Craving a delicious meal that’s easy to whip up? Let me introduce you to Chicken Parmesan Pillows! This tasty dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and flaky pastry for a bite-sized treat everyone will love. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful dish that impresses family and friends. Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Let’s dive into the savory world of Chicken Parmesan Pillows!
Ingredients
Full List of Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package (1 lb) refrigerated puff pastry sheets
– 1 cup marinara sauce, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key for making Chicken Parmesan Pillows. Start with one pound of chicken breast. Cook and shred it before mixing. The chicken gives a strong base for flavor. Next, grab ricotta cheese. One cup will make the filling creamy and rich.
You will also need mozzarella cheese. One cup of shredded mozzarella blends well with the other flavors. Parmesan cheese adds a salty touch, so use half a cup for depth. For binding, an egg works well. It helps hold the filling together.
Season your mixture with one teaspoon of garlic powder and Italian seasoning. This will enhance the overall taste. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to suit your taste.
For the outer layer, use one package of refrigerated puff pastry sheets. They create a flaky crust that everyone loves. Finally, have one cup of marinara sauce ready for dipping. Fresh basil leaves make a nice garnish and add color.
You can find the Full Recipe in the instructions. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment.
– In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken and ricotta cheese.
– Add mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese to the chicken mix.
– Now, stir in the beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
– Combine everything until it’s well mixed and creamy.
Assembling the Pillows
– Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface until smooth.
– Cut the pastry into four squares. Each square should be about 5 inches wide.
– Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mix in the center of each square.
– Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle.
– Press the edges tightly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
Baking
– Brush the tops of the pillows with melted butter or beaten egg. This gives a golden color.
– Place the filled pillows on the prepared baking sheet.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
– While the pillows bake, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
– Once done, let the pillows cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
This simple recipe makes Chicken Parmesan Pillows a delightful treat. Enjoy your cooking! Check the Full Recipe for more details.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Chicken Parmesan Pillows
– Choosing the right chicken breast: Select fresh, boneless chicken breasts for the best flavor. They should be firm and pink, not gray. Avoid chicken with a strong smell.
– Working with puff pastry: Keep the puff pastry cold. If it warms up, it can be hard to handle. Roll it out on a floured surface. This helps to avoid sticking. Cut the pastry into squares. Each square should be about 4 inches wide.
– Cooking times and temperature adjustments: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the pastry cooks evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Watch for a golden color on top. If your oven runs hot, check early to avoid burning.
Presentation Tips
– Creative serving ideas with marinara sauce: Serve the pillows with warm marinara sauce on the side. You can also drizzle sauce over the pillows for extra flavor. A small bowl of sauce adds a nice touch for dipping.
– Garnishing suggestions with fresh herbs: Use fresh basil leaves to add color and flavor. Simply place a few leaves on top of each pillow. Chopped parsley also works well for a fresh look. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top can enhance the dish too.
For more detailed steps, check the [Full Recipe].
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can get creative with your Chicken Parmesan Pillows by swapping out some ingredients. Here are a few tasty options:
– Use different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or try vegan cheese for a dairy-free twist.
– Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor and color.
These changes can bring new life to this dish and suit your taste.
Cooking Methods
There are two main ways to cook your Chicken Parmesan Pillows, each giving a different result.
– Air Fryer Instructions: This method cuts down on oil and gives you a healthy option. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the filled pillows in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
– Deep Frying: For a crispy texture, heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few pillows at a time, about 3-4 minutes, until they puff up and turn golden. Drain on paper towels after frying.
Both methods will give you delicious results.
Dietary Modifications
If you have dietary needs, you can still enjoy these pillows with some simple swaps.
– For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free puff pastry. Many brands offer this now, and it works just as well!
– You can also make low-carb variations. Instead of puff pastry, wrap the filling in thin slices of chicken or zucchini. This option is great for those watching carbs.
These modifications keep the dish tasty while fitting your diet.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chicken Parmesan Pillows fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their texture. Refrigerate them for up to three days.
When reheating, use an oven instead of a microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pillows on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy.
Freezing
You can freeze Chicken Parmesan Pillows either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, arrange the filled pillows on a baking sheet. Place them in the freezer for about one hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together.
To freeze after baking, let the pillows cool completely. Wrap each pillow in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They will last up to three months.
When ready to eat, thaw the pillows in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, follow the oven method mentioned earlier, but increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy them warm!
For the Full Recipe, check the details above.
FAQs
Common Questions About Chicken Parmesan Pillows
How long does it take to make Chicken Parmesan Pillows?
It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 20 minutes prepping and 25 minutes baking.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes, you can make the filling a day ahead. Store it in the fridge until you are ready.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Pillows?
Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping. A side salad or garlic bread also pairs well.
Related Questions
How do I know when the pillows are cooked through?
The pillows are ready when they are puffed and golden brown. Check for a crispy top and sides.
Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can use turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat. Just ensure it’s cooked before mixing.
What’s the best way to make the pillows extra crispy?
Brush the tops with melted butter or egg wash before baking. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
In this post, we covered how to make Chicken Parmesan Pillows. You learned about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. We explored different variations to suit your taste. Remember to store leftovers correctly for fresh meals later. This dish offers a fun twist on a classic favorite. With your new skills, you can impress family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious pillows!
