If you crave a dish that’s easy and full of flavor, you’ve got to try Chicken Parmesan Pillows! These delightful pockets of goodness combine tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and savory herbs in flaky pastry. Perfect for dinner or a snack, they are sure to please everyone at your table. Ready to learn how to make this tasty treat? Let’s dive into the simple steps that will have your kitchen smelling amazing!
Ingredients
Required Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
– 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather these tasty ingredients to make Chicken Parmesan Pillows. First, you need cooked chicken breast. Shred it into small pieces. Next, creamy ricotta cheese adds great texture. Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick. Then, add shredded mozzarella cheese for that stretchy goodness. Marinara sauce brings everything together with flavor. Don’t forget garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra taste. Use salt and pepper to season it just right.
For the pastry, grab a package of puff pastry. This will make your pillows light and flaky. You will also need one egg for the wash. This helps the tops turn golden brown. Lastly, fresh basil leaves give a nice touch when serving.
With these ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful dish that everyone will love. If you want to dive deeper into the cooking process, check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Setup
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Making the Filling
– Combine the following ingredients in a bowl:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Stir well until all ingredients mix together. This filling is key to making your Chicken Parmesan Pillows tasty and creamy.
Assembling the Pillows
– Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.
– Cut each sheet into four equal squares. You will have eight squares in total.
– Take a generous tablespoon of the chicken mixture and place it in the center of each square.
– Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape.
– Press the edges firmly together and use a fork to seal them. This adds a nice design too!
Baking Instructions
– Brush the tops of each pillow with the beaten egg. This helps them turn golden brown.
– Arrange the pillows on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
– Once baked, let the Chicken Parmesan Pillows cool slightly before serving.
You can enjoy these pillows warm with marinara sauce for dipping. They are a fun and easy dish to make, perfect for any meal! For the Full Recipe, check out the details provided earlier.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Chicken Parmesan Pillows
To make the best Chicken Parmesan Pillows, you want to focus on filling. Ensure not to overfill the pastry squares. Too much filling can lead to messy pillows. You want just enough to enjoy, but not so much that it spills out while baking. When sealing the edges, use a fork to create a decorative seal. This not only looks nice but keeps the filling inside.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Parmesan Pillows warm. A small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping is perfect. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor. To make your dish pop, garnish with fresh basil. The green color and fresh taste make your pillows look and taste great.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for later. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in the oven for best texture. This way, they stay crispy and warm.
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can switch up the cheese in your Chicken Parmesan Pillows. Try provolone for a smoky flavor. Gouda also adds a creamy touch. Mixing cheeses can give you a unique taste. Experiment with what you have on hand.
Veggie Add-Ins
Want to boost the nutrition? Add veggies to the filling. Spinach adds color and taste. Mushrooms give a nice earthy flavor. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch. Each option brings its own flair to the dish.
Spice it Up
If you love heat, add red pepper flakes. Just a pinch can make a big difference. It gives your pillows a fun kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. Make it your own!
FAQs
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Pillows?
You can serve Chicken Parmesan Pillows with many tasty sides. Here are some great ideas:
– Caesar salad: Crisp lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness.
– Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
– Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrients.
– Pasta: A light spaghetti or penne dish can balance the meal.
How do I make Chicken Parmesan Pillows ahead of time?
You can prepare Chicken Parmesan Pillows in advance. Here’s how:
1. Follow the recipe to make the filling and assemble the pillows.
2. Instead of baking, place the filled pillows on a baking sheet.
3. Freeze them for up to two hours until firm.
4. Transfer the frozen pillows to a freezer bag.
5. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer.
6. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins. Here are some options:
– Ground turkey: A leaner choice that works well.
– Ground beef: Adds a hearty flavor to the pillows.
– Shredded pork: A tasty alternative for a different twist.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to match your chosen protein.
Full Recipe
Overview of Chicken Parmesan Pillows
Chicken Parmesan Pillows are a fun twist on a classic dish. They are easy to make and full of flavor. To start, you will mix cooked chicken with creamy ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. You will also add garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra taste.
The best part? You wrap this tasty filling in puff pastry. This makes them light and crispy on the outside, while being warm and cheesy inside. These pillows are a perfect comfort food that everyone loves. You can dip them in marinara sauce for extra goodness.
For a detailed guide on how to make these delightful treats, check out the Full Recipe. Happy cooking!
You’ve learned how to make Chicken Parmesan Pillows from start to finish. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step process, and tips for perfecting the dish. This recipe is great for family meals or gatherings. Feel free to experiment with cheese or veggies to make it your own. Whether served warm with marinara sauce or as a fun snack, these pillows will delight everyone. Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting dish!
