Name: Chicken Empanadas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup minced onion; 1 red bell pepper, minced; 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons freshly minced cilantro; 2 cups shredded chicken breast; 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 10 Empanada Dough Shells; 1 egg

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Tender, juicy shredded chicken empanadas are a delightful treat that you can enjoy for lunch, dinner, or as appetizers. These savory pockets are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering. With their flaky crust and rich filling of chicken, peppers, and spices, these chicken empanadas are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Flavor-Packed Filling: The combination of tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and spices creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or even freeze them for later use.
Kid-Friendly: These empanadas are perfect for little hands and can be customized with different fillings to suit picky eaters.
Perfectly Portable: Great for lunchboxes or picnics, these handheld delights are easy to take on the go.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having the proper equipment makes preparation quicker and easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Sheet pan
Parchment paper
Fork
Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: Essential for sautéing your vegetables and cooking the filling evenly.
Sheet pan: A must-have for baking the empanadas without making a mess in your oven.
Fork: Perfect for sealing the edges of the empanadas tightly so that no filling escapes during baking.

Ingredients

Tender, juicy shredded chicken, onions, peppers and garlic make a hearty, savory filling for our easy chicken empanada recipe.

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– ½ cup minced onion
– 1 red bell pepper, minced
– 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly minced cilantro
– 2 cups shredded chicken breast, about 1½ pounds
– 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– 10 Empanada Dough Shells, store-bought or homemade, rolled into 6-inch rounds (we like Goya)
– 1 egg

How to Make Chicken Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375° F with a rack in the center position. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cilantro; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the shredded chicken along with bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and one cup of water.
Bring to a simmer; cook while stirring often until most liquid has evaporated but mixture is still moist (about 5–8 minutes).

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Working with one dough shell at a time, add heaping ⅓ cup of filling on one side of each dough circle.
Leave a ¼ inch border around the edge of each shell.
In a small bowl, beat one egg with one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
Brush egg wash on edges of dough; fold over filling and press edges together using a fork to seal securely.

Step 4: Bake

Place assembled empanadas on prepared sheet pan. Brush each with remaining egg wash. Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy these delicious chicken empanadas fresh from the oven! They make an excellent addition to any meal or snack time!

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a main dish or a snack, these savory pastries are sure to please everyone at the table.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Salsa Verde: A zesty green sauce made from tomatillos and cilantro adds a refreshing touch.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip complements the flavors of chicken empanadas beautifully.
Chipotle Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, this smoky and spicy sauce is an excellent choice.

Create a Platter

Add Fresh Vegetables: Crisp veggies like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers provide crunch and freshness.
Include Cheese: Offer a variety of cheeses such as queso fresco or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Serve with Rice or Quinoa: A side of seasoned rice or quinoa can round out the meal perfectly.

Enjoy with Salad

Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the empanadas.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a creamy element to your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Empanadas

To achieve the perfect chicken empanadas, follow these tips for delicious results every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality chicken to enhance the flavor.
Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overload each dough shell; this helps prevent leakage during baking.
Seal Properly: Make sure to press the edges firmly with a fork to keep the filling inside.
Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like cumin or paprika can elevate your filling’s flavor profile.
Brush with Egg Wash: This step ensures that your empanadas come out golden brown and shiny.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

Spanish Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, it makes a hearty accompaniment.
Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein and earthiness that balances the meal.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing brightens up the plate.
Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to savory empanadas.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for satisfying finger food.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common errors can make your chicken empanadas even better. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Ignoring the dough thickness: If your empanada dough is too thick, it won’t cook evenly. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch for the best results.
Overfilling the empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst while baking. Stick to a heaping ⅓ cup of filling for each dough shell.
Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the edges tightly can lead to leaks during baking. Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges.
Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives your empanadas a beautiful golden color. Always brush them before baking for that perfect finish.
Underestimating cooking time: Each oven is different, and undercooked empanadas can be chewy. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Chicken Empanadas

Duration: Freeze cooked chicken empanadas for up to 3 months.
Container: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Chicken Empanadas

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer crust.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, achieving a crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chicken empanadas that might help you.

How do I know when my Chicken Empanadas are done?

Chicken empanadas are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. A visual check is key!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute shredded beef, pork, or even vegetables if you prefer.

What sides go well with Chicken Empanadas?

Serve them with a fresh salad or some guacamole for a delightful meal experience.

Can I make Chicken Empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them ahead of time, then bake them when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

These chicken empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic lunch, dinner, or appetizer option. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste!