Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Are you craving something savory and delicious, but also easy to make at home? Look no further than chicken empanadas! These handheld pockets of flavorful, spiced chicken wrapped in a crispy, golden crust are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this guide will take you through every step of the process to ensure you make the best empanadas possible. Read on for the ultimate chicken empanada recipe, complete with substitutions, variations, and essential tips.

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What Are Chicken Empanadas?

Chicken empanadas are a popular dish found in various Latin American countries. They consist of a pastry dough filled with seasoned chicken, sometimes accompanied by vegetables, cheese, or sauces. Empanadas are traditionally baked or fried, making them a versatile dish that can be customized to fit different preferences and dietary restrictions. They are portable, making them an excellent option for lunchboxes, picnics, or even as party appetizers.

Now that you know what chicken empanadas are, let's dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process for making this mouthwatering dish at home.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

Before we begin, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you'll need. Below is a comprehensive list for the filling and the dough. These amounts will yield about 12 empanadas, but you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your needs.

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 stick (½ cup) of cold, unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup of ice water
• 1 tablespoon of white vinegar

Ingredients for the Chicken Filling:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (shredded or finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• ½ teaspoon of chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ½ cup of diced bell pepper (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup of chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• ¼ cup of chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Substitutions and Variations for Chicken Empanadas

Empanadas are highly adaptable, and there are numerous ways to switch up this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations and substitutions:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for a vegetarian protein, like beans, tofu, or even finely chopped mushrooms. Season them similarly to the chicken to retain the flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the spice by adding more chili powder or even a bit of cayenne pepper if you like your food hot. For milder empanadas, omit the chili powder entirely.
• Cheese Filling: Add a bit of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or queso fresco) to the filling for an extra gooey and delicious twist.
• Different Meats: You can replace the chicken with ground beef, pork, or even turkey for a different type of empanada filling. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. You may need to tweak the dough’s moisture levels, but the result will still be tasty.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s start with making the dough. While it may seem intimidating, homemade empanada dough is actually quite simple and will result in a flakier, tastier crust than store-bought versions.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, ice water, and vinegar. Gradually add this mixture to the flour, stirring until the dough comes together.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly to form a smooth ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. While the dough is chilling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced bell peppers and chopped tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the filling is done, set it aside to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

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

Now that both your dough and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble and cook the empanadas.

Step 1: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Using a round cutter (or a bowl), cut out circles from the dough (about 5-6 inches in diameter).

Step 2: Fill the Empanadas

1. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
3. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal, or use your fingers to create a decorative edge.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

1. Transfer the empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the top of each empanada. This will give them a beautiful golden color as they bake.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the Empanadas: One of the most common mistakes is overstuffing the empanadas, which can cause them to burst open while baking. Stick to about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per empanada.
• Not Sealing Properly: Make sure the edges of the empanadas are well-sealed to avoid the filling leaking out. Using a fork to crimp the edges or pinching them together works well.
• Undercooking the Dough: Ensure the dough is rolled out to the correct thickness. If it’s too thick, the empanadas won’t cook evenly, leaving raw dough in the center.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Empanadas are as versatile in presentation as they are in preparation. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Serve chicken empanadas hot and fresh out of the oven, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as:

• Salsa Verde: For a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
• Aioli or Garlic Mayo: To add a creamy, garlicky flavor.
• Chimichurri: A fresh, herby sauce that complements the richness of the empanada perfectly.

For a more substantial meal, serve your empanadas with sides like a fresh green salad, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas

• Serve on a Wooden Board: Arrange the empanadas on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the empanadas for a pop of color.
• Use Colorful Plates: Serving empanadas on brightly colored plates can make the dish look even more appetizing.

Chicken Empanada Recipe Tips

• Make the Filling in Advance: The chicken filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day you plan to make the empanadas.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze unbaked empanadas for up to three months. To cook, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling. Add corn, olives, or even raisins for a sweet-savory combination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made pie crust or puff pastry as a substitute for homemade dough. Just roll it out and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! To fry, heat oil in a deep pan and cook the empanadas until they’re golden and crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Conclusion

Chicken empanadas are a crowd-pleaser and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just because, this recipe is sure to impress. With a buttery, flaky crust and a flavorful filling, these empanadas are comfort food at its best. Plus, with options to customize the ingredients and cooking method, you can truly make this dish your own. So, roll up your sleeves and give these chicken empanadas a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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