Introduction
Chicken Pillows are a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a flaky, buttery pastry, topped with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these pillows are not just stunning to look at but equally comforting to eat.
The charm of Chicken Pillows lies in their versatility and the ability to adapt them to your tastes. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce adds a depth of flavor that enhances the chicken and elevates the entire dish. Whether served with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables, this recipe is meant to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Cooked chicken forms the base of the filling for the pillows. Shredding the chicken allows it to combine well with the other ingredients, ensuring every bite has a perfect balance of flavors. - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the filling. It helps bind the chicken with the spices and herbs, giving each pillow a luscious mouthfeel that complements the flaky pastry. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder infuses the chicken filling with a robust flavor without having to chop fresh garlic. This ingredient helps to create that savory element that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan sauce. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling. It enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish without overwhelming it, allowing the chicken to shine. - 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Puff pastry is the outer shell of the pillows, providing a flaky and golden texture. It puffs up beautifully during baking, creating a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling inside. - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the richness of the cream cheese. It also contributes to the sauce's texture, helping it become thicker and creamier. - ½ cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture and mouthfeel. It helps to bind the flavors together, creating a velvety sauce that drapes beautifully over the pillows. - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh parsley not only adds a touch of color to the dish but also a burst of freshness. It brightens the rich flavors and provides a welcome contrast to the garlic and cheese. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning your filling is crucial, as it enhances the flavors of the chicken and cheese. Always taste as you go to ensure a well-balanced and flavorful final dish.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that your Chicken Pillows will bake evenly and help achieve that perfect golden-brown color once they're cooked. This initial step is critical for maintaining the integrity of the flaky pastry.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Mixing these ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, ensuring that each pillow is flavorful. The cream cheese should be soft enough for easy blending, so take the time to ensure it's at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
Step 3: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares.
Rolling out the pastry increases its size and allows for more filling, while cutting it into squares helps to ensure uniform sizing. This attention to detail results in even cooking and appealing shapes for your Chicken Pillows.
Step 4: Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each pastry square.
Using a spoon allows you to control the amount of filling placed inside each square. Be careful not to overfill, or the pastry may burst during baking, ruining the delightful pillows.
Step 5: Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and seal them by pressing down with a fork.
Sealing the pastry correctly is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking. Using a fork not only secures the edges but also creates a beautiful pattern, enhancing the presentation of your dish.
Step 6: Place the filled pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup. This step also promotes even baking, ensuring that the bottoms of your pillows don’t become too soggy.
Step 7: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Baking at the right temperature and for the correct duration allows the pastry to puff and crisp up nicely. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent over-browning, as each oven can vary slightly in temperature.
Step 8: Meanwhile, prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce by combining the heavy cream, remaining Parmesan, and minced garlic in a saucepan over medium heat.
This step is essential for creating a flavorful sauce that will complement the Chicken Pillows. Heating ingredients together allows for a gradual melding of flavors, creating a rich and aromatic sauce.
Step 9: Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly.
Stirring the sauce helps to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking. This is the key step to achieving the desired thickness; be patient, and do not rush this process.
Step 10: Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste before removing from heat.
Adding fresh parsley at the end preserves its vibrant color and fresh flavor. Proper seasoning at this stage ensures that the sauce is fully flavored and pairs perfectly with the Chicken Pillows.
Step 11: Serve the Chicken Pillows warm drizzled with the Garlic Parmesan Sauce.
Serving the pillows warm highlights their flaky texture and creamy interior. Drizzling the sauce over them not only enhances flavors but also adds visual appeal, making the dish inviting and delicious.
Elevating the Filling: Flavor Enhancements
For those looking to amp up their Chicken Pillows, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers to the chicken filling. These additions not only provide extra texture but also enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Perfecting the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
To take the Garlic Parmesan Sauce to new heights, experiment with adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice. These acids can cut through the richness, providing a balanced flavor that complements the sauce beautifully. Additionally, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions for an Impressive Meal
Pair your Chicken Pillows with a simple arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus or glazed carrots would also complement the richness of the dish while adding a pop of color to your plate.
FAQs
What consistency should the Garlic Parmesan Sauce have?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out; if too thin, continue simmering it to reduce further.
Can I make this dish with leftover turkey?
Yes, leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply substitute an equal amount for the chicken and follow the recipe as instructed for a delightful post-holiday meal.
Why did my Chicken Pillows turn out soggy?
Soggy pillows can result from overfilling or not allowing the pastry to bake long enough. Ensure you're using the correct oven temperature and consider shortening the amount of filling for a crispier texture.
How can I make the filling spicier?
If you're looking for some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken filling. These additions will elevate the flavor profile and add an exciting kick.
What should I serve alongside Chicken Pillows?
A light salad or roasted vegetables pairs well, balancing the richness of the Chicken Pillows. Consider a lemony arugula salad or a medley of seasonal veggies for a wholesome meal.
Can I use other types of cheese in the sauce?
Absolutely! While Parmesan offers a distinct flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a different taste. Each cheese will bring its unique character to the sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a dish that combines comfort and elegance, making it suitable for any occasion. The layers of flavor intermingle within the flaky pastry, creating a fulfilling experience for everyone at the table.
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. With its rich flavors and delightful presentation, it's a meal that will surely become a favorite in your rotation.
Recipe Card
Savory Chicken Pillows with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and seal them by pressing down with a fork.
- Place the filled pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Meanwhile, prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce by combining the heavy cream, remaining Parmesan, and minced garlic in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste before removing from heat.
- Serve the Chicken Pillows warm drizzled with the Garlic Parmesan Sauce.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
