Do you want a delicious meal that’s easy to make? Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Cream are the answer! You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this tasty dish that bursts with flavor. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the freshest ingredients to baking the perfect chicken pillows. Let’s dive in and create a fun meal that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
Ingredient List for Chicken Pillows
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Ingredients for the Parmesan Cream Sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients
To make the best Chicken Pillows, fresh ingredients are key. Here are some tips:
– Chicken: Use cooked chicken that is moist and tender. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease.
– Cream Cheese: Choose a block of cream cheese instead of spreadable. It mixes better.
– Cheeses: Look for freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella. They melt nicely.
– Herbs: Use fresh parsley for a bright and lively flavor. Dried herbs lack the same punch.
– Puff Pastry: Buy quality puff pastry from a trusted brand. This ensures it bakes up flaky.
Fresh ingredients create tasty meals. Always check for quality to elevate your dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Filling
Start by mixing the filling. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Add in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This mix gives the filling a nice creamy texture. Toss in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir everything well until it blends nicely.
Shaping and Baking the Chicken Pillows
Next, get your puff pastry ready. Roll out two sheets of thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Aim for a smooth finish. Cut each sheet into squares, about 4×4 inches. Place about 2 tablespoons of your chicken filling in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal it tightly. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice touch. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden look. Place the pillows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until they puff up and turn golden brown.
Making the Parmesan Cream Sauce
While the pillows bake, let’s make the creamy sauce. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Adjust the flavor with salt and pepper as needed. When your chicken pillows are ready, take them out and let them cool a bit. Drizzle the creamy Parmesan sauce over the pillows and add some fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfectly Flaky Pastry
To make your pastry light and flaky, keep these tips in mind:
– Use cold puff pastry. Warm dough can lead to tough, chewy pastry.
– Roll it out gently. Too much pressure can flatten the layers.
– Keep your work surface floured. This prevents sticking and helps with even rolling.
Baking at a high temperature helps the layers rise. Aim for 400°F (200°C) for the best puff.
Variations to Enhance Flavor
You can easily add new flavors to your chicken pillows:
– Swap mozzarella for cheddar for a sharper taste.
– Mix in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
– Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick.
Feel free to experiment with herbs too! Thyme or basil can elevate your dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common errors:
– Not sealing the edges well. This can cause filling to leak out while baking.
– Overfilling the pastry. Too much filling can lead to soggy bottoms.
– Skipping the egg wash. This step gives your pillows a beautiful golden color.
By avoiding these pitfalls, your chicken pillows will be a hit every time!
Variations
Substitutions for Different Cheeses
You can switch up the cheeses in this dish. If you want a sharper taste, try cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella. Goat cheese adds a creamy tang, while ricotta gives a light texture. Use your favorite cheese! Just keep the total cheese amount the same. This way, your chicken pillows will still taste great.
Adding Vegetables or Herbs
Mixing in veggies can make these pillows even better. Spinach or cooked broccoli can add color and nutrients. You can also add finely chopped bell peppers for a sweet crunch. Herbs like basil or thyme can bring a fresh taste. Just chop them small to blend well in the filling.
Alternative Sauces to Pair
While the Parmesan cream sauce is a star, other sauces work too. A simple marinara can give a fun Italian twist. Try a white wine sauce for a touch of elegance. You could even whip up a lemon butter sauce for a bright flavor. Each sauce will change the dish’s vibe, so feel free to experiment!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Chicken Pillows
To store leftover chicken pillows, wait until they cool down. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying. You can also wrap each pillow in plastic wrap. This method helps maintain their taste and texture. Store them in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Tips for Best Texture
When you want to enjoy your chicken pillows again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pillows on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 15 minutes. This will make them warm and crispy. Avoid the microwave if you can. The microwave can make the pastry soggy.
Freezing Chicken Pillows for Future Meals
You can freeze chicken pillows to enjoy later. After they cool, place them on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching. Freeze them for about two hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What is the best way to reheat Chicken Pillows?
To reheat Chicken Pillows, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pillows on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them moist. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the pastry flaky and warm.
Can I use store-bought chicken for the filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken. Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. It saves time and still tastes good. Just mix it with the other filling ingredients. This way, you can make your Chicken Pillows quickly.
How do I know when the Parmesan cream sauce is done?
The Parmesan cream sauce is done when it thickens and the cheese melts. Stir it often as it cooks over medium heat. It should coat the back of a spoon. If it looks creamy and smooth, it is ready to serve.
You can create delicious chicken pillows with fresh ingredients and easy steps. We covered how to make the filling, shape the pastries, and prepare a creamy sauce. Remember to be careful with your pastry for the best texture. Explore variations like different cheeses and adding veggies to enhance flavor. You can store leftovers and reheat them perfectly for later meals. Enjoy crafting this tasty dish for family and friends. Trust me, it’s worth every effort!
