Name: Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (rotisserie or leftover); 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature); 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Dried Parsley (or fresh); 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred); 2 tbsp Melted Butter; 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough; 1 large Egg (beaten for egg wash); 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch); 4 tbsp Butter; 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour; 1 cup Whole Milk; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano); 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Jump to Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights is your new best friend. These delightful little pockets combine tender shredded chicken enveloped in buttery, flaky crescent dough with a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce that’s rich and velvety. Perfect for when you want something indulgent yet simple to make, this recipe brings together familiar flavors with a gourmet touch, turning any night into a special occasion.

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role to deliver that comforting, creamy, and savory magic. From the savory shredded chicken to the crispy crescent dough, every element is essential for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken: Using rotisserie or leftover chicken saves time and adds juiciness to the filling.
8 oz Cream Cheese: Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth mixing and creamy texture.
1 tsp Garlic Powder: Adds a gentle but impactful savory depth.
1 tsp Onion Powder: Complements the garlic for an enhanced aroma and taste.
1 tsp Dried Parsley: Offers a fresh herbaceous note; fresh parsley is a great substitute.
1/2 tsp Salt: Balances and brings out all flavors perfectly.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper provides a subtle spicy kick.
2 tbsp Melted Butter: Enriches the filling with smooth, buttery flavor.
1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough: Guarantees a flaky, golden crust that complements the softness inside.
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional): Sprinkled on top for an irresistible crunch.
1 large Egg: Beaten to brush the dough for a beautifully glossy, golden finish.
4 tbsp Butter: Used to make the velvety roux as the base of the sauce.
1/4 cup All-purpose Flour: Thickens the creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly.
1 cup Whole Milk: Provides body and creaminess to the sauce.
1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Adds richness to make the sauce decadently smooth.
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Real Parmigiano-Reggiano offers authentic, nutty flavor.
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Continues the flavor harmony in the sauce.
1/2 tsp Salt: Season to taste for a well-rounded creamy sauce.
1/4 tsp Black Pepper: Adds depth and a mild warmth to the sauce.

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Gather Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Having everything prepped helps you enjoy the cooking process without rush.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Mixing these until fully incorporated creates a rich, flavorful filling that becomes the heart of your Chicken Pillows.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Dough

Unroll your crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle with your hands to create an even surface for the filling to sit upon. This step ensures the pockets seal tightly and bake evenly.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pillows

Place a generous spoonful of the creamy chicken mixture in the center of every dough triangle. Carefully fold the edges over the filling and pinch them tight to seal. The goal is to keep the filling secure but maintain a fluffy, pillowy shape.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches Before Baking

Brush the tops of your filled dough pockets with the beaten egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color as they bake. For those who love a bit of extra texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Perfect

Arrange the Chicken Pillows on your prepared baking sheet with a bit of space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crescent dough is golden brown and flaky. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 7: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the pillows bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and gradually add whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a sauce that’s rich, savory, and perfectly smooth.

Step 8: Serve with Sauce Drizzled Generously

Once your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights are baked and irresistibly golden, drizzle each one with the warm creamy Parmesan sauce. This combination offers a taste and texture contrast that feels both indulgent and wonderfully comforting.

How to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of color and a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or cracked black pepper on top makes the presentation impressive and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the creaminess. A side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables complements the heavenly flavors of the Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Chicken Pillows on a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of extra Parmesan sauce for dipping. Alternatively, place them on individual plates, drizzling the sauce artistically and garnishing with colorful microgreens. This adds a gourmet touch to your cozy meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Pillows and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture for both components.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked filled Chicken Pillows by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from the freezer with a few extra minutes in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Warm the sauce gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separation, then drizzle over reheated pillows before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic and gives that nutty, savory flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different but still delicious taste. Just be mindful of the saltiness.

Is it possible to make these Chicken Pillows vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a blend of your favorite veggies combined with cream cheese and seasonings for a tasty vegetarian version.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Definitely! The filling can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on the day you plan to bake but lets the flavors marry even better.

What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?

You can use puff pastry sheets or homemade biscuit dough as alternatives. Both offer a flaky crust but may change the texture slightly, which is still delicious!

How do I make sure my pillows don’t leak during baking?

Be sure to pinch the edges tightly and avoid overfilling each dough triangle. A light brush of water or egg white on the edges before sealing can help the dough stick together better.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights is a fantastic dish to add to your culinary repertoire when you want something cozy, comforting, and impressively delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich creamy sauce, flaky pockets, and scrumptious filling, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite for dinner parties or quiet nights in. Give this recipe a try and wrap yourself in pure comfort and flavor!

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 7 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

These Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are perfect for cozy nights. Flaky crescent dough pockets filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken and cream cheese are baked to golden perfection and served with a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Mix until well incorporated and creamy.
Prepare the dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle with your hands to slightly enlarge the surface area for filling.
Fill the pillows: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center of each dough triangle.
Seal the pockets: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a pocket, pressing the seams tightly to seal and prevent filling leakage during baking.
Apply egg wash and breadcrumbs: Brush the tops of each filled pillow with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish. If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
Bake: Place the pillows on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.
Make the creamy Parmesan sauce: While baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a smooth roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Finish the sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Serve: Remove the Chicken Pillows from the oven and drizzle the warm creamy Parmesan sauce over each before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save prep time.
Room temperature cream cheese mixes more easily for a smooth filling.
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can omit them or substitute with regular breadcrumbs.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if your chicken is seasoned.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk, though sauce richness will vary.
Fresh parsley can be substituted for dried parsley for fresher flavor.
Make sure to seal the dough edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
The sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and stovetop sauce preparation
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Chicken Pillow with sauce (approx. 1 per serving if 8 servings)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 430 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0.2 g
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 17 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg