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 recommended); 2 tbsp Melted Butter; 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough; 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional); 1 large Egg (beaten for egg wash); 4 tbsp Butter; 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour; 1 cup Whole Milk; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred); 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste); 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, look no further than Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights. This delightful recipe combines flaky, buttery crescent roll pockets filled with a luscious, savory chicken and cream cheese mixture, all draped in a silky, homemade Parmesan sauce that’s rich and comforting. Whether you’re settling in for a quiet night or impressing friends with a comforting twist on classic flavors, these Chicken Pillows bring joy with every bite and make those cozy nights truly unforgettable.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—from the tender shredded chicken that provides hearty substance, to the creamy mixture that binds everything together, and finally the crescent roll dough, which delivers a flaky, buttery envelope that encases the delicious filling perfectly.

2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken: Using rotisserie or leftover chicken makes prep quick and adds juicy, seasoned meat.
8 oz Cream Cheese: At room temperature for the easiest blending and smoothest texture.
1 tsp Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
1 tsp Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild sweetness.
1 tsp Dried Parsley: Provides a hint of fresh, herbaceous brightness.
1/2 tsp Salt: Adjust to your taste to balance the flavors.
1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best for a sharp, aromatic kick.
2 tbsp Melted Butter: Adds richness that makes the filling irresistible.
1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough: This flaky and buttery dough forms the perfect pillowy crust.
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional): For an extra golden, crunchy topping.
1 large Egg: Beaten to create a beautiful egg wash for a glossy finish.
4 tbsp Butter: Used in making the creamy Parmesan sauce’s roux base.
1/4 cup All-purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce to silky perfection.
1 cup Whole Milk: The creamy foundation of the sauce.
1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Adds a luscious richness to the sauce’s texture.
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano delivers that unmistakable sharp, savory taste.
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Balances flavors in the sauce with gentle warmth.
1/2 tsp Salt: Season the sauce to taste.
1/4 tsp Black Pepper: Adds subtle depth and complexity to the sauce.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Filling

First things first: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Chicken Pillows bake evenly and release effortlessly. In a large mixing bowl, blend the shredded chicken with room temperature cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. This creamy filling is the heart of your Chicken Pillows and bursting with flavor — it’s what will make this dish your new go-to comfort food.

Step 2: Shape the Pillows

Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle with your hands, creating an even base for your filling. Spoon a generous dollop of your creamy chicken mixture into the center of each triangle. Folding the dough edges up and over the filling, pinch the seams securely to create those signature pockets that will keep the melty goodness inside while baking.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches Before Baking

Brush the tops of each Chicken Pillow with beaten egg to give them that gorgeous golden color and irresistible sheen. If you like a little extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over each pillow now — they toast beautifully in the oven, adding texture that pairs perfectly with the flaky dough and creamy filling.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

Arrange your pillows on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The aroma at this stage is downright irresistible and will have everyone at the table eagerly awaiting their turn.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the pillows bake, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat to create the base of your sauce. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute or two to form a smooth roux—this will thicken your sauce beautifully. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is silky, rich, and perfectly seasoned.

Step 6: Serve with Warm Sauce

As soon as your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights are piping hot and golden, drizzle the luscious Parmesan sauce over each one. This final touch elevates the dish, making every bite creamy, cheesy, and downright dreamy—perfect for savoring on any chilly evening.

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

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few grinds of black pepper on top adds a fresh pop of color and brightness. For a bit of extra flair, you might even dust with some finely grated extra Parmesan to lean into the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli add a vibrant contrast and keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting friends or family, arrange the Chicken Pillows on a large platter with small bowls of extra creamy Parmesan sauce for dipping. Alternatively, serve each pillow on individual plates drizzled artistically with sauce and garnished with microgreens for an elegant touch that still feels warm and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a perfect option for quick reheated meals during busy weekdays.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the unbaked pillows on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Freeze the Parmesan sauce separately in a freezer-safe container to keep its texture intact.

Reheating

Reheat the pillows in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve the flaky crust and warm the filling through. Microwave reheating can make the crust soggy, so the oven is worth the extra few minutes. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring to maintain that creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is ideal for making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights because it’s already cooked and packed with flavor, saving you time in prep.

Is crescent roll dough the best option for the pillows?

Crescent roll dough works perfectly because it bakes up flaky and buttery, creating that signature pillow texture. You could experiment with puff pastry, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken and cream cheese filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This makes assembly quick and stress-free when you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for cream cheese if needed?

If you don’t have cream cheese, ricotta cheese or mascarpone can be used as substitutes, though the texture will be a bit lighter and less tangy.

How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights are mild and comforting by nature, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling or sauce to give it a gentle kick.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights are a true comfort food treasure that brings warmth and smiles to the table every time. Rich, flaky, and bursting with creamy savory goodness, this recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves dishes that feel like home. So grab your crescent dough, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a cozy, delicious night in—you won’t regret it!

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Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 11 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8–10 Chicken Pillows 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cozy nights. Flaky crescent roll dough pockets are filled with a savory blend of shredded chicken and cream cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce, these pillows make an irresistible appetizer or main course.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Make Chicken Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the filling is creamy and well blended.
Prepare Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle with your hands to create a smooth surface for the filling.
Fill Dough Triangles: Place a generous spoonful of the creamy chicken filling in the center of each triangle. Be careful not to overfill to prevent leakage during baking.
Seal Chicken Pillows: Fold the dough edges over the filling and press the seams tightly to form pockets, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
Apply Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs: Brush the tops of each filled Chicken Pillow with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish. If using, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy texture.
Bake: Arrange the pillows on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Prepare Parmesan Sauce: While the pillows bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well until the cheese melts completely into the sauce.
Serve: Once the Chicken Pillows are baked golden, drizzle the warm creamy Parmesan sauce over each pillow before serving, enhancing their rich flavor.

Notes

Use rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
Room temperature cream cheese blends better and ensures a smooth filling.
Panko breadcrumbs are optional but add a nice crunchy top layer.
Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese gives the most authentic flavor to the Parmesan sauce.
For a richer sauce, you can substitute some or all whole milk with more heavy cream.
Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.

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