Chicken Empanadas

Introduction

Chicken Empanadas are a savory and satisfying treat, featuring a flaky, golden pastry filled with a flavorful, seasoned chicken mixture. Perfectly spiced and often paired with a side of tangy dipping sauce, these empanadas are versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish.

I first made these empanadas for a family gathering, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The combination of the crisp, golden crust and the tender, well-seasoned chicken filling creates the perfect bite. You can bake them for a lighter option or fry them for an extra crunchy exterior, either way, they’re delicious. The tangy dipping sauce is the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of flavor with every bite.

These empanadas are perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive celebrations. Their portability and rich flavor make them a go-to choice whenever you’re looking for something comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for:

• Parties and gatherings
• Game day snacks
• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• Serving with sides like salads or rice

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Empanadas

Here’s why Chicken Empanadas will become your new favorite:

• Flavorful Filling: The seasoned chicken, combined with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, creates a savory and juicy filling that’s packed with flavor.
• Crispy and Golden Crust: The pastry dough turns perfectly golden and crispy when baked or fried, providing the ideal contrast to the tender filling.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling with additional vegetables, cheese, or even herbs to make it your own.
• Make Ahead: These empanadas can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, making them an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute snacks.
• Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, but it still feels like a special treat.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 12 empanadas
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Empanadas:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)

Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup cold water (more if needed)
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Oil for frying (if frying)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the base of the filling, offering a hearty, protein-packed bite.
• Cumin and Paprika: These spices give the filling a rich, earthy flavor, with a slight smokiness from the paprika.
• Butter in the Dough: The chilled butter helps create a flaky and tender dough for the empanadas.
• Fresh Cilantro and Lime: These add a burst of freshness and a zesty kick to the filling, balancing the savory flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Empanadas:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook your chicken breasts or thighs by boiling, roasting, or sautéing. Once cooked, shred it using a fork.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper (if using), and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Season the Filling: Add shredded chicken to the pan. Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
4. Add Extra Ingredients: If desired, stir in peas, cilantro, tomato paste, and lime juice. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let the filling cool while you prepare the dough.

Prepare the Dough:

5. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, and sugar. Add chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, vinegar, and cold water. Gradually add this to the dry ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together. If needed, add a little more cold water, one tablespoon at a time.
7. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Assemble the Empanadas:

8. Roll the Dough: After chilling, divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten into a 5-6 inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
9. Fill the Empanadas: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into the center of each dough circle.
10. Seal the Edges: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together, then crimp them with a fork to seal tightly. You can also fold over the edges for a decorative finish.
11. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baking.

Bake or Fry:

• For Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
• For Frying: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas can be served in many ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with salsa, sour cream, or a tangy chimichurri sauce for extra flavor.
• As Part of a Meal: Pair with a side of rice, salad, or beans for a complete meal.
• For Parties: Serve as appetizers with a variety of dips for guests to enjoy.
• For Meal Prep: Make a batch in advance, store in the fridge or freezer, and heat up whenever needed.
• With a Cold Drink: Pair with iced tea, a cold beer, or a lime-based cocktail for a refreshing treat.

Additional Tips for Chicken Empanadas

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Empanadas are perfect every time:

• Use Cold Butter for Flaky Dough: Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky and tender dough, so don’t skip the chilling step.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning in the filling to suit your taste. Add more chili powder for heat or extra lime juice for brightness.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze assembled, unbaked empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
• Don’t Overstuff: Be sure not to overstuff the empanadas, as this can cause them to break open during cooking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as shredded beef, pork, or vegetables for variety.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Empanadas

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Empanadas:

• Cheese and Chicken Empanadas: Add a handful of shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar) to the filling for a creamy, melty interior.
• Spinach and Chicken Empanadas: Add cooked spinach to the filling for a lighter, more earthy flavor.
• Chicken and Corn Empanadas: Mix in some corn kernels for a sweet contrast to the spiced chicken filling.
• Buffalo Chicken Empanadas: Add buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy, tangy twist.
• Chicken and Black Bean Empanadas: Incorporate black beans into the filling for added texture and fiber.
• BBQ Chicken Empanadas: Swap the seasoning for barbecue sauce and shredded chicken for a smoky, sweet filling.
• Chicken and Avocado Empanadas: Add diced avocado to the filling for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Sweet and Savory Chicken Empanadas: Mix in some dried fruit like raisins or apricots for a sweet and savory combination.
• Vegetarian Empanadas: Skip the chicken and use a combination of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and peppers.
• Pineapple and Chicken Empanadas: Add pineapple for a tropical flair to the filling.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Empanadas

• Freezing: Freeze the empanadas before baking by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
• Storage: Store cooked empanadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment for Chicken Empanadas

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Empanadas easier:

• Pastry Cutter: A pastry cutter helps you cut in the butter to create the perfect dough consistency.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin ensures the dough is evenly rolled out for consistent-sized empanadas.
• Cookie Cutter or Bowl: To help cut out even dough circles for the empanadas.
• Deep Fryer or Large Skillet: If frying, a deep fryer or large skillet will ensure even cooking.
• Basting Brush: For applying the egg wash evenly to the empanadas.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Empanadas

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
2. Can I freeze the empanadas after baking?
   Yes, baked empanadas freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
3. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes, you can use store-bought empanada dough for a quicker option. Just follow the same steps for the filling and assembly.
4. Can I make these empanadas gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. What can I substitute for cilantro?
   If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or basil as a substitute for a different herbaceous flavor.

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Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are the perfect blend of crispy, flaky pastry and a savory, flavorful chicken filling. Whether you bake or fry them, they’re always a hit! These delicious handheld treats are versatile enough to enjoy as a snack, meal, or appetizer, making them ideal for any occasion. With endless customization options for the filling, you can add your favorite spices, veggies, or even cheese to make them uniquely yours.

Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself, these empanadas are guaranteed to impress.

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