Chicken Empanadas Recipe

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Empanadas are a beloved treat across the world, enjoyed in various forms with a wide range of fillings. From sweet to savory, these golden, flaky pockets offer comfort and flavor in every bite. One of the most popular and versatile types of empanadas is the Chicken Empanada. This recipe offers a mouthwatering blend of shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic spices, all encased in a crisp, golden dough. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, appetizer, or snack, these empanadas are sure to impress.

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The Appeal of Chicken Empanadas

What makes Chicken Empanadas so appealing is the combination of textures and flavors. The exterior, typically a golden-brown pastry, offers a satisfying crunch with each bite. The filling, however, is what steals the show – juicy, tender shredded chicken mixed with the slight sweetness of peppers and the earthiness of spices. The result is a perfectly balanced dish that’s comforting and satisfying.

The versatility of chicken empanadas also makes them a great option for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re having a family dinner, a party, or a casual get-together, these empanadas are always a hit. They can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a light meal. Plus, they are incredibly customizable – you can switch up the vegetables, spices, and even the protein to suit your preferences. The dough can be store-bought for convenience or made from scratch if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making Chicken Empanadas, from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions. We’ll also explore some variations, tips for perfecting the dish, and ideas for serving and pairing your empanadas.

The Ingredients: Building Layers of Flavor

Empanadas are as much about the filling as they are about the dough. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken Empanadas from scratch:

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil adds a light, healthy fat to sauté the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness and flavor.
• ½ cup minced onion: Onion serves as the base of the filling, contributing both sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, minced: Red bell peppers are naturally sweet, which adds a wonderful contrast to the savory chicken filling.
• 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced: These peppers bring a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the empanada filling.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is the backbone of many savory dishes, adding a pungent, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the empanadas.
• 2 tablespoons freshly minced cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the chicken and spices.
• 2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1½ pounds): The chicken is the star of this dish, and shredding it helps create a tender, juicy filling.
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon: Chicken bouillon is a concentrated flavoring agent that enhances the savory depth of the chicken filling.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor and helps to bind the filling together.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder deepens the savory notes of the filling and complements the fresh onions.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder intensifies the garlic flavor in the dish, making the filling more aromatic.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

For the Dough:

• 10 empanada dough shells: You can purchase store-bought empanada dough, such as Goya, or make your own from scratch. Pre-made dough makes this recipe quick and easy, but homemade dough can add a richer, flakier texture.

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg: Beaten with a tablespoon of water, the egg wash creates a beautiful golden sheen on the empanadas once baked.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating the Perfect Chicken Empanada

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s go through the process of creating Chicken Empanadas. This recipe takes a bit of time to prepare, but the end result is worth every minute.

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

1. Cook the Vegetables:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced onion and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to release their natural sweetness.
2. Add Garlic and Cilantro:
   Add the minced garlic and cilantro to the pan, and cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Incorporate the Chicken:
   Add the shredded chicken breast to the skillet. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, it works perfectly for this recipe. Stir the chicken into the vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Season the Filling:
   To the chicken and vegetable mixture, add the chicken bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning and the mixture is evenly distributed.
5. Simmer:
   Add 1 cup of water to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has mostly evaporated, and the mixture is not dry but still moist.
6. Let it Cool:
   Once the filling is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent the empanadas from sticking.
2. Fill the Dough:
   Working one dough shell at a time, place a heaping ⅓ cup of filling on one half of the dough, leaving a ¼ inch border around the edge. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling may leak out during baking.
3. Seal the Empanadas:
   Using a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create the egg wash. Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash, then fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly with your fingers, and use a fork to seal the edges tightly.
4. Brush with Egg Wash:
   Once the empanadas are assembled, brush the top of each with the remaining egg wash to give them a golden, crispy finish once baked.

Step 3: Baking the Empanadas

1. Place on a Baking Sheet:
   Place the filled and sealed empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced evenly to allow for proper baking.
2. Bake:
   Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you want them extra crispy, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.
3. Serve:
   Once the empanadas are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas can be served on their own as a delicious snack, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and dips. Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:

• Dips:
  Serve your empanadas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. The coolness and creaminess of these dips contrast perfectly with the warm, crispy empanadas.
• Salad:
  A light, refreshing salad is the perfect accompaniment to chicken empanadas. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the empanadas.
• Rice:
  For a more substantial meal, serve the empanadas with a side of fluffy rice. You can try Cilantro Lime Rice or Mexican rice to complement the flavors of the empanadas.
• Drinks:
  Pair your chicken empanadas with a refreshing beverage such as iced tea, agua fresca, or a margarita for a festive touch.

Variations and Customizations: Make It Your Own

One of the best parts about empanadas is how versatile they are. Here are some ideas to customize this Chicken Empanada recipe:

• Vegetarian Empanadas:
  For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans, lentils, or vegetable protein. You can also add extra vegetables like corn, spinach, or zucchini to the filling.
• Spicy Empanadas:
  Add a bit of heat by incorporating jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a splash of hot sauce into the filling. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder into the seasonings for an extra kick.
• Cheese Lovers:
  Add cheddar cheese or monterey jack cheese to the chicken filling for a gooey, melty surprise inside the empanadas. The cheese will also help to bind the filling and add extra richness.
• Pineapple Chicken Empanadas:
  For a sweet and savory combination, add pineapple to the chicken mixture. The tropical fruit adds a juicy, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken.
• Baked or Fried:
  While this recipe calls for baking the empanadas, you can also fry them for a crispy, golden exterior. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet and fry the empanadas for about 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

To ensure your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Chill the Dough:
   If you’re using homemade dough, be sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before assembling the empanadas. This helps the dough maintain its shape while baking and prevents it from becoming too soft or soggy.
2. Don’t Overfill:
   It can be tempting to stuff the empanadas with more filling, but overfilling can lead to messy leaks during baking. Stick to about ⅓ cup of filling per empanada to ensure they stay sealed.
3. Seal Properly:
   Be sure to press the edges of the dough firmly when sealing the empanadas. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking out.
4. Brush with Egg Wash:
   For that beautiful golden finish, don’t skip the egg wash. The egg wash not only helps the empanadas turn golden brown but also adds a slight sheen to the finished product.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Chicken Empanadas

Whether you’re craving a savory snack, an easy dinner, or a party appetizer, these Chicken Empanadas are a fantastic option. They’re flavorful, customizable, and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of a flaky, golden crust with a flavorful chicken filling makes for a perfect bite every time. Plus, they’re a great make-ahead dish, as they can be prepared and frozen before baking, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Once you try these chicken empanadas, you’ll see why they’ve become a staple in many households. The crispy exterior, paired with the tender and savory filling, is a combination that can’t be beat. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and serve them with your favorite sides and dips for a complete meal. Happy cooking!