Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Empanadas offer a delicious taste of Latin cuisine, blending savory, tender chicken with a medley of flavorful spices encased in a crispy, flaky pastry. Each bite reveals a hearty filling of shredded chicken, sautéed with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a mix of spices that add warmth and depth. These empanadas embody the comfort and tradition of Latin dishes, while their hand-held form makes them versatile for various occasions.

Perfectly golden and crisp on the outside, these empanadas are ideal for everything from a quick snack to a satisfying meal. Whether served as an appetizer for special gatherings, enjoyed as a light lunch, or taken on-the-go, they bring convenience without sacrificing flavor. The filling can be customized by adding ingredients like olives, hard-boiled eggs, or even cheese to create your own unique twist.

For a memorable presentation, serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as chimichurri, spicy salsa, or a creamy cilantro lime dip. The balance of crispy pastry and juicy, well-seasoned filling ensures that these empanadas will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Not only are they delicious, but they can also be prepared ahead of time and frozen for future use, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. With every bite, Chicken Empanadas transport you to a world of rich flavors and comforting textures, offering a satisfying culinary experience that celebrates the best of traditional Latin-inspired cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why the Chicken Empanadas will quickly become a favorite:

• Perfectly Crispy Crust: The golden, flaky pastry is baked to perfection, giving each bite a delightful crunch.
• Savory Filling: Packed with seasoned chicken, vegetables, and spices, the filling offers a flavorful, comforting experience.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, party appetizer, or snack on-the-go, these empanadas fit every occasion.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for a convenient, homemade meal anytime.
• Easy to Customize: Add cheese, olives, or different vegetables to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Kid-Friendly: The handheld size and tasty filling make these empanadas a hit with children and adults alike.
• Travel-Friendly: Ideal for packing in lunchboxes or taking on picnics, as they don’t require utensils to enjoy.
• Delicious Hot or Cold: Tastes great fresh out of the oven or enjoyed at room temperature, making them versatile for serving.
• Affordable Ingredients: Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
• Traditional Comfort Food: Brings the flavors of Latin American cuisine to your kitchen, offering a taste of homemade comfort food.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 12 empanadas
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbohydrates: 25g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Chicken Empanadas:

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup cold water

the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Ingredient Highlights

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for creating the empanada dough.
• Cooked Chicken: Adds protein and makes for a hearty filling.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness to the filling.
• Green Olives: Optional, but they add a nice briny flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to make your own Chicken Empanadas:

Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Beat the egg with the cold water, then add it to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Knead briefly to form a smooth dough, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, olives, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the mixture is well combined and heated through. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Empanadas

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4- or 5-inch round cutter.
• Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.

Apply the Egg Wash

• Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake the Empanadas

• Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

• Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve

Here are some tasty ways to serve Chicken Empanadas:

• With Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or a spicy aioli to enhance the flavors.
• On a Platter: Arrange the empanadas on a serving platter with fresh herbs for an inviting presentation.
• Garnished with Cilantro: Top with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness.
• Accompanied by Rice: Pair with a side of seasoned rice or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
• As Appetizers: Cut the empanadas into smaller pieces and serve as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.
• With Sour Cream or Yogurt: Provide a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy, cooling contrast.
• With Pickled Vegetables: Serve with a side of pickled onions or jalapeños for a tangy and spicy kick.
• Topped with Avocado: Add slices of avocado or a dollop of avocado crema on top for added creaminess.
• Accompanied by a Beverage: Serve with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or a fruit-infused water, to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

To make your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the empanada dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps to keep the fat cold, resulting in a flakier crust.
2. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy filling, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch.
3. Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken filling with herbs and spices. Cumin, paprika, and garlic powder add great flavor.
4. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with fillings. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or using different proteins like beef or cheese.
5. Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking or frying. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
6. Brush with Egg Wash: For a golden-brown finish, brush the tops of the empanadas with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water) before baking.
7. Bake for a Healthier Option: While frying gives a delicious crispy texture, baking the empanadas at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes can be a healthier alternative.
8. Freeze for Later: Uncooked empanadas freeze well. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to three months.
9. Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair your empanadas with various dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to enhance the flavors.
10. Adjust Cooking Time: If using a different size or type of dough, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller empanadas may require less time, while larger ones may need more.

These tips will help you create delicious and perfectly cooked chicken empanadas!

Recipe Variations

Here are some variations to try with Chicken Empanadas:

• Spicy Chicken Empanadas: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken filling for a kick of heat.
• Vegetable-Stuffed Empanadas: Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach with the chicken for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Cheesy Chicken Empanadas: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, into the filling for a creamy, gooey texture.
• BBQ Chicken Empanadas: Replace the traditional seasoning with BBQ sauce and shredded chicken for a smoky, sweet flavor profile.
• Southwestern Chicken Empanadas: Use black beans, corn, and taco seasoning in the filling for a Southwest-inspired variation.
• Herbed Chicken Empanadas: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the chicken mixture for an aromatic touch.
• Curry Chicken Empanadas: Spice up the filling with curry powder and add diced potatoes for a unique flavor combination.
• Sweet Chicken Empanadas: For a sweet twist, add diced apples or pears and cinnamon to the chicken filling.
• Baked Chicken Empanadas: Opt for a healthier version by baking the empanadas instead of frying them, brushing with olive oil for a golden finish.
• Mini Chicken Empanadas: Make smaller, bite-sized versions of the empanadas for appetizers or party snacks, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

These variations allow you to customize your empanadas to suit your taste or occasion!

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store and freeze your Chicken Empanadas:

• Storage: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, arrange unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Special Equipment

Here are some helpful kitchen tools for making Chicken Empanadas:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dough ingredients and mixing the chicken filling.
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly for the empanada shells.
• Baking Sheet: To place the assembled empanadas before baking them in the oven.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent the empanadas from sticking.
• Pastry Cutter or Dough Scraper: Useful for cutting the dough into circles or handling sticky dough.
• Fork: To crimp the edges of the empanadas, ensuring they are sealed properly.
• Cooking Pot or Skillet: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables for the filling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients for both the dough and filling.
• Food Processor (optional): For quickly mixing the dough if you prefer a more hands-off approach.
• Cooling Rack: To allow the baked empanadas to cool properly before serving.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Empanadas:

• Can I make the dough in advance?
  Yes, the dough can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
  Yes, frying is an option for a different texture.
• Can I use pre-made pastry dough?
  Yes, store-bought pastry dough can be used for convenience.

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Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to please. These flaky pastries, filled with a savory chicken mixture, provide the perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness. Whether served as a main dish, a snack, or an appetizer, these empanadas are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of spices and ingredients creates a comforting taste that will have everyone coming back for more.

With easy preparation and endless customization options, you can make these empanadas your own by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Enjoy them warm from the oven, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, for a truly satisfying experience.

Try out this recipe and enjoy the savory, comforting taste of these delicious pastries. I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Empanadas turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking!