Name: Easy Chicken Pillows with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 10 ounces Cooked Shredded Chicken Breast (Approximately 2 cups, rotisserie chicken works well.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened, can substitute with ricotta.); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (Softened for easy mixing.); 2 tablespoons Dried Chives (Fresh can be used if available.); 1 tablespoon Dried Minced Onion (Fresh onion or onion powder can work.); Salt (To taste.); Pepper (To taste.); 1 package Refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough (Consider using crescent sheets.); 1 cup Italian Breadcrumbs (Panko can be used for added crunch.); 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (To create a creamy base.); 1 packet Chicken Gravy Mix (Combine with homemade stock for deeper taste.); 1 cup Water (Necessary for preparing the gravy.)

As I pulled the trays of my Chicken Pillows from the oven, the rich aroma wrapped itself around the kitchen like a warm embrace. These delightful pockets of joy combine a creamy shredded chicken filling encased in golden, flaky crescent dough. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, Chicken Pillows serve up comfort without the fuss. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—feel free to tailor the gravy to your taste or switch up the filling for a fun twist. Imagine a family-friendly meal that not only warms the heart but also brings everyone together. Are you ready to create this cozy sensation that will have your loved ones asking for seconds?

Why Will You Love Chicken Pillows?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients and an easy assembly process, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Comfort Food Hero: The combination of creamy chicken filling and crispy, flaky dough makes for an irresistible bite everyone will love.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to play with different gravies like a rich mushroom sauce or even remix the filling to suit your family’s tastes. Try a fun twist with Buffalo Chicken Waffle flavors or go classic with Tandoori Chicken Flavorful.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Chicken Pillows are sure to impress guests without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Pair them with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies for a complete, satisfying meal.

Perfect Leftovers: Any extras can be stored and enjoyed the next day, making dinner planning a breeze! They’ll reheat perfectly, much like the delightful Sesame Chicken Discover you love.

Chicken Pillows Ingredients

For the Filling

Cooked Shredded Chicken Breast – Approximately 10 ounces (about 2 cups) delivers heartiness, and rotisserie chicken works as an excellent shortcut.
Cream Cheese – Provides a rich creaminess to bind the chicken filling; feel free to substitute with ricotta for a lighter texture.
Salted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing into the filling.
Dried Chives – Introduces a subtle, onion-like flavor; fresh chives can be used if you have them on hand.
Dried Minced Onion – Enhances savory notes; fresh onion or onion powder can work as substitutes if desired.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the filling to taste, adjust according to your chicken’s saltiness.

For the Dough

Refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough – Forms the crispy outer layer; consider using crescent sheets for simplified assembly.
Italian Breadcrumbs – Coats the pillows for that crispy texture; you can opt for panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.

For the Gravy

Cream of Chicken Soup – Creates a creamy base for the chicken gravy that your Chicken Pillows will be served with.
Chicken Gravy Mix – Enhances the flavor of the homemade gravy; for a deeper taste, combine it with homemade stock.
Water – Necessary for preparing the gravy, ensuring the right consistency.

These Chicken Pillows promise a delightful combination of flavors that are easy to whip up for any occasion, making them a perfect fit for family meals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Pillows

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure that your Chicken Pillows bake evenly and won’t stick, resulting in a perfectly golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of salted butter until smooth and creamy. Next, mix in about 10 ounces of cooked shredded chicken, along with 2 tablespoons of dried chives, 1 tablespoon of dried minced onion, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This savory filling should be well combined and delicious.

Step 3: Form Dough Rectangles
Unroll the refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough onto a clean surface. Take two triangles of dough and press the seams tightly together to create a rectangle. Repeat this process until you have four rectangles to work with. Ensuring the seams are sealed will help contain the delightful filling inside the Chicken Pillows while baking.

Step 4: Fill and Fold
Spoon the chicken mixture into the center of each rectangle, ensuring you don’t overfill. Carefully fold the corners of the dough over the filling to create a pillow shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal them, preventing any leakage during baking. This step is crucial for keeping the creamy goodness inside each Chicken Pillow.

Step 5: Coat Pills
Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a small bowl. Carefully dip each filled pillow into the melted butter, ensuring they are well coated. Then roll each pillow in Italian breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior. Gently shake off any excess breadcrumbs to avoid clumping, ensuring a delightful crunch when baked.

Step 6: Bake
Arrange the Chicken Pillows on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn a lovely golden brown, indicating they’re cooked to perfection and ready to be served.

Step 7: Make Gravy
While the Chicken Pillows are baking, prepare your creamy gravy. In a saucepan, combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 packet of chicken gravy mix, and 1 cup of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally. This will give your gravy a rich, velvety texture to serve over the Chicken Pillows.

Step 8: Serve
Once the Chicken Pillows are beautifully golden and the filling is piping hot, remove them from the oven. Arrange the pillows on a serving platter and generously pour the warm gravy over them. These Chicken Pillows make for a comforting, heartwarming meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Pillows are a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks! You can prepare the filling (using cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the pillows and freeze them before baking; simply line them up on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have delightful Chicken Pillows on the table with minimal effort, keeping the taste just as delicious as if you made them fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pillows

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the Chicken Pillows fresh without losing their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Pillows before baking. Wrap each pillow tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. This keeps the crispy exterior intact and the creamy filling deliciously warm.

