Introduction
Indulge in a warm, creamy blend of flavors wrapped in a flaky, golden crescent roll pastry. This chicken pillow recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a delightful appetizer for gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried chives
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: About 16 chicken pillows
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the Pillows
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Fold the corners over the filling and roll towards the pointed end, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed. Pinch the seams to seal.
Coat with Butter and Bread Crumbs
Dip each assembled pillow into the melted butter, ensuring all sides are coated. Then, roll each buttered pillow in the seasoned bread crumbs until fully covered.
Bake
Arrange the coated pillows on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pillows are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
Serve
Remove the chicken pillows from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delightful main dish or appetizer.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute rotisserie chicken for cooked, shredded chicken to save time.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
These chicken pillows can be frozen before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pasta or Salad Pairing
Consider serving these chicken pillows with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Incorporate all filling ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
Assembling the Pillows
Carefully place the filling on the crescent roll triangles and seal properly to avoid leakage during baking.
Coating the Pillows
Dipping in melted butter and rolling in seasoned bread crumbs adds a crispy texture and enhances flavor.
Baking
Ensure even spacing on the baking sheet for uniform cooking and optimal browning.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the assembled pillows before baking?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I ensure the pillows are crispy?
Ensure you coat them well with butter and bread crumbs, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be great additions for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This delightful chicken pillow recipe delivers a delicious combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The creamy filling wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough creates a satisfying bite that is sure to please family and guests alike. Easy to prepare and versatile, these chicken pillows can be enjoyed as a main dish or a tasty appetizer.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Veggie and Cheese Pillows
Substitute the chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese for a vegetarian version that bursts with flavor.
Buffalo Chicken Pillows
Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy twist that packs a punch. Serve with blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Breakfast Chicken Pillows
Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon to the chicken filling for a delicious breakfast treat that’s perfect for brunch.
Italian Sausage and Cheese Pillows
Use crumbled Italian sausage in place of shredded chicken and add mozzarella cheese for a hearty Italian-inspired dish.
Pesto Chicken Pillows
Incorporate pesto sauce into the chicken filling for a fresh and herby flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Spinach and Artichoke Pillows
Blend cream cheese with chopped artichokes and fresh spinach for a creamy and savory filling that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
