📑 Table of Contents ▶
- Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Fundamentals
- Fundamentals
- Preparation/Setup
- Crafting the Perfect Chicken Pillows
- Technique
- Tips/Tricks
- Perfecting the Chicken Pillows Experience
- Perfecting results
- Troubleshooting/Variations
- Presenting Your Chicken Pillows
- Serving/Presentation
- Pairings/Storage
- Conclusion
- FAQs – Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce wafting through the kitchen. I can vividly recall the first time I made this dish, the warmth of the oven and the anticipation of that first bite. It wasn’t just about the flavors coming together; it was about the excitement of creating something from scratch, with my own hands, in my own space.
Cooking has always been about more than just feeding myself. It’s a ritual, a creative outlet, and a way to bring people together. This particular recipe for Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce holds a special place in my heart. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable, the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable occasion.
As I folded the crescent rolls around the creamy chicken mixture, I felt a sense of accomplishment. The simple act of creating these little parcels, knowing they would soon be golden and crisp, filled me with joy. This dish is a testament to the fact that cooking should be fun, a lovely reminder that the kitchen is a place for both imagination and comfort.
Each time I make Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce, I’m reminded of how food connects us. It’s not just about the ingredients or the technique; it’s about the moments shared around the table. This recipe is more than a meal—it’s a memory in the making, a story told through flavors and textures.
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Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Discover the secret to making Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce. Learn step-by-step how to create a delicious, comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 1/2 – 3 pounds (1.36 kg))
- 2 packages (8-ounce s each) light or regular cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
- 1 batch crescent rolls
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) butter, melted
- 2 cup (480 ml) s panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoon (45 ml) s butter
- 3 tablespoon (45 ml) s flour
- 1 cube chicken bouillon, or 1 teaspoon (5 ml) chicken bouillon granules
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) black pepper
- 1 1/2 cup (360 ml) s milk
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, light or regular
Instructions
- First, prepare the chicken by cooking it (or use pre-cooked, shredded chicken). I suggest placing the chicken breasts in a slow cooker with 2 cups of chicken broth, seasoned with salt and pepper, and letting it cook on a low setting for 6 hours. Once cooked and slightly cooled, shred or chop the chicken into small pieces. In a medium-sized bowl, blend the chicken with the cream cheese, garlic powder, and salt until well-mixed. Keep it aside or refrigerate until you’re ready to proceed.
- Prepare the crescent rolls as instructed in the recipe. After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into two portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle measuring 13×20 inches, then cut each rectangle into 12 pieces by slicing it lengthwise in half and each half into six segments. Gently flatten each dough piece and place roughly 1/4 cup of the chicken and cream cheese mixture in the middle. Fold the edges up and pinch them together firmly to seal.
- Once all the chicken parcels are prepared, mix the panko crumbs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl or shallow dish. Dip each parcel in the melted butter, then roll it in the panko and Parmesan mixture. Arrange them seam-side down, spaced about 2 inches apart, on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, a silicone liner, or lightly greased.
- Bake these parcels in an oven preheated to 375°F for 18-20 minutes, until they are lightly golden and the dough is fully cooked.
- While the parcels are in the oven, make the sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture is golden and bubbly. Gradually incorporate the milk while stirring, then add the chicken bouillon, salt, and pepper once all the milk is added. Continue to stir over medium heat until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 5-10 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Take the sauce off the heat and blend in the sour cream. Add a bit more milk to thin the sauce if necessary.
- Serve the freshly baked parcels warm, topped with the Parmesan cream sauce.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened to blend smoothly with the chicken.
- Toast panko bread crumbs in a dry pan until golden for enhanced flavor.
- Whisk continuously when adding milk to the sauce for a smooth consistency.
Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Fundamentals
Fundamentals
The essentials of Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce start with the quality of your ingredients. Choose large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which provide a tender and juicy base. Meanwhile, softened cream cheese ensures a creamy, luscious filling that’s perfectly seasoned with garlic powder and salt. These elements come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this dish a standout.
When assembling this dish, the crescent rolls play a crucial role. They provide a light, flaky exterior that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. The melted butter and panko Parmesan coating add an additional layer of flavor and crunch, elevating the overall experience.
Preparation/Setup
Begin by preparing your chicken. You can cook it in a slow cooker with seasoned chicken broth for optimal tenderness. Once cooked and cooled, shred it finely to ensure even distribution in the filling. Mix this with your softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and salt to create a creamy and savory filling ready for the crescent rolls.
Prepare the crescent roll dough by rolling it into rectangles, then divide it into smaller sections. Each piece should comfortably encase about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture. After sealing the edges, dip each parcel into melted butter before coating it in the panko and Parmesan mixture, ensuring a crispy, golden finish once baked.
Crafting the Perfect Chicken Pillows
Technique
Mastering the technique for Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce involves a few key steps. Focus on evenly distributing the chicken mixture within each crescent roll, as this will ensure a uniform texture and flavor in every bite. Sealing the edges of the crescent rolls tightly is crucial to prevent any filling from escaping during baking.
Baking at the right temperature is essential. Preheat your oven to 375°F and allow the parcels to bake for 18-20 minutes. This ensures the crescent rolls cook through without drying out the chicken or cream cheese filling. The result is a delightfully flaky exterior with a warm, creamy center.
Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Tips/Tricks
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating your chicken in the broth overnight. This adds depth to the dish, making each bite more flavorful and juicy. Additionally, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this will make blending smoother and more consistent.
For a touch of variety, experiment with different herbs or spices in the filling. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary can complement the garlic and Parmesan beautifully. These small tweaks can personalize the dish to your taste, making it uniquely yours.
Perfecting the Chicken Pillows Experience
Perfecting results
Achieving perfection with Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce means paying attention to details. Ensure the chicken is shredded to a fine consistency to blend seamlessly with the cream cheese. This creates a smooth filling that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Timing is also key. Monitoring the baking process closely allows you to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. A slight adjustment in baking time might be necessary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the parcels as they bake.
Troubleshooting/Variations
If you find the parcels are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly and cover the baking sheet with foil. This prevents over-browning while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly. For those seeking a lighter alternative, try using light cream cheese and sour cream, which maintain the rich flavor while reducing calories.
For more inspiration on chicken dishes, you might want to explore this Chicken Zucchini Bake or the delightful Caesar Chicken with Asparagus. Each offers a unique twist on the classic chicken dinner, perfect for any occasion.
Presenting Your Chicken Pillows
Serving/Presentation
Presentation is an integral part of the dining experience. When serving Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce, consider plating them on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a vibrant vegetable medley. The contrast in colors and textures enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce generously over the pillows just before serving. This not only adds flavor but also ensures each bite is rich and satisfying. For an added touch, sprinkle a bit of freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper over the top.
Pairings/Storage
Pairing your Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce with a simple side, such as a Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet, complements the flavors beautifully. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce
For storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently in an oven at 350°F to maintain the flaky texture of the crescent rolls.
Conclusion
Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a dish that embodies the joy of cooking. It combines simple ingredients in a way that is both creative and comforting. The result is a meal that’s not only delicious but also memorable, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
From the flaky crescent rolls to the savory chicken filling and rich Parmesan sauce, every element contributes to a harmonious culinary experience. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.
Embrace the opportunity to experiment and make it your own. With a few tweaks and personal touches, Chicken Pillows With Creamy Parmesan Sauce can become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire, a testament to the power of good food to bring people together.
