Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce are a delightful comfort food that combines flaky pastry with tender chicken, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to impress family and friends with minimal effort. With a delicious filling of cream cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, these pillows are the perfect blend of textures and flavors. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pillows with Creamy

This recipe for chicken pillows with creamy sauce offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Second, the use of frozen puff pastry allows for quick assembly without compromising on taste. Third, the combination of chicken and cream cheese provides a satisfying, savory filling that everyone will love. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can customize the filling with various ingredients, such as mushrooms or herbs. It’s also a gluten-free option, making it suitable for different dietary needs. Finally, these pillows are not just delicious; they look impressive on the plate, making them great for gatherings.

Ingredients for Chicken Pillows with Creamy

Gather these items:

2 cups cooked chicken breasts (shredded)
1 package frozen puff pastry (thawed)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/4 cup chives (chopped)
1 each egg (beaten for brushing)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
to taste salt
to taste freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes (optional)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated, optional)
to taste salt
to taste freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Pillows with Creamy Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven according to the puff pastry package instructions, usually around 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Cook the chicken breasts in olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Shred the chicken using two forks for a tender filling.
Step 3: Mix the shredded chicken with cream cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and chives. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried red pepper flakes, if desired.
Step 4: Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, each about 4 inches wide. Fill each square generously with the chicken mixture and fold to create pillows, sealing the edges well.
Step 5: Brush the tops of the pillows with the beaten egg. Place them seam-side down on a lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and flaky.
Step 7: Prepare the sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 8: Add the heavy cream to the saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, nutmeg (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Step 9: Cook the sauce until it thickens, stirring occasionally, and serve it generously over the Chicken Pillows. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Pillows with Creamy

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your cream cheese is well-softened to mix easily with the other ingredients.
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture.
Watch the baking time closely; ovens can vary, and you want them perfectly golden.
Use a fork to seal the edges of the pillows for a beautiful finish.
For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms to the filling for chicken pillows with creamy mushroom sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Pillows with Creamy

These creamy chicken pillows recipe are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal, or pair them with roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. You can also serve them with a side of mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting touch, drizzle them with additional creamy chicken sauce before serving.

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How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pillows with Creamy

To store leftover chicken pillows stuffed with cream, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy. These easy creamy chicken pillows are perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pillows with Creamy

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Pillows with Creamy?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and making sure not to overfill the pillows. A balanced filling of chicken, cream cheese, and vegetables will ensure they puff up perfectly in the oven.

Can I make Chicken Pillows with Creamy ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pillows and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Pillows with Creamy?

Common mistakes include overfilling the pillows and not sealing them properly. Be sure to use enough egg wash on the edges to create a good seal and prevent filling from leaking out during baking.

Variations of Chicken Pillows with Creamy You Can Try

There are countless variations to explore with chicken pillows with creamy herb sauce or chicken pillows with creamy spinach filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add spices such as cayenne for a kick. For a Mediterranean twist, consider incorporating feta cheese and olives into the filling.

For more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes, and Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks.

For more information on the benefits of using cream cheese in recipes, visit Healthline.