Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Chicken Pillows! They’re like a warm hug on a plate. Seriously, every time I make them, I can’t help but feel all cozy inside. It’s that perfect blend of flaky pastry wrapped around a creamy chicken and cheese filling that just makes my heart sing. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly fall evening when I was craving something comforting after a long day. It was one of those nights when I just wanted to sink into my couch with a big plate of something delicious—and these Chicken Pillows were born! Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll totally understand why they’re my go-to comfort food! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, these little pillows of joy never fail to impress. You’ve got to try them!
Ingredients for Chicken Pillows
Alright, let’s gather everything you need for these scrumptious Chicken Pillows! I promise, the ingredients are simple and super easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I usually use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep, but any cooked chicken works great!
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened: This adds that dreamy creaminess that makes the filling irresistible.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but mild works too!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It adds a lovely depth to the filling.
- 1 package crescent roll dough: I just love how flaky this dough gets in the oven—pure magic!
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: This will give the pillows that golden finish we all crave.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top brings a nice flavor kick and crunch!
That’s it! Super straightforward, right? Now, let’s get ready to turn these ingredients into something amazing!
How to Prepare Chicken Pillows
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making these delicious Chicken Pillows! Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and the end result is so worth it!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your Chicken Pillows bake evenly. No one wants undercooked dough, am I right? So, while you’re prepping everything else, let that oven get nice and toasty!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. I like to use a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. This filling should be luscious and cheesy, with just the right kick from the garlic and onion. Honestly, I could eat this filling straight from the bowl—just a little taste test won’t hurt, right?
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Pillows
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—assembling our Chicken Pillows! Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Here’s a little tip: don’t overstuff them, or you’ll have a messy situation on your hands! Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal them tightly. You want these little pillows to be snug and secure, so the filling doesn’t escape while baking!
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Pillows
Once you’ve assembled all your Chicken Pillows, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor and crunch. Now, pop them into the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and flaky. The smell that fills your kitchen during this time is pure bliss—seriously, you’ll be counting down the minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh my gosh, where do I even start? You’re going to absolutely love these Chicken Pillows for so many reasons! First off, they’re incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, from start to finish, you can have these beauties on the table in about 35 minutes!
But it’s not just the speed that makes them special. The flavors are so comforting and familiar, wrapping you in a cozy embrace with every bite. The creamy chicken filling paired with that flaky pastry is just heavenly! And let’s not forget how versatile they are! You can serve them as a main dish with a salad on the side, or even as an appetizer at a gathering. Everyone will be reaching for seconds—you might need to hide a few for yourself!
And if you’re like me and love to customize recipes, the possibilities are endless! You can throw in some veggies or swap out the chicken for turkey—whatever tickles your fancy! Trust me, once you try these Chicken Pillows, they’ll be a fixture in your recipe rotation. You won’t want to miss out on this deliciousness!
Tips for Success with Chicken Pillows
Let’s make sure your Chicken Pillows turn out absolutely perfect! I’ve gathered some of my best tips to help you navigate any potential pitfalls and ensure you’re serving up the fluffiest, most delicious pillows possible.
- Don’t Overfill: This is a big one! It’s tempting to pile on the filling, but too much can lead to a messy explosion in the oven. Stick to a generous spoonful at the wide end of each triangle, and you’ll be golden!
- Seal Them Well: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly after folding the dough over the filling. This will keep all that creamy goodness inside while baking. You want every bite to be filled with flavor, not air!
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only helps with cleanup but also prevents the bottoms from getting too dark. Plus, it gives those pillows a nice, even bake!
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your Chicken Pillows as they bake. You want them to be a beautiful golden brown—if they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Let Them Rest: After you take them out of the oven, let your Chicken Pillows rest for a few minutes before diving in. This helps the filling settle and makes them easier to handle.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the best Chicken Pillows ever! I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of biting into these flaky, cheesy delights. Happy cooking!
Variations for Chicken Pillows
One of the best things about these Chicken Pillows is how adaptable they are! I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to keep things exciting in the kitchen. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Turkey Pillows: Got some leftover turkey? Use it instead of chicken! It’s a fantastic way to give your holiday leftovers new life.
- Veggie-Loaded Pillows: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms into the filling. It adds a pop of color and a boost of flavor!
- Spicy Chicken Pillows: If you like a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into your chicken mixture. It’ll give a nice kick that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Herbed Chicken Pillows: Add some fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme to the filling for an aromatic twist. It’s a simple way to elevate the flavor profile!
- Buffalo Chicken Pillows: For those who love bold flavors, mix some buffalo sauce into your chicken filling. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping—yum!
- Cheesy Spinach Pillows: Substitute half of the chicken with cream cheese and fresh spinach. It’s a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for veggie lovers!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative and make these Chicken Pillows your own. I can’t wait to hear about all the tasty combinations you come up with!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Pillows
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Knowing the nutritional information for these Chicken Pillows can help you enjoy them even more, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is one delicious pillow:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, this just gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying when you savor these fluffy Chicken Pillows! So, go ahead and indulge a little; you deserve it!
FAQ About Chicken Pillows
Got questions about these delightful Chicken Pillows? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my personal tips and tricks to make your cooking experience even better.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! In fact, I often do. It saves you time and adds fantastic flavor to your Chicken Pillows. Just shred the meat and you’re ready to go!
What can I serve with Chicken Pillows?
These pillows are so versatile! I love serving them with a fresh salad, some roasted veggies, or a nice dipping sauce like ranch or BBQ. You can even make them part of a cozy dinner spread with sides like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese!
Can I freeze Chicken Pillows?
Yes, you can! Just assemble the Chicken Pillows but don’t bake them. Instead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare at my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven to keep that flaky texture intact—microwaving can make them a bit soggy.
Can I make these Chicken Pillows ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare them a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping them in the oven. You’ll still get that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Print
Chicken Pillows: 7 Comforting Bites That Warm Your Heart
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Ketogenic
Description
Chicken Pillows are a delicious and comforting dish filled with creamy chicken and cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 package crescent roll dough
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on each triangle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch to seal.
- Place the pillows on a baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken.
- Add vegetables like spinach for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pillow
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Chicken Pillows, Chicken Recipes, Comfort Food