Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are a beloved comfort food, enjoyed by many across the globe. These handheld pastries are packed with flavorful fillings and wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. Today, we're diving into the world of Chicken Empanadas. If you're craving a delicious, easy-to-make snack or appetizer, this recipe is perfect for you. From the ingredients list to step-by-step instructions and tips for presentation, this guide covers everything you need to know to make irresistible Chicken Empanadas at home. Read on to learn how to make these savory, bite-sized treats!

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What Are Chicken Empanadas?

Chicken Empanadas are a popular Latin American dish consisting of a crispy, flaky pastry filled with seasoned chicken and vegetables. Traditionally baked or fried, these empanadas are perfect for a quick snack, party appetizer, or even a light meal. The best part? They can be customized to fit any palate, with various spices, veggies, or sauces to match your tastes. Whether you're new to empanadas or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through every step of making these savory delights.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

Before you dive into making the dough and filling, it’s important to gather all your ingredients. Below is a complete list of what you'll need to make these delicious Chicken Empanadas.

For the Dough:

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

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  (You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup green olives, chopped (optional but adds great flavor)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Substitutions and Variations for Chicken Empanadas

One of the best things about empanadas is how versatile they can be. If you don’t have certain ingredients or want to try something different, here are a few substitutions and variations you can make to this recipe:

1. Meat Variations: Instead of chicken, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or even pork. If you're a fan of seafood, shrimp or crab also make excellent fillings.
2. Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely and load your empanadas with beans, sautéed vegetables, and cheese for a vegetarian twist.
3. Cheese: Add shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella to the filling for extra flavor and a gooey texture.
4. Spice Levels: Adjust the spice to your preference. Add more cayenne pepper for heat, or keep things mild with just cumin and paprika.
5. Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free flour mix for the dough to make these empanadas gluten-free.
6. Baked or Fried: While traditionally fried, you can opt to bake the empanadas for a healthier version. Either way, they’ll be delicious.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into making these savory treats. Follow the instructions below to ensure your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfectly every time.

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
• Add the cold, cubed butter, and using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, water, and vinegar.
• Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until it comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Chicken Filling:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the bell peppers and garlic, cooking until fragrant, another 2 minutes.
• Add the shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
• Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Stir in the chopped green olives and cilantro (if using) and remove from heat. Let the filling cool.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
• Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness.
• Use a 4-5 inch round cutter (or a bowl) to cut out circles of dough.
• Place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
• Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges with a fork to seal them.
• Brush the tops of the empanadas with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny finish.
• If baking, place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. If frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfilling the Empanadas: It's tempting to add a lot of filling, but overstuffing can lead to messy empanadas that burst open during baking or frying.
2. Not Sealing Properly: Make sure the edges of the empanadas are sealed tightly, either with a fork or by crimping the dough with your fingers.
3. Skipping the Rest Time for Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for a flaky, tender crust. Don't skip this step!
4. Using Hot Filling: Allow the chicken filling to cool before assembling the empanadas. A hot filling can melt the dough and cause it to tear.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Empanadas are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your presentation with a few creative ideas. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them as a snack, presentation matters!

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas:

1. Serve with Dipping Sauces: Empanadas pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like salsa, chimichurri, or even a creamy garlic aioli.
2. Serve as Part of a Platter: Create a tapas-style platter with Chicken Empanadas, fried plantains, and a fresh salad.
3. Accompany with a Side Salad: A light green salad or avocado and tomato salad makes a perfect side dish for empanadas.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley over the top of the empanadas just before serving for a pop of color.
2. Arrange in a Spiral Pattern: For a party platter, arrange the empanadas in a spiral or circular pattern for a visually appealing display.
3. Mini Empanadas for Appetizers: If you're serving these as a finger food at a party, make mini empanadas by cutting the dough into smaller circles.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. Store them in the fridge and assemble the empanadas just before baking or frying.
• Freezing Empanadas: Empanadas freeze well. After assembling, freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t forget to brush the empanadas with an egg wash before baking for that golden, glossy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make empanadas with store-bought dough?

Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought pie dough or puff pastry works as a great substitute for homemade dough.

Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?

Absolutely! If you prefer a crispier empanada, fry them in hot oil (350°F) for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

How do I store leftover empanadas?

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze empanadas?

Yes, you can freeze both cooked and uncooked empanadas. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen for an easy meal or snack.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With a savory chicken filling wrapped in a flaky, golden crust, they’re perfect for snacks, parties, or even a light dinner. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, this recipe ensures your empanadas will be full of flavor and perfectly cooked every time. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and spices to make the recipe your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade Chicken Empanadas!

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