Description
Chicken empanadas are a delicious, portable meal perfect for any occasion. These golden, flaky pockets are packed with a savory and flavorful chicken filling that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, party snack, or on-the-go lunch, this recipe is a must-try.
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 (Goya is a popular brand)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) with a rack positioned in the center. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cilantro, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add the shredded chicken, chicken bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and 1 cup of water. Simmer the mixture for 5-8 minutes, stirring often, until the liquid has mostly evaporated but the filling remains moist. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Assemble the Empanadas: Place one empanada dough shell on a flat surface. Add a heaping ⅓ cup of filling to one side of the dough, leaving a ¼-inch border around the edge. Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl, then brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each empanada with the remaining egg wash for a glossy finish. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp.
Notes
Serving Tips
- Pair with Dips: Serve your chicken empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chimichurri for added flavor.
- Add a Side: Pair with a fresh garden salad, rice and beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Appetizer Option: For parties or gatherings, cut the empanadas into halves or quarters to create bite-sized appetizers.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to retain their crispness. For a quicker option, use a toaster oven or air fryer. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
- Freezing Cooked Empanadas: Place baked empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Freezing Unbaked Empanadas: Assemble the empanadas and freeze them uncooked. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.