Imagine biting into a fluffy, golden pillow that bursts with savory chicken, creamy cheese, and just the right spices—yes, it’s time to talk about chicken pillows. These delightful bites bring comfort food to new heights, making every meal feel like a cozy hug on a plate.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for chicken pillows
- How to Make chicken pillows
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs
- What are chicken pillows?
- How do I store leftover chicken pillows?
- Can I use other meats for chicken pillows?
- What sides pair well with chicken pillows?
- Conclusion for chicken pillows
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember the first time I made chicken pillows for my family. It was one of those nights when takeout seemed too boring, but I didn’t have the energy for anything complicated. Little did I know, these bad boys would become a family favorite! Perfect for casual dinners or fancy gatherings, chicken pillows are versatile enough to impress anyone.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying with a lovely blend of spices and cheese.
- Visually, these pillows are a feast for the eyes with their golden crust and tempting aroma.
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course, they can adapt to any occasion!
Ingredients for chicken pillows
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts; they should be fresh and plump for the best results.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for regular cream cheese as it adds that luscious creaminess we all crave.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works great here; choose your favorite melty cheese for maximum gooeyness.
- Puff Pastry Sheets: Grab one package from the freezer aisle; this is the secret ingredient that makes everything taste gourmet.
- Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and chives will add a pop of freshness; make sure they are finely chopped.
For the Seasoning:
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra flavor kick; use fresh garlic if you want to go bold!
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate all other flavors; don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chicken pillows
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, cook your boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they are no longer pink inside—about 6-7 minutes per side should do it. Once cooked through, let them cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Create the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and herbs. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined—it should be ooey-gooey goodness!
Step 4: Roll Out Puff Pastry
Thaw your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. Roll out each sheet on a lightly floured surface until it’s about double its original size. Cut them into squares—around four inches by four inches should work perfectly.
Step 5: Fill and Fold
Spoon about two tablespoons of your delicious filling onto the center of each pastry square. Fold over diagonally to create triangles and seal edges by pressing down with a fork.
Step 6: Bake ‘Em Up
Place your filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each pillow lightly with an egg wash (one beaten egg) for that golden finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy your scrumptious chicken pillows while basking in compliments from everyone around you!
So there you have it—a delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in alone (with Netflix), these chicken pillows are bound to become your go-to recipe.
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken pillows recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also transforms your weeknight dinners into delightful feasts.
- With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, savory filling, these pillows are sure to impress family and friends alike.
- They’re perfect for any occasion!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve those perfectly fluffy chicken pillows, start by preparing your filling while preheating the oven. Next, roll out your dough and fill each pillow before baking them to golden perfection. This sequence ensures everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these chicken pillows by swapping in different cheeses, adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or trying various spices for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, making this dish truly your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly cooked chicken for better flavor and texture.
- Don’t overstuff the pillows; they need room to expand during baking.
- Finally, brush them with butter before baking for that irresistible golden crust.
Sometimes, I whip up these chicken pillows for a casual family gathering. The smiles on everyone’s faces as they take their first bite? Priceless! They never last long on the table.
FAQs
What are chicken pillows?
Chicken pillows are a delightful dish made with tender chicken, cream cheese, and seasonings, all wrapped in a dough. This recipe offers a savory filling that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of flaky pastry and creamy chicken filling creates a comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
How do I store leftover chicken pillows?
To store leftover chicken pillows, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each pillow tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for about two months when frozen.
Can I use other meats for chicken pillows?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star ingredient, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or even ham to create variations of chicken pillows. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before mixing it with the cream cheese and seasoning. This allows you to customize the dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
What sides pair well with chicken pillows?
Chicken pillows pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad for balance or creamy mashed potatoes for comfort. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal. You could also serve dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for extra flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.
Conclusion for chicken pillows
In summary, chicken pillows offer a deliciously satisfying option for any meal occasion. With their creamy filling wrapped in flaky pastry, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Storing leftovers is easy, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy this versatile dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken Pillows
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Savor the delightful comfort of chicken pillows—flaky pastry filled with creamy cheese and tender chicken that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust:
- 1 package puff pastry sheets (thawed)
Instructions
For the Filling:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts until no longer pink inside, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let them cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- 3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
For the Crust:
- 4. Roll out each thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface until about double its original size. Cut into squares approximately four inches by four inches.
- 5. Spoon about two tablespoons of filling onto the center of each pastry square. Fold over diagonally to create triangles and seal edges by pressing down with a fork.
- 6. Place filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush lightly with an egg wash (one beaten egg) if desired for extra shine.
- 7. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken pillow (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
