Looking for a tasty dish that’s quick and easy? Try these Savory Chicken Pillows with Cream Cheese! This recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy cheeses, and crunchy crescent roll dough for a meal everyone will love. In this article, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create these fluffy pillows. Perfect for dinner or as a snack, you won’t want to miss this delicious dish! Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package of crescent roll dough
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
To make savory chicken pillows, you need a few key items. The main ingredients are cooked chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and crescent roll dough. These items create a rich and creamy filling.
Seasonings add flavor. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and salt and pepper bring everything together.
You will also need grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy top. A beaten egg helps bind the pillows and gives them a nice glaze.
Gather these ingredients for a tasty treat. They combine to make each bite a creamy delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the pillows from sticking.
Mixing the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Pillows
- Roll out the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Pinch the seams to form a large rectangle.
- Cut the dough into 4-inch by 4-inch squares.
- Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square.
- Fold the corners of the dough over the filling. Pinch the seams to seal them tightly.
Baking Instructions
- Place the filled pillows on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Check for doneness by looking for a nice, golden color on top.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get the best dough texture, use cold crescent roll dough. Cold dough rolls out smoother. If it's warm, it might stick. Pinch the seams well. This keeps the filling from leaking out. If you find any holes, seal them with a little extra dough.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your chicken pillows with fresh parsley. It adds color and flavor. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. For dipping, marinara sauce is a great choice. It pairs nicely with the cheesy filling. You can try ranch or garlic sauce too.
Making Ahead of Time
You can prepare the filling a day ahead. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just roll out the dough and fill. To reheat, bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy.
Pro Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to the chicken filling for extra flavor.
- Perfect Sealing: Make sure to pinch the seams of the dough tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: These pillows pair perfectly with a side of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
Variations
Cheese Variations
You can switch up the cheese in these savory chicken pillows. Instead of mozzarella, try using cheddar or gouda. Each cheese adds a unique taste. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the flavor. For example, combine cream cheese with a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Chicken Substitutes
If you want to change the protein, consider alternatives to chicken. Cooked turkey or shredded pork works well too. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with cooked mushrooms or lentils. These swaps keep the recipe tasty and satisfying.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor. Spinach or bell peppers mix nicely with the filling. Just chop them finely and stir them in. If you like heat, add a few drops of hot sauce. It gives the pillows an exciting kick and makes them more fun to eat.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
After you make the chicken pillows, let them cool first. This helps keep them fresh. Place leftovers in an airtight container. They will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to label your container with the date. This keeps track of how long they have been stored.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze both uncooked and cooked chicken pillows. For uncooked pillows, arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. For cooked pillows, let them cool down. Store them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you are ready to eat them, thaw the uncooked pillows in the fridge overnight. Bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. For reheating cooked pillows, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy.
FAQs
What can I serve with Chicken Pillows?
You can serve Chicken Pillows with many great sides. Here are some ideas:
- Marinara sauce: A classic dip that adds flavor.
- Salad: A fresh green salad is a great pairing.
- Steamed veggies: Try broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
- Garlic bread: This adds a nice crunch and flavor.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the chicken well.
Can I use leftovers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use leftover chicken in this recipe. Shredded chicken works best. You can also use leftover veggies or cheeses. Just make sure they are fresh and safe to eat. Mixing these leftovers into the filling saves time and reduces waste. It makes the Chicken Pillows even more delicious!
What's the best way to reheat Chicken Pillows?
To reheat Chicken Pillows, use the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pillows on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the texture crispy. You can also use a microwave, but the pillows may get soggy. If you use the microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes. Enjoy your warm Chicken Pillows!
In this blog post, we covered the key ingredients for chicken pillows, including chicken, cream cheese, and spices. We walked through the steps to prepare, mix, and bake your dish. You learned tips for cooking, serving suggestions, and how to store leftovers. Feel free to try variations that suit your taste, whether you choose different cheeses or switch up the protein. Enjoy making and sharing this easy, delicious treat. It’s simple and fun!
