-sized squares and follow the same assembly instructions. The result will be even flakier, though baking time may need slight adjustment.