Introduction

These Chicken Empanadas savory, golden pastries are filled with a flavorful, well-seasoned chicken filling and wrapped in a perfectly flaky crust. Whether baked or fried, each bite delivers a satisfying blend of juicy shredded chicken, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables, making them a go-to comfort food for any occasion.

I still remember the first time I made these for a family gathering—everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious and satisfying they were. What makes empanadas so special is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a quick snack, a hearty appetizer, or even a full meal when paired with a fresh salad or dipping sauce.

Whether you stick to the classic version or put your own twist on the filling, these empanadas are always a crowd-pleaser. Their crispy, golden crust combined with the rich, savory filling makes them an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Perfect for:

Meal prepping
Family dinners
Lunch on the go
Party appetizers
Picnics and gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Empanadas

Here’s why Chicken Empanadas will become a staple in your kitchen:

Flaky and Buttery Crust: The homemade dough bakes up light, crispy, and golden brown.
Savory and Flavorful Filling: The shredded chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices, garlic, onions, and peppers for a well-balanced, rich flavor.
Versatile: Enjoy them baked for a lighter option or fried for a crispy, indulgent treat.
Easy to Make Ahead: The dough and filling can be made in advance, making it a convenient dish for meal prepping.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the filling with different proteins, vegetables, or spices to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 12 empanadas
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Empanadas:

For the Dough:

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

Chicken Filling:

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup onion, finely chopped
½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
¼ cup tomato sauce
¼ cup chicken broth
¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water

Ingredient Highlights

All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and a crisp yet tender bite.
Butter: Adds flakiness to the empanada dough, ensuring a rich and golden crust.
Shredded Chicken: A great protein choice that absorbs the flavors of the seasonings well.
Spices: Cumin, paprika, and oregano give the filling an aromatic depth.
Olives and Hard-Boiled Egg: Classic additions that add extra flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Empanadas:

Prepare the Dough:

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Incorporate Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, water, and vinegar. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead and Chill: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Chicken Filling:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another minute.
Combine with Chicken: Add the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Final Additions: Stir in chopped olives and hard-boiled egg (if using). Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before assembling.

Assemble and Bake the Empanadas:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut out 4- to 5-inch circles using a cutter or a small bowl.
Fill and Fold: Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Bake: Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be served in various ways:

With Dipping Sauces: Pair with chimichurri, salsa, or a spicy aioli.
As a Main Course: Serve with a fresh salad or rice and beans for a complete meal.
For Parties: Arrange on a platter with a variety of empanadas (beef, cheese, vegetable) for an appetizer spread.
On the Go: These empanadas make a great grab-and-go lunch or snack.
With a Soup or Stew – Serve with a bowl of chicken tortilla soup, black bean soup, or caldo de pollo for a cozy combination.
As a Street-Style Snack – Wrap in parchment paper and serve with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
With a Sweet and Spicy Glaze – Brush with a honey-chipotle glaze before serving for a touch of heat and sweetness.

Additional Tips for Chicken Empanadas

Use Cold Butter: Keeping the butter cold ensures a flaky dough.
Don’t Overfill: Overfilling may cause the empanadas to burst open while baking.
Seal Well: Make sure the edges are well-sealed to prevent leaks.
Chill Before Baking: If time allows, refrigerate the assembled empanadas for 15 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
Try Frying: For an extra crispy texture, fry the empanadas in hot oil until golden brown.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Empanadas

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Empanadas:

Cheesy Chicken Empanadas: Add shredded cheese to the filling.
Spicy Chicken Empanadas: Increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños.
BBQ Chicken Empanadas: Mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Buffalo Chicken Empanadas: Toss chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
Mushroom and Chicken Empanadas: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
Creamy Chicken Empanadas: Stir in a bit of cream cheese for a creamy filling.
Spinach and Chicken Empanadas: Add chopped spinach for a nutritious boost.
Sweet and Spicy Empanadas: Include a touch of honey or raisins for a sweet contrast.
Curry Chicken Empanadas: Add curry powder and coconut milk for a fusion flavor.
Mini Empanadas: Make smaller, bite-sized empanadas for appetizers.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Empanadas

Freezing: Assemble the empanadas, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Storage: Store baked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Special Equipment for Chicken Empanadas

Pastry Cutter: Helps mix butter into the flour.
Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly.
Dough Cutter or Small Bowl: For cutting uniform circles.
Baking Sheet: For baking the empanadas.
Fork: To crimp the edges.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Empanadas

What type of dough is best for chicken empanadas?
- Traditional empanada dough is flaky and buttery, similar to pie crust. You can also use store-bought puff pastry or even tortillas for a shortcut.

What seasonings are commonly used in chicken empanadas?
- Common seasonings include cumin, paprika, garlic, onion, oregano, and sometimes a touch of chili powder or cayenne for heat.

Can I bake chicken empanadas instead of frying them?
- Yes! Baking results in a slightly less crispy texture but is healthier. Brush them with an egg wash before baking for a golden brown finish.
What can I add to the chicken filling for extra flavor?
- Popular additions include sautéed onions, bell peppers, olives, raisins, cheese, or hard-boiled eggs, depending on the regional variation.
How do I keep my empanadas from opening while cooking?
- Make sure to seal the edges well by crimping with a fork or twisting the dough. You can also chill them before baking or frying to help maintain their shape.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a delicious, portable treat packed with flavor. Whether baked or fried, they boast a crispy, golden crust and a juicy, spiced chicken filling that’s perfect for any occasion.

These empanadas are easy to customize and make ahead—freeze them for later and enjoy a homemade snack or meal whenever you like. Whether served as a party appetizer, a quick lunch, or a comforting dinner, they’re always a hit.

I’d love to see your Chicken Empanadas! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!

Chicken Empanadas