Introduction

If you're looking for a comforting yet impressive dish to serve at dinner, Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce might just be your new favorite. These fluffy, dough-wrapped chicken pockets are filled with savory ingredients and are perfectly complemented by a rich, creamy sauce laden with garlic and Parmesan cheese.

Not only are these Chicken Pillows visually appealing, they taste incredible. With each bite, you get the satisfying crunch of golden-brown pastry, followed by tender chicken and a luscious sauce that brings everything together. This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
The shredded chicken serves as the main protein in this dish, providing a hearty and satisfying filling that forms the base flavor.
1 cup cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture, making the filling smooth and easy to spread, while also adding a tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese contributes a sharp, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the filling, creating a delightful contrast with the cream cheese.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses the filling with a warm, comforting flavor, giving an aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with chicken.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder adds depth to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile without the need for fresh onions, which would require additional preparation.
1 cup crescent roll dough
The crescent roll dough acts as a flaky, buttery wrapper, encasing the chicken filling and creating a crispy outer layer upon baking.
1/2 cup sour cream
Sour cream provides acidity and moisture to the sauce, balancing the richness of other ingredients and enhancing the overall flavor.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for creating a luxurious, thick sauce that clings beautifully to the Chicken Pillows while enriching the dish.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce, elevating its taste and giving it a sophisticated culinary touch.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh parsley not only brightens the dish with its color but also adds a refreshing herbal note that contrasts the richness of the sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning the filling and sauce with salt and pepper is crucial for enhancing all the flavors, ensuring a well-balanced and delicious dish.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial as it ensures that your Chicken Pillows will cook evenly from the beginning, leading to perfectly golden and crispy results once they're in the oven.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

This step is essential for creating the flavorful filling. Mixing these ingredients well will ensure that the flavors meld together, giving each bite a consistent taste that is deliciously rich and creamy.

Step 3: Roll out the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface, separating it into triangles.

Rolling out the dough helps to create an even surface for the filling. Separating the triangles allows you to easily fill and wrap each Chicken Pillow, ensuring they are well-sealed.

Step 4: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on the wider end of each triangle and roll it up tightly.

Carefully placing the filling at the wider end helps to center the flavors within the dough. Rolling tightly ensures that none of the filling escapes during baking, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

Step 5: Pinch the seams to seal the edges firmly and place them seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Sealing the edges is important to prevent the filling from leaking out, which could create a mess and affect the texture of the Chicken Pillows. Positioning them seam-side down allows for more even cooking.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Baking at the right temperature and time will result in a beautifully golden crust while ensuring the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking period to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: While the Chicken Pillows bake, prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce by combining sour cream, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan over medium heat.

This step is crucial for creating the sauce while the Chicken Pillows are baking. Heating these ingredients together allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt properly, resulting in a smooth and creamy sauce.

Step 8: Add garlic and season with salt and pepper. Stir well until heated through and slightly thickened.

Incorporating garlic at this stage adds its aromatic flavor to the sauce. Stirring thoroughly ensures that all the elements are well combined, leading to a rich and cohesive sauce that complements the Chicken Pillows.

Step 9: Remove the Chicken Pillows from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving with the sauce.

Allowing the Chicken Pillows to rest briefly after baking helps set their shape and makes them easier to handle. Serving them with the sauce on the side encourages your guests to personalize their meal.

Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce step photo

Elevate Your Dish with Fresh Herbs

Incorporating fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can add a burst of flavor and color to your Chicken Pillows. These herbs not only enhance the presentation of the dish but also introduce a fresh note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Experimenting with Fillings: Beyond Chicken

Feel free to get creative with the filling! Substitute chicken with beef or veggies for a different twist or add spinach and artichokes for a Mediterranean flair. This flexibility means you can cater to varying tastes and dietary preferences, making this dish versatile.

The Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken Pillows

Serve your Chicken Pillows with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. The fresh crunch of a salad perfectly contrasts the creamy texture of the sauce and chicken, creating a delightful dining experience.

FAQs

What can I do if my sauce turns out too thick?

If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by gradually adding a little more heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use leftover roasted chicken for the filling?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken is perfect for this recipe, as it adds a depth of flavor and makes the preparation process quick and easy.

What if my Chicken Pillows are leaking filling during baking?

If your Chicken Pillows are leaking, make sure to pinch the seams tightly after filling, and check if the dough is sealed properly before baking.

Can I make Chicken Pillows smaller for appetizers?

Yes! You can cut the crescent roll dough into smaller triangles to create mini Chicken Pillows, perfect for appetizers or party platters.

What should I do if my filling doesn't taste strong enough?

If you find your filling lacks flavor, feel free to add more garlic powder, or even some spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to boost the taste.

How can I ensure my Chicken Pillows bake evenly?

To ensure even baking, place the Chicken Pillows with space between them on the baking sheet, allowing hot air to circulate freely around them.

Conclusion

Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to delight everyone at your table. With the ease of preparation and the ability to customize, this dish can become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Don't hesitate to explore variations with different cheeses or seasonings to make this recipe your own. Whether it's a cozy family night or a gathering of friends, these Chicken Pillows will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Recipe Card