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Crispy Chicken Pillows with Parmesan Sauce

crispy chicken pillows - featured image

Crispy chicken pillows are golden, crunchy pockets filled with tender chicken, served with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy homemade recipe is perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced or pounded thin
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (mixed with breadcrumbs)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ¾ cup (75g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil or thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Slice or pound chicken breasts into thin, even pieces about ¼ inch (6mm) thick. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up dredging stations: bowl 1 with flour seasoned with salt and pepper; bowl 2 with beaten eggs; bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into flour, shaking off excess, then into egg, and finally into breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place coated pieces on a plate.
  4. Roll or fold each coated piece into a small pillow shape. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 350°F / 175°C).
  6. Fry chicken pillows in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  7. To make Parmesan sauce: melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. Add chopped herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once thickened but pourable.
  10. Serve chicken pillows hot with Parmesan sauce drizzled over or on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid burning or sogginess. Prepare Parmesan sauce last minute for silky smooth texture. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. To keep pillows crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan and reheat in oven if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken pillows, Parmesan sauce, family dinner, easy chicken recipe, homemade chicken pockets, panko chicken, comfort food