Easy 30-minute chicken pillows

These chicken pillows combine creamy chicken filling with buttery crescent rolls for a satisfying dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. With a savory cream cheese and chicken mixture wrapped in flaky crescents and coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, this family-friendly meal delivers home-cooked comfort with minimal effort.

I've been making these chicken pillows for years as my go-to solution for hectic weeknights. They've saved dinner countless times when I needed something comforting that wouldn't keep me in the kitchen for hours.

Essential Ingredients

• For the Creamy Filling:
• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) chicken: Pre-cooked convenience that makes this truly quick
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates rich, creamy texture throughout
• 3 green onions, chopped: Adds fresh flavor and subtle onion notes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory depth without the work of fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds color and herbal notes
• For the Exterior:
• 2 packages (8 oz each) original crescent rolls: Creates the flaky, buttery wrapper
• ½ cup plain breadcrumbs: Forms a delicious crispy coating
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Enhances the breadcrumb exterior

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Having everything ready before you start assembling makes the process much smoother. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the drained and flaked canned chicken (or 2½ cups cooked, shredded chicken), softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and creamy with no large chunks of cream cheese remaining.

Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate along the perforations into triangles. Slightly flatten each triangle to create more surface area for filling. This helps ensure you can completely enclose the chicken mixture.

Step 4: Fill and Form the Pillows

Place approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture on the wider end of each crescent triangle. Carefully roll the crescent from the wide end toward the pointed end, tucking in the sides as you go to completely seal the filling inside. Gently shape into a ball-like form.

Step 5: Create the Seasoned Coating

In a small bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. Roll each filled crescent in this mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. The breadcrumbs will adhere naturally to the slightly sticky dough, but if you're having trouble, a light brush of melted butter helps them stick.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the coated chicken pillows on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for expansion. Bake for 10-14 minutes, until they're golden brown and the crescent dough is cooked through.

Pin it

I've found that good quality canned chicken (like Kirkland Signature from Costco) actually works better than freshly cooked chicken in this recipe - it has the perfect texture and moisture level for mixing with cream cheese.

Simple Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes customization. Try adding a tablespoon of ranch seasoning to the filling for a zesty twist, or mix in some shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness. You can also add finely diced bell peppers or olives for more texture and flavor.

After making these countless times, I've discovered that the key to perfect chicken pillows is in the balance between filling and dough. Too much filling makes them difficult to seal and prone to leaking, while too little leaves you wanting more of that creamy chicken goodness. The two tablespoons per crescent ratio creates that perfect bite every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe. You'll need about 2½ cups of shredded chicken. Canned chicken also works well and makes the prep even faster.

→ How do I store leftover chicken pillows?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze these chicken pillows?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. To freeze before baking, place assembled pillows on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with chicken pillows?

These go great with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even just some steamed broccoli. You can also serve them with a side of gravy or cream sauce for dipping.

→ Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Absolutely! Flavored cream cheese like garlic & herb, chive and onion, or garden vegetable adds extra flavor to these chicken pillows and works wonderfully in this recipe.