Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows

Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy, savory goodness. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these delightful Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows. They are a perfect dish for family dinners, parties, or even just a cozy night at home. Combining tender shredded chicken with rich cream cheese and aromatic herbs, this recipe takes the classic crescent roll to a whole new level. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire!

Top Reasons to Make Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these chicken pillows can be on your table in under an hour.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, they can be served in various settings.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy filling and flaky exterior make them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these in advance and reheat them for a quick meal.
• Flavorful: Garlic, herbs, and cream cheese create a delicious combination that elevates everyday ingredients.

Shopping List

• 4 cups shredded chicken (I use rotisserie for convenience)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup chopped green onion
• 2 packages crescent rolls
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs

Before You Start: Equipment

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the chicken filling ingredients.
• Baking Sheet: To bake your chicken pillows to golden perfection.
• Rolling Pin: To help flatten the crescent roll dough if needed.
• Spatula: For transferring the chicken pillows to the baking sheet.
• Oven: Preheated to ensure a crispy outer layer.

Directions: Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows bake evenly and become beautifully golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, milk, grated parmesan, pressed garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and chopped green onion. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and flavorful.

Step 3: Unroll the Crescent Rolls

Open the packages of crescent rolls and carefully unroll the dough onto a clean surface. You will have triangles of dough that will serve as the base for your chicken filling.

Step 4: Fill the Dough

Take a generous spoonful of the chicken filling and place it at the wide end of each triangle of dough. Be careful not to overfill, as you need to close the pillows securely.

Step 5: Fold and Seal

Starting from the wide end, roll the dough over the filling towards the pointed end. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside. If desired, you can also fold the sides in slightly to create an envelope shape.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Place the filled chicken pillows on a greased baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

• Cheesy Spinach Variation: Add sautéed spinach and mozzarella cheese for a veggie twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Style: Mix in buffalo sauce and shredded cheese for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom and Herb: Substitute some chicken with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Italian Delight: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and Italian sausage for a hearty option.

Pro Perspective

As a food lover, I can’t stress enough the importance of using quality ingredients. Fresh herbs and good quality chicken make a world of difference in flavor. If you have leftovers, these Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness. Another tip is to experiment with different cheeses; a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can add a delightful twist!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you plan to make these ahead of time, you can refrigerate the prepared, unbaked chicken pillows for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking. Place the filled but unbaked pillows on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and golden on top.

Reader Questions

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breast or thighs. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients.

What can I serve with Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows?

These pillows pair wonderfully with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of marinara sauce for dipping!

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with a mixture of cooked spinach, mushrooms, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken pillows in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

In Closing

The beauty of Garlic Herb Chicken Pillows lies in their simplicity and versatility. They are not only easy to whip up but also leave room for creativity, whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore new variations. These delightful pillows are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a staple in your cooking collection. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!