If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to impress your family or guests, look no further than chicken empanadas! These savory pastries are packed with delicious chicken filling, and they're perfect for any occasion, from parties to family dinners. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this chicken empanada recipe is easy to follow and guarantees satisfying results. Read through to discover how to make these tasty bites and elevate your cooking game!

What are Chicken Empanadas?
Chicken empanadas are a type of savory pastry that originated in Latin American and Spanish cuisines. Empanadas are made by folding dough over a filling, which in this case, is a seasoned chicken mixture. The filled dough is then baked or fried until golden brown, creating a delicious handheld treat that's crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. The chicken filling can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, spices, and cheese, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste preferences.
Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's start by gathering all the ingredients you'll need to make delicious chicken empanadas. Here’s a comprehensive list:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten
- ⅓ cup cold water (you may need a bit more)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (you can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup green olives, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
For Baking:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Extra flour for rolling the dough
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of chicken empanadas is their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to accommodate your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of vegetables such as zucchini and carrots.
- Spicier Version: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the chicken filling.
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to the filling for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Dough Variations: If you're short on time, store-bought pie crust or puff pastry can be used as a quick alternative to homemade dough.
Now that you have all your ingredients and possible variations ready, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making chicken empanadas from scratch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Chicken Empanadas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter pieces and mix them in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, cold water, and vinegar.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
- Once the dough comes together, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, garlic, and red bell pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute to release the flavors of the spices.
- Add the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the filling is thick.
- Stir in the chopped hard-boiled egg, green olives, and fresh cilantro (if using). Taste the filling and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove the filling from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
- Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause the dough to tear.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Transfer the empanadas to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake the Empanadas
- Brush the top of each empanada with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making empanadas is a straightforward process, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overfilling the Empanadas: Adding too much filling can cause the dough to tear or make it difficult to seal the edges properly.
- Not Sealing the Edges Well: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed, either by pinching with your fingers or using a fork. If the edges aren't sealed, the filling may leak out during baking.
- Using Warm Filling: Let the chicken filling cool before assembling the empanadas. If the filling is too warm, it can make the dough soggy.
- Overworking the Dough: Kneading the dough too much can make it tough. Handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender and flaky.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Chicken Empanadas
Chicken empanadas can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack. They pair well with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with chimichurri sauce, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair the empanadas with a simple green salad, rice, or beans for a complete meal.
- Party Platter: Arrange the empanadas on a platter with assorted dips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas
For a visually appealing presentation, consider the following ideas:
- Garnish: Sprinkle the empanadas with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
- Plating: Arrange the empanadas on a wooden board or a colorful plate to create a rustic and inviting look.
- Festive Touch: If serving for a special occasion, add small flags or toothpicks to each empanada for a festive presentation.
Chicken Empanada Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. The filling can be made a day in advance, and the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Empanadas freeze well. After assembling but before baking, place them on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Frying Option: If you prefer a crispier empanada, you can fry them instead of baking. Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the empanadas until golden brown on both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought dough for chicken empanadas? A: Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust or puff pastry if you're short on time. However, homemade dough has a flakier, more authentic texture.
Q: Can I freeze chicken empanadas? A: Yes! Empanadas freeze well, both baked and unbaked. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or bag.
Q: How long can I store cooked empanadas? A: Cooked empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry empanadas? A: Absolutely. Baking is a healthier option and still gives the empanadas a crisp exterior.
Conclusion
Chicken empanadas are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you bake or fry them, serve them as a snack or meal, or add your own twist to the filling, empanadas are always a crowd-pleaser. With this step-by-step recipe, you’ll be able to make perfect empanadas that are golden, crispy, and full of flavor. So gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy these delicious homemade chicken empanadas!
PrintChicken Empanadas Recipe
This chicken empanadas recipe features a savory filling made with chicken, spices, and vegetables, encased in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or meal, these empanadas are easy to make and absolutely delicious. Ideal for any gathering or quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ¼ cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, chili powder, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Roll out empanada dough and cut into circles. Place 1-2 tablespoon of chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and press edges to seal. Crimp with a fork.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can customize the filling with cheese or vegetables.
- These empanadas can be fried instead of baked for a crispier result.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
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