Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are the perfect handheld treat, and this Chicken Empanadas Recipe is sure to impress! These delicious pockets of flaky pastry are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned chicken, vegetables, and spices, offering the ideal balance of crispy crust and flavorful filling. Whether you're making them for a snack, a party appetizer, or a satisfying meal, these chicken empanadas are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Keep reading to learn how to make these tasty empanadas from scratch, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and serving ideas!

What are Chicken Empanadas?

Chicken Empanadas are a type of savory turnover consisting of a pastry dough filled with a flavorful chicken mixture. Empanadas are popular in many Latin American and Spanish cuisines, and they can be baked or fried, depending on preference. The fillings can vary greatly, but in this recipe, we’ll focus on a delicious chicken filling made with seasoned chicken, onions, peppers, garlic, and spices. The empanadas are wrapped in a homemade or store-bought pastry dough, then baked or fried until golden and crispy.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour – The base for the dough.
• 1 teaspoon Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 1 teaspoon Sugar – Helps with browning and adds a subtle sweetness.
• ½ cup Cold Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes) – Provides flakiness to the dough.
• 1 Egg (lightly beaten) – Helps bind the dough.
• ¼ cup Cold Water – Helps form the dough.

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoon Olive Oil – For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• 1 lb Chicken Breast (cooked and shredded) – The main protein in the empanadas.
• 1 Medium Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and texture to the filling.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (diced) – Adds color and flavor.
• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced) – Enhances the flavor of the filling.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Ground Oregano – For a herbaceous touch.
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a bit of heat, if desired.
• ¼ cup Chicken Broth – Helps keep the filling moist.
• ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped) – For a fresh, herby finish.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste – To season the filling.

For Assembly:

• 1 Egg (beaten, for egg wash) – Helps the empanadas turn golden-brown in the oven.
• Flour (for dusting) – Prevents the dough from sticking while rolling.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ons

To customize your Chicken Empanadas Recipe, here are a few optional ingredients you can add:

• ¼ cup Grated Cheese – For an extra cheesy filling (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella work well).
• ¼ cup Diced Olives – Adds a salty, briny kick to the filling.
• 1 Jalapeño (diced, seeds removed) – For a spicy version.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Chili Powder – For a bolder, smoky flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try to adapt this recipe to your taste or dietary needs:

1. Store-Bought Dough: If you're short on time, you can use store-bought empanada dough, puff pastry, or even refrigerated pie dough instead of making your own.
2. Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier filling.
3. Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker version, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and mix with the seasonings.
4. Vegan or Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms, black beans, or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough or buy pre-made gluten-free dough from the store.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make Chicken Empanadas from scratch.

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your hands or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the beaten egg and cold water, and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it forms a cohesive ball.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.
5. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. While the dough is chilling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken and chicken broth. Let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Use a round cookie cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. Re-roll any leftover dough to make more circles.
4. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together, then crimp with a fork to seal the empanada.
6. Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Empanadas

1. Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Optional: Fry the Empanadas

If you prefer fried empanadas, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving.

How to Cook Chicken Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the cooking process:

1. Make the dough: Prepare the empanada dough and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling: Cook the shredded chicken with onions, peppers, garlic, and spices.
3. Assemble the empanadas: Roll out the dough, fill with chicken mixture, and seal the edges.
4. Bake or fry: Bake in the oven or fry in oil until golden brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Empanadas:

1. Overfilling the Empanadas: Be careful not to add too much filling, as it can cause the dough to tear or prevent the edges from sealing properly.
2. Not Chilling the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out, as this will help the butter stay cold and create a flakier crust.
3. Skipping the Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash before baking! It helps give the empanadas a beautiful golden-brown color.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Empanadas are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting them:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as salsa, chimichurri, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor.
• As an Appetizer: Plate the empanadas on a platter with a side of fresh herbs or lime wedges for a colorful presentation.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with a side of rice and beans, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or appetizer, or as part of a larger meal. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• Party Platter: Arrange the empanadas on a large platter with dipping sauces and garnishes.
• Street Food Style: Serve empanadas wrapped in parchment paper for a fun, street-food-inspired presentation.
• Family-Style: Place a basket of warm empanadas at the center of the table for everyone to grab and enjoy.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas

To make your Chicken Empanadas look extra special, consider these presentation tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the empanadas before serving.
• Colorful Dips: Serve alongside vibrant, colorful dipping sauces like avocado crema or red salsa for a pop of color.
• Serve on a Wooden Board: Present the empanadas on a rustic wooden board with lime wedges and dipping sauces for a casual yet elegant look.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe Tips

1. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the empanadas ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking.
2. Freezing: Empanadas freeze well! Place unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Crispy Edges: To get extra crispy edges, make sure to press the fork firmly along the edges of the dough when sealing the empanadas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the empanada dough in advance?

Yes! The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze cooked empanadas?

Absolutely! Cooked empanadas can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best results.

Can I use puff pastry for the dough?

Yes! Puff pastry can be a great shortcut if you're looking for a flaky, buttery crust. Just be sure to roll it out slightly to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.

What’s the best way to reheat empanadas?

Reheat empanadas in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.

Conclusion

This Chicken Empanadas Recipe is a perfect blend of crispy, flaky pastry and savory chicken filling. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these empanadas are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Customize the filling to your liking with cheese, spices, or vegetables, and serve with your favorite dips for an irresistible treat. Enjoy these golden, flavorful empanadas hot out of the oven or save some for later—they’re great for freezing and reheating! Happy cooking!

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