Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Are you looking for a savory, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Whether you're hosting a party, need a snack, or simply want something delicious, this Chicken Empanadas recipe is a must-try! These crispy, golden-brown turnovers are filled with seasoned chicken, spices, and vegetables, offering an explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether you're new to empanadas or a seasoned cook, follow this comprehensive guide to create a batch of delectable chicken empanadas that everyone will enjoy. Read on to discover the step-by-step process and expert tips!

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What Are Chicken Empanadas?

Chicken empanadas are delicious hand pies that are popular across Latin America, Spain, and the Philippines. Empanadas are typically made by wrapping a savory filling (in this case, spiced chicken) in a dough, which is then baked or fried until golden and crisp. The name “empanada” comes from the Spanish word “empanar,” meaning to coat or wrap in bread, which is exactly what this delightful dish entails. They are perfect for snacking, a light meal, or even as a party appetizer.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following ingredients ready. This recipe yields about 10-12 empanadas.

For the Empanada Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup cold water (adjust as needed)

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small tomato (diced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra heat)
• ¼ cup chopped olives (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 hard-boiled egg (chopped, optional)
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg (beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

These ingredients come together to form the crispy, flaky crust and the flavorful chicken filling that make chicken empanadas such a hit.

Additional Ingredients for Chicken Empanadas

If you’d like to experiment with additional flavors or enhance the filling, here are some extra ingredients you can consider adding:

• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can be added for a cheesy twist.
• Corn: A handful of sweet corn kernels adds a nice texture and sweetness.
• Spices: You can add more spices like oregano, ground coriander, or chipotle powder for a different flavor profile.
• Beans: Black beans or refried beans can be mixed with the chicken filling for added bulk and protein.

Feel free to customize the empanadas to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Substitutions and Variations

The great thing about empanadas is their flexibility. Whether you have dietary restrictions or want to try something new, here are some substitutions and variations:

• Dough Substitutes: You can use store-bought pie crust, puff pastry, or even phyllo dough to save time.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make the dough gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian filling, swap the chicken with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese, or use mashed black beans and sweet potatoes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or add hot sauce for a spicier filling, or leave it out if you prefer milder flavors.

By making these substitutions, you can easily adapt the chicken empanada recipe to suit various dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that your ingredients are prepped, let’s go through the steps to make perfect chicken empanadas:

1. Make the Dough:

• Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
• Step 2: Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Step 3: Beat the egg and add it to the mixture, followed by the cold water, a little at a time. Mix until the dough comes together. Add more water if needed, but the dough should not be sticky.
• Step 4: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.

2. Prepare the Chicken Filling:

• Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
• Step 2: Add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes, followed by the tomatoes.
• Step 3: Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until well combined.
• Step 4: Add the chicken broth and let the filling simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper.
• Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped olives and hard-boiled egg if using. Set the filling aside to cool.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Step 2: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
• Step 3: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.
• Step 4: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal them.
• Step 5: Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake the Empanadas:

• Step 1: Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash to give them a nice golden color.
• Step 2: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
• Step 3: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

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

Cooking chicken empanadas involves these simple steps:

1. Make the dough and let it rest.
2. Prepare the filling by sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and adding the chicken and spices.
3. Assemble the empanadas by rolling out the dough, adding the filling, and sealing them.
4. Bake until golden brown for a perfect crispy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making chicken empanadas:

• Overfilling the Empanadas: Avoid adding too much filling, as this can cause the empanadas to burst during baking.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step will result in a dough that’s too soft to handle, making it difficult to roll and shape.
• Underseasoning the Filling: Ensure the filling is well-seasoned, as the flavor of the dough can be somewhat neutral.
• Not Sealing Properly: Be sure to press the edges tightly with a fork to prevent the empanadas from opening while baking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To serve chicken empanadas, arrange them on a platter with a side of dipping sauce, such as:

• Chimichurri (for a tangy, herbaceous flavor)
• Salsa (for some heat and freshness)
• Sour cream or avocado crema (for a creamy contrast)

These empanadas are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course when paired with a salad or rice.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas can be served warm or at room temperature. They’re great as a finger food at parties or as part of a larger meal. If serving for dinner, pair them with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas

For a stylish presentation, arrange the empanadas in a circular pattern on a large serving tray, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve with small bowls of dipping sauces in the center for easy access.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling and the dough in advance. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for future use.
• Freezing Empanadas: You can freeze unbaked empanadas and bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating Empanadas: Reheat baked empanadas in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
Yes, empanadas can be fried in oil at 350°F until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought empanada dough, puff pastry, or even pie crust can be used to save time.

Can I freeze leftover empanadas?
Yes, empanadas freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

These Chicken Empanadas are a perfect combination of flaky crust and savory, spiced chicken filling, making them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, party, or just looking for a comforting snack, this recipe delivers. Try this step-by-step guide, and enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade empanadas anytime. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own!

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