Chicken Empanadas are a savory treasure that beautifully encapsulate the rich flavors of seasoned chicken wrapped in a delicate, flaky crust. These handheld delights are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual family dinner, or looking for a delicious snack. The golden-brown exterior is inviting, while the warm, spiced chicken filling offers a comforting burst of flavor with every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This chicken empanada recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines robust flavors with an easy-to-follow process. The blend of spices in the chicken filling creates a savory experience that dances on your palate, while the flaky crust provides a delightful contrast in texture. Additionally, the recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even a party snack.
Tips and Tricks
- Use store-bought dough: If you’re short on time, using pre-made empanada dough will save you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Chill the filling: Allow the chicken filling to cool before assembling the empanadas. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy.
- Seal with a fork: Press the edges with a fork after folding to ensure a secure seal and add a decorative touch.
- Brush with egg wash: For a beautiful, golden finish, brush the empanadas with a beaten egg before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Avoid the temptation to overstuff the empanadas. An excessive amount of filling can cause them to burst during cooking.
- Soggy crust: Ensure the filling is cool before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.
- Inadequate seasoning: Don’t skimp on spices; the filling should be well-seasoned to elevate the overall flavor of the empanadas.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the empanadas and freeze them before baking. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Different meats: Swap out chicken for beef, pork, or even shredded turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
How to Serve
Serve the empanadas hot from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley. Pair them with a side of chimichurri sauce or guacamole for dipping. They’re perfect for sharing on a large platter, making them an ideal choice for gatherings.
Pairing Suggestions
These chicken empanadas pair wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing cocktail such as a mojito. For side dishes, consider serving them with a vibrant salad or a side of rice and beans. For dessert, a simple flan or tres leches cake would be a delightful finish to your meal.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, they can be frozen individually in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls for the filling
- Rolling pin for dough (if making homemade)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Optional: pastry cutter or fork for sealing the empanadas
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with a mixture of lentils and vegetables, and use vegan dough. For a gluten-free option, utilize a gluten-free pastry dough or even phyllo pastry. Make sure to check labels for any pre-made ingredients to ensure they meet specific dietary restrictions.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini or corn into the filling. In the winter, consider adding heartier ingredients such as roasted root vegetables or using spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost per serving of these chicken empanadas is around $1.50 to $2.00, depending on local prices for chicken and vegetables. To save money, consider using leftover chicken or bulk-buying spices.
Kitchen Hacks
- Quickly chop onions: Soak them in cold water for a few minutes before chopping to reduce tears.
- Peel garlic easily: Smash the garlic clove with the flat side of a knife to loosen the skin for easy peeling.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it with the spices.
- How long do they take to cook? Empanadas generally take about 25-30 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Can I make them ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and dough in advance, assemble, and either freeze or refrigerate until ready to bake.
Chicken Empanada
Chicken Empanadas are a savory treasure that beautifully encapsulate the rich flavors of seasoned chicken wrapped in a delicate, flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 package of empanada dough (or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Oil for frying or baking
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
- Roll out the empanada dough and cut out circles, about 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Place about a tablespoon of chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
- If baking, place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- If frying, heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the empanadas until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 83Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 129mgCarbohydrates: 3gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 6g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making chicken empanadas at home is not only rewarding but also a delicious way to share food with family and friends. The process may seem intricate, but with this detailed guide, you’ll find that creating these delightful pastries is a joy. Enjoy the flavors and the satisfaction that comes with every bite. Happy cooking!
