Chicken Empanadas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Empanadas are a delicious, hand-held meal packed with flavorful shredded chicken, vegetables, and spices. These empanadas are perfect for a family dinner, party appetizer, or meal prep. They offer a delightful combination of crispy, buttery dough and a savory filling made from chicken, peppers, onions, and a touch of garlic. The best part? You can bake them ahead of time and freeze them for later, making them a super convenient choice for busy days.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use leftover poached or roast chicken)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1 tsp chicken bouillon

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dough:

• Goya empanada dough shells (store-bought) or homemade empanada dough

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the shredded chicken, cilantro, chicken bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant.

2. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the empanada dough and cut it into circles about 6 inches in diameter. If using store-bought dough, simply thaw as per package instructions.

3. Fill the Empanadas: Spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill.

4. Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges, ensuring the empanada is securely closed.

5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each empanada with an egg wash (beat the egg with a little water). Bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve: Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with a dipping sauce like sour cream, BBQ sauce, or ranch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for a mixture of black beans, corn, and cheese for a vegetarian filling.

• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for extra heat.

• Cheese Lover’s Twist: Mix in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to make the filling extra cheesy.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 6 months. When ready to bake, thaw for 30 minutes and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for empanadas?

Yes! You can use store-bought empanada dough or pie crust for a quicker version. Just make sure to roll it out to about 6 inches in diameter.

Can I freeze empanadas before baking?

Yes, you can freeze empanadas before baking. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.

How do I know when empanadas are done?

Empanadas are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The filling should be hot and cooked through.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to make the empanadas, just fill the dough and bake.

Can I bake empanadas without egg wash?

Yes, you can skip the egg wash, but the empanadas won’t have the same glossy, golden finish. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

Can I make empanadas with beef instead of chicken?

Yes, beef empanadas are just as delicious! Use ground beef or leftover roast beef as a filling.

How can I serve chicken empanadas?

Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, like salsa, sour cream, or a tangy BBQ sauce.

Can I make homemade dough for empanadas?

Yes, making homemade empanada dough is a great option if you have the time. Check out the recipe for homemade empanada dough on the blog.

Are these empanadas spicy?

These empanadas are not inherently spicy, but you can easily add chili flakes or fresh jalapeños to the filling to spice them up.

How long will chicken empanadas last in the fridge?

Store leftover empanadas in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a delightful, portable meal that’s perfect for almost any occasion. With their savory chicken filling and flaky, buttery dough, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer or a satisfying main dish, these empanadas check all the boxes. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or make a batch ahead of time to keep on hand for busy days!