Description
These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a delightful and comforting dish, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Flaky crescent roll dough envelops a savory and creamy chicken filling, baked to golden perfection, and then drizzled with a rich and decadent Parmesan sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, making this recipe a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults. The recipe is easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients together until they are well combined and form a cohesive filling.
Step 3: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
Step 4: Place a generous tablespoon of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Roll the dough around the filling, starting from the wide end and tucking in the sides as you go, to form a pillow shape. Ensure the filling is fully enclosed to prevent leakage during baking.
Step 5: Place the chicken pillows on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each pillow with melted butter and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Step 7: While the chicken pillows are baking, prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let the sauce boil.
Step 8: Once the chicken pillows are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the top of the baked chicken pillows. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of chicken, cheese, and flaky crescent rolls is a sure winner with kids.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or use leftover cooked chicken.
- Delicious Flavor: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a rich and decadent touch that elevates the dish to another level.
- Quick Cooking Time: From preparation to baking, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Serve as an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a light soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly thinner.
- To prevent the crescent rolls from browning too quickly, tent the baking sheet with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory chicken filling, flaky crescent rolls, and rich Parmesan sauce is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the simplicity of this comforting dish!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
A: Yes, you can definitely customize the cheese in the filling. Good alternatives to cheddar cheese include mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to bake the crescent rolls just before serving to ensure they are flaky and golden brown. You can also make the sauce ahead of time.
Q3: Is there a substitute for crescent roll dough?
A: Yes, you can use puff pastry as a substitute for crescent roll dough. Puff pastry will give the pillows a flakier texture.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the chicken filling?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be great additions.
Q5: How do I store leftover chicken pillows?
A: Store leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best reheated in the oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispiness. Reheating in the microwave can make them a bit soggy.
