Introduction
This delicious chicken pillow recipe is the perfect comfort food, combining the rich flavors of creamy chicken and herbs enveloped in golden crescent roll dough. It’s an easy dish to whip up, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. With a blend of tender shredded chicken, savory spices, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, these pillows are sure to become a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup milk
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ cup chopped green onion
2 packages crescent rolls
1 tablespoon butter, melted
¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 18-23 minutes. The total time combines both prep and cooking, resulting in about 35-40 minutes. This recipe yields 8 savory chicken pillows. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, milk, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and chopped green onion. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Unroll the crescent rolls and press the diagonal seams together to form rectangles. Separate them into 4 equal rectangles per package, resulting in a total of 8 rectangles.
Step 4: Fill the Crescent Rolls
Place approximately 1/8 of the chicken mixture onto each rectangle. Fold the edges over the filling, sealing them to form a pillow shape.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place each pillow seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Brush the tops of each pillow with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Bake the Pillows
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-23 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the tops are golden brown.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
Using rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience and flavor, but any cooked shredded chicken will work.
Note 2: Cream Cheese
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to make mixing easier.
Note 3: Sealing the Pillows
Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
These chicken pillows can be served with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the ingredients for the filling, ensure thorough mixing to achieve a uniform flavor and texture. Use a spatula or mixer for better results, especially when incorporating cream cheese.
Sealing the Rolls
After placing the chicken mixture on the crescent roll rectangles, fold the edges carefully and press firmly to seal. This prevents the filling from leaking during baking.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing melted butter on the tops of the pillows before baking adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden brown color.
Baking
Bake until golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. Keep an eye on the color, starting at 18 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken pillows can be served with a side salad or dipping sauces to enhance the flavor experience.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. Just ensure it’s shredded to the right consistency.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter option, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze these chicken pillows?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Italian breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, panko, or even crushed crackers for a different texture.
Conclusion
This creamy and flavorful chicken crescent pillow recipe is a delightful meal that brings together the richness of cream cheese, savory chicken, and aromatic herbs. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The crispy outer layer of the crescent rolls complements the creamy filling, making each bite satisfying and delicious.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls
Substitute the cream cheese with buffalo sauce and add some shredded cheddar cheese for a spicy twist on this dish.
Savory Spinach and Feta Pockets
Replace shredded chicken with chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese. Add some dill and lemon zest for a refreshing taste.
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake
Incorporate steamed broccoli into the chicken mixture and swap some Parmesan for cheddar for a cheesy, veggie-packed option.
Italian Herb Chicken Roll-Ups
Mix in diced sun-dried tomatoes and a touch of mozzarella cheese for an Italian flair, complementing the existing herbs in the recipe.
Tex-Mex Chicken Pillows
Add taco seasoning to the chicken mixture and include some black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex inspired meal that pairs well with salsa.
