Get ready to enjoy a tasty twist on classic flavors with these Chicken Parmesan Pillows! In this easy recipe guide, I’ll walk you through making these fluffy pastries filled with chicken, cheese, and marinara. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, these delightful pillows are sure to impress. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this savory dish that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Delicious: This recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a cozy, handheld format that is perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Prepare: Using puff pastry makes the preparation quick and simple, allowing for a delicious meal without the hassle of traditional breading and frying.
- Customizable Filling: You can easily modify the filling to include your favorite cheeses or add vegetables, making it a versatile dish for different tastes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These chicken parmesan pillows can be made ahead of time and frozen, ready to be baked whenever you’re in need of an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
For this dish, I use cooked and shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for speed. The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese gives a great taste. Marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor to the filling.
Puff Pastry and Seasonings
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
I love using puff pastry for its flaky texture. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add a nice kick to the mix. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Additional Elements
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
An egg wash gives the pillows a shiny, golden look when baked. Fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish. They add a burst of color and freshness to your plate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of marinara sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Assembling the Chicken Parmesan Pillows
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the sheet into 4 equal squares.
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a pillow shape. Press down the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a fun look.
Baking the Pillows
- In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg and brush it over the tops of each pillow for a shiny finish.
- Place the pillows on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. After baking, let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with extra marinara sauce on the side and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Puff Pastry
To roll out puff pastry, start with a cold sheet. It makes the dough easy to work with. Lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick for the best results. Then, cut it into four equal squares.
When sealing the edges, press firmly to close the pillows. You can use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals them but also gives a pretty look. Make sure no filling leaks out during baking.
Flavored Variations
Adding herbs and spices can elevate your pillows. Try fresh basil or thyme to boost flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Experimenting with seasonings makes each batch unique.
For cheese options, mozzarella is a classic choice. You can use provolone or gouda for a twist. Mixing different cheeses adds depth and richness to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your chicken parmesan pillows with marinara sauce for dipping. A fresh salad also complements the meal well. Garlic bread makes for a lovely side too.
For garnishes, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. A dash of grated Parmesan adds visual appeal. These simple touches make your dish look restaurant-quality and inviting.
Pro Tips
- Tip for Perfect Puff: Ensure your puff pastry is cold before working with it. This helps achieve a flaky and crispy texture once baked.
- Tip for Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken filling for a subtle kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Tip for Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning on all sides of the pillows.
- Tip for Serving: Serve these pillows with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce.
Variations
Chicken Parmesan Pillow Alternatives
You can switch the chicken for turkey or other proteins. Ground turkey works well and keeps the dish lean. You can also use shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a twist. For vegetarian options, mushrooms or spinach make great fillers. Sauté the mushrooms first for a deeper flavor. Spinach adds a nice color and nutrition.
Different Inside Fillings
Get creative with your mix-ins! Try adding diced peppers or black olives for extra taste. They add a nice crunch and flavor. You can also change the cheese types. Instead of mozzarella, use provolone or gouda for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses can give you a rich and creamy filling.
Serving in Different Styles
You can make bite-sized appetizers by cutting the pastry into smaller squares. These can be perfect for parties. For a main dish, serve the pillows with a side salad or garlic bread. This makes a complete meal. You can also drizzle some marinara sauce on top for extra flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken parmesan pillows fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and air out. You can store them in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pillows on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. You might also use an air fryer for quick reheating.
Freezing Options
To freeze unbaked pillows, prepare them as normal but do not bake. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time. This ensures they are warm and crispy when served.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor. Just shred it and mix it with the other ingredients. This method works well for busy days when you want a quick meal.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use several options for marinara sauce. Try Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even barbecue sauce. Each choice gives a new taste. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination.
How do I know when the pillows are done baking?
The pillows are done when they are golden brown and puffed up. You should see a nice shine from the egg wash. If you tap on the top, it should sound hollow. This means the inside is cooked well.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these pillows ahead of time. Assemble them and place them in the fridge. Just bake them just before serving. This way, you enjoy fresh, warm pillows without much work later.
In this post, we covered how to make delicious Chicken Parmesan Pillows. We explored key ingredients like chicken, cheese, and puff pastry. I shared simple steps from prepping to baking. You learned how to perfect the pastry and get creative with flavors. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheating tips.
These tasty pillows are easy to adapt for any diet or occasion. Enjoy the fun of making them with family or friend
Chicken Parmesan Pillows
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets)
- 1 egg for egg wash
- to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well coated and combined.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the sheet into 4 equal squares.
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling to form a pillow shape and press down the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for added decoration.
- Repeat the process with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of each pillow for a shiny finish.
- Place the pillows on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with additional marinara sauce on the side and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
