Creamy Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Sauce – Comfort in Every Bite
If comfort food had a crown, Creamy Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Sauce would be wearing it. Imagine tender, pillowy pasta stuffed with savory chicken and herbs, bathed in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce so rich it practically melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors: the softness of the pillows, the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the subtle, aromatic herbs that elevate this dish from a simple dinner to a culinary indulgence.
This recipe is not just about taste — it’s an experience. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a small family gathering, or impressing guests with homemade gourmet flair, these Chicken Pillows will shine. Perfectly balanced, easy to assemble, and made from accessible ingredients, this dish will become a mainstay in your comfort food rotation.
In this article, you’ll learn not only how to assemble the chicken pillows and make the creamy Parmesan sauce, but also tips on making your pasta perfectly tender, enhancing flavor with fresh herbs, plating like a professional, and storing leftovers while keeping their luscious texture intact. By the end, you’ll be equipped to make a dish that tastes like it belongs in a fine Italian trattoria — but from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Pillows
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12–16 pasta sheets or premade pasta pillows
For the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Filling
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Assemble the Chicken Pillows
- Lay out pasta sheets or premade pasta pillows on a clean surface.
- Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of chicken filling onto each pasta piece.
- Fold or seal the pasta around the filling, ensuring edges are pinched tightly to prevent leakage.
- If using pasta sheets, brush edges with a little water or egg wash to seal.
Cook the Chicken Pillows
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Gently drop the Chicken Pillows into the boiling water. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until they float to the surface and are tender.
- Carefully remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
Combine and Serve
- Add cooked Chicken Pillows to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with sauce.
- Plate the Chicken Pillows, spooning extra sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
- Serve immediately for maximum creaminess and flavor.
Extra Tips & Creative Notes
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or white pepper to the sauce for subtle depth.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can add a gourmet twist.
- Make Ahead: Assemble Chicken Pillows ahead of time and refrigerate; cook when ready to serve.
- Presentation: Drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic reduction for restaurant-style plating.
