Pin it These Decadent Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender shredded chicken and a rich blend of cheeses tucked inside a golden, flaky crust. Wrapped in buttery crescent dough and finished with a savory garlic-infused glaze, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an irresistibly indulgent main course that is sure to become a family favorite.
Pin it Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, these pillows are satisfyingly filling while remaining remarkably easy to assemble. The contrast between the crisp exterior and the warm, cheesy center makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients
- Filling: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded), 1 cup cream cheese (softened), 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, salt and pepper to taste.
- Dough: 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count).
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce: ½ cup unsalted butter (melted), 2 cloves garlic (minced), ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped).
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Mix Filling
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Step 3: Prepare Dough
- Unroll crescent roll dough and separate into 8 triangles.
- Step 4: Assemble Pillows
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal, forming pillow shapes.
- Step 5: Arrange
- Arrange chicken pillows on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Step 6: Prepare Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Step 7: Glaze
- Brush the tops of each pillow generously with the garlic Parmesan mixture.
- Step 8: Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Step 9: Cool
- Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Step 10: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor and convenience, substitute rotisserie chicken. To ensure the pillows stay sealed, make sure the cream cheese is softened enough to blend smoothly with the other filling ingredients before assembly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To create a lighter version of this dish, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella. For a boost of color and nutrition, try adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken filling mixture.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these savory chicken pillows with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with a light dipping sauce or a side of marinara.
Pin it Enjoy these warm, golden pillows as a satisfying main course that combines the ease of a quick meal with the rich, savory flavors of a home-cooked classic.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of dough is best for these pillows?
Refrigerated crescent roll dough works best due to its flaky texture and ease of shaping pillows.
- → Can I use different cheeses in the filling?
Yes, mozzarella and cream cheese create creaminess, but you can add or substitute cheeses like provolone or gouda for variation.
- → How can I ensure the pillows don’t leak during baking?
Pinch the dough edges firmly to seal the filling inside and avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.
- → What is the purpose of the garlic Parmesan sauce?
The sauce adds a rich, buttery garlic flavor and a savory Parmesan finish that enhances the overall taste and browning.
- → Can these pillows be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving to maintain freshness and flakiness.