Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce

These Stuffed Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Cream Sauce are a delicious, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. The savory filling of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella wrapped in flaky crescent dough pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Each bite is warm, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying!

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can crescent roll dough (8 count)

For the Parmesan Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Pillows
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until well blended.

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each triangle. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal it completely. Place the chicken pillows on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken Pillows
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce
While the chicken pillows are baking, prepare the Parmesan sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Serve
Serve the warm chicken pillows with a generous drizzle of the Parmesan cream sauce on top, garnishing with additional chopped green onions if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: These chicken pillows are best served hot with plenty of sauce for dipping. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked, filled crescent rolls. Place them on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Helpful Notes:

Sauce Thickness: If the Parmesan sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble and bake.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs:

Ina Garten: “For extra depth in the sauce, add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to complement the Parmesan.”
Gordon Ramsay: “Always cook out the raw flavor of the flour in the roux by whisking for a minute or two before adding the liquid. This will give you a smooth, rich sauce.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cheese for the filling?
Yes! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese would work well in the filling for a different flavor profile.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may not be as rich and thick.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of roasted vegetables.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe and adds extra flavor.
Can I add herbs to the sauce?
Yes, fresh thyme or parsley would add a nice touch to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.

These Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Sauce are cozy, flavorful, and easy to make, making them a perfect meal for any night of the week. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness in every bite!