Imagine a dish that wraps comfort and flavor into one perfect bite, a true culinary embrace. Our Chicken Pillows deliver just that: tender, seasoned chicken nestled within a flaky, golden pastry. This recipe offers a beautiful blend of creamy richness and savory notes, creating an experience everyone will adore.
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They are versatile, simple enough for weeknights yet elegant for gatherings. These delightful Chicken Pillows effortlessly bring joy and warmth, becoming an instant family favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Pillows
These delightful Chicken Pillows are more than just a meal; they are an experience. You’ll love how they simplify your cooking while elevating your dinner table with minimal fuss.
- Irresistible Flavor: A harmonious blend of savory chicken and creamy filling, all wrapped in golden pastry.
- Effortless Preparation: Simple steps make these Chicken Pillows perfect for any day of the week.
- Wholesome Goodness: Easily adaptable for healthier choices without sacrificing taste or comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these comforting Chicken Pillows begins with selecting quality ingredients. Just as my grandmother always said, “Good food comes from good beginnings.”
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely diced (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Pastry:
- 2 sheets (about 17.3 oz total) puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked and well-drained spinach
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Substitutions & Variations
This recipe for Chicken Pillows is wonderfully forgiving, allowing for creative swaps to suit your dietary needs or pantry. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, a little bit like adding your unique story to a beloved family tale.
- For the Chicken: Use cooked turkey or even canned salmon for a pescatarian twist.
- Cream Cheese Alternative: Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Cottage cheese, blended until smooth, also works as a high-protein option.
- Sour Cream Swap: Plain Greek yogurt offers a tangier, protein-rich alternative with fewer calories.
- Pastry Choice: While puff pastry creates the classic flaky texture, crescent roll dough or even phyllo dough can be used for different textures.
- Vegetable Boost: Fold in sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped broccoli florets, or corn for extra nutrients.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a delightful kick to your Chicken Pillows.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different methode.
To elevate your Chicken Pillows experience, consider experimenting with flavors by trying out recipes like Queso Chicken Enchiladas that can inspire creative swaps for the filling.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes preparing these delicious Chicken Pillows a breeze. Think of them as your culinary companions on this delightful journey.
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Rolling pin (if not pre-rolled puff pastry)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s create these heartwarming Chicken Pillows together. Follow these steps carefully, and soon your kitchen will fill with an aroma that signals pure comfort.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh chives, fresh parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and creamy. If using, fold in the cooked spinach or Parmesan cheese.
- Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Carefully unroll one sheet of thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface or directly onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. If it’s not already a perfect rectangle, gently roll it out to about a 10×12-inch rectangle.
- Cut and Fill: Cut the puff pastry sheet into 6 equal squares. For each square, place a generous spoonful (about 2 tablespoons) of the chicken mixture in the center.
- Form the Chicken Pillows: Bring two opposite corners of the pastry square together over the filling, pinching them firmly to seal. Then, bring the other two opposite corners to meet in the middle, creating a neat package. Pinch all seams securely to prevent the filling from escaping during baking. Alternatively, you can fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle, pinching the edges closed with a fork. Repeat with the remaining pastry squares and chicken filling.
- Egg Wash: Arrange the formed Chicken Pillows on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each. Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg wash. This gives them that beautiful golden sheen.
- Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and cooked through. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on them!
- Serve: Remove the baked Chicken Pillows from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a bit and prevents burns from the hot filling.
As you create these heartwarming Chicken Pillows, you might find the comforting flavors of Apple Butter Pork to complement your cooking journey perfectly.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfectly golden and delicious Chicken Pillows is all about these little details. These are the secrets passed down through generations of home cooks, ensuring your dish turns out flawlessly every time.
- Chill the Filling: If your chicken mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before filling the pastry. This makes it easier to handle and prevents the pastry from getting soggy.
- Cold Puff Pastry: Work with puff pastry when it’s still cold from the refrigerator but pliable. If it gets too warm, it becomes sticky and difficult to manage. If it starts to soften, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Secure Sealing: Pinch the edges of your Chicken Pillows very firmly. You can even use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges for extra security and a decorative touch.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can lead to bursting pastries. Stick to the recommended amount for the best results.
- Ventilation: For even cooking and golden crust, ensure adequate space between each Chicken Pillow on the baking sheet.
- Even Browning: If your oven bakes unevenly, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the cooking time for a consistent golden finish.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These comforting Chicken Pillows taste best fresh, but with a few simple tips, you can enjoy them later, just like finding a treasured memory again.
- Storage: Store leftover Chicken Pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing (Unbaked): You can prepare the unbaked Chicken Pillows, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover Chicken Pillows in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the pastry is crisp again. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the pastry soggy.
Enjoying the leftovers of your Chicken Pillows is made easier with storage tips that can also apply to many dishes, such as The Gelatin Trick Diet, which showcases efficient meal preparation.
What to Serve With This Recipe
To complete your meal of delectable Chicken Pillows, consider pairings that offer freshness and balance. Think of it as creating a symphony of flavors that truly nourishes the body and soul.
- Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Pillows.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts offer a wholesome, earthy side that complements the savory filling.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of almonds add a delicate crunch and vibrant color.
- Tomato Soup: A creamy tomato soup makes a classic and comforting companion, perfect for dipping these savory delights.
- Coleslaw: A light, vinegar-based coleslaw can provide a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the chicken filling ahead of time for my Chicken Pillows?
Absolutely! Preparing the chicken filling up to 2 days in advance is a fantastic way to save time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your Chicken Pillows.
What if my puff pastry tears while I’m working with it?
Puff pastry can be delicate. If it tears, simply pinch the edges together gently to seal the tear. You can also lightly moisten your fingers with water to help the pastry adhere. A small tear won’t ruin your delicious Chicken Pillows!
Can I use raw chicken in this Chicken Pillows recipe?
No, this recipe specifically calls for cooked chicken. The baking time for the pastry isn’t long enough to fully cook raw chicken. Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded or diced before mixing it into the filling.
Chicken Pillows are a delightful dish that combines fluffy pastry with a savory filling, often featuring shredded chicken and creamy ingredients. This comforting recipe showcases the art of making wholesome meals that appeal to families and gatherings, a culinary tradition celebrated in many cultures, as noted in Cuisine.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Pillows are more than a recipe; they are a legacy of love, sharing, and moments around the family table. I hope this dish brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it has to mine, creating memories to cherish for years to come. Enjoy every comforting bite.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
This is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one Chicken Pillow, serving as a general guide. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Chicken Pillows
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Unroll the puff pastry and cut it into squares. Place a spoonful of chicken mixture in the center of each square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal or fold into triangles.
- Arrange on baking sheets, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