Leftover Gravy: Store extra gravy in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy consistency.

What to Serve with Chicken Pillows

Enhance your dinner experience with these delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of Chicken Pillows.

Steamed Broccoli:
This bright green veggie adds a crunchy texture that balances the creamy filling, while its subtle flavor lets the chicken shine.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up the gravy perfectly, offering a heavenly combination of comfort flavors.
Fresh Garden Salad:
A crisp salad with mixed greens and colorful veggies brings a refreshing contrast, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Roasted Carrots:
Their natural sweetness caramelizes as they roast, providing a lovely flavor harmony with the savory Chicken Pillows.
Cheesy Biscuit Bites:
These warm, fluffy biscuits are great for dipping in gravy and add a delightful cheesy twist to the meal.
Mushroom Gravy:
For something different, try topping your Chicken Pillows with a savory mushroom gravy instead—it’s earthy and comforting.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts:
Roasted until crispy, Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of your dish.
Iced Sweet Tea:
This classic Southern beverage makes a perfect pairing, offering a sweet and refreshing complement to your comforting dinner.
Apple Crisp:
End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp; the cinnamon and buttery flavors provide the perfect delicious closure.

Expert Tips for Chicken Pillows

Seal Well: Ensure each pillow is tightly sealed to prevent any accidental leaks during baking, keeping all that creamy chicken filling inside.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic to the filling for an extra layer of flavor that elevates the classic Chicken Pillows.
Crispy Perfection: For an extra crunchy texture, bake the pillows on a wire rack set over the baking sheet; this allows air to circulate for an even bake.
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap in different proteins or ingredients. Try ham and cheese or a veggie-filled version for fun variations!
Gravy Variations: You can customize the gravy to your taste; experimenting with mushroom gravy can add a delightful twist to your Chicken Pillows.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

Chicken Pillows: Creative Variations

Feel free to make these Chicken Pillows uniquely yours by mixing up the flavors and textures!

Gravy Twist: Try a Mushroom Gravy for an earthy flavor boost that complements its creamy filling perfectly. A classic combination for an extra hearty meal!
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, swap the chicken for a Spinach and Feta filling. This creates a lighter, yet still satisfying, alternative your guests will love.
Cordon Bleu Style: Substitute the chicken with thinly sliced Ham and Cheese to create a Chicken Cordon Bleu-inspired pillow. This delightful reimagining is sure to impress!
Heat-It-Up: Add diced Jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for a spicy kick. A great way to energize the meal for those who like it hot!
Creamy Basil Sauce: Instead of traditional gravy, top your pillows with a Basil Cream Sauce for a fresh, fragrant twist. It’s a delightful way to brighten up the dish!
Flavor Boost: Mix in some Garlic Powder or freshly minced garlic into the filling to elevate that comforting savory flavor even more. It’s small, but impactful!
Texture Variation: Consider using Panko Breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy exterior that complements the soft, creamy filling inside.
Swap the Gravy: Want something different? A Brown Gravy can provide a rich, savory flavor while still being familiar and comforting. Perfect for those less adventurous family members!

These variations can help suit any mood, occasion, or dietary preference. Whether you stick with the original or explore these delightful twists, one thing’s for sure: you’re about to create a cozy meal that everyone will adore!

Chicken Pillows with Creamy Gravy Recipe FAQs

What type of cooked chicken is best for Chicken Pillows?
Absolutely! For Chicken Pillows, I recommend using about 10 ounces of cooked shredded chicken breast, which is roughly 2 cups. A rotisserie chicken makes for an excellent shortcut, delivering that delicious, tender flavor without taking too much time. This gives your pillows heartiness with minimal effort.

How should I store leftover Chicken Pillows?
Very! To keep your Chicken Pillows fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will ensure they retain their delightful texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I suggest reheating them in the oven for the best results. Just pop them back in at 350°F (175°C) until they’re warmed through.

Can I freeze Chicken Pillows?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Pillows, wrap each prepared, unbaked pillow tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake them, there’s no need to thaw! Just bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, ensuring they’re cooked perfectly while keeping that crispy exterior.

What if my Chicken Pillows leak while baking?
Don’t worry! If you find that some of your Chicken Pillows leak, it usually means they weren’t sealed tightly enough. Make sure the edges are pressed firmly together after you fold the corners. If leakage occurs, simply keep an eye on them during baking and they may need a little extra time for everything to heat through. For future batches, seal them extra well and maybe try a fork to crimp the edges for added security.

Can I make Chicken Pillows gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free Chicken Pillows, simply use gluten-free crescent roll dough or a similar gluten-free pastry dough that you can find at specialty stores. For the breadcrumbs, opt for gluten-free breadcrumb alternatives or crushed, gluten-free crackers. These swaps will keep your Chicken Pillows just as delightful while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Can I use different fillings for my Chicken Pillows?
Of course! The beauty of Chicken Pillows is their versatility. While creamy chicken is delicious, feel free to experiment with other fillings. For instance, try ham and cheese for a Chicken Cordon Bleu twist or mix in some spinach and feta for a veggie lovers’ delight. The more the merrier!