Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Are you looking to add some excitement to your kitchen with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare? Look no further than Chicken Empanadas! These delightful hand-held pies are packed with seasoned chicken, savory vegetables, and a blend of spices, all encased in a crispy, golden crust. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a main course, Chicken Empanadas are versatile, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. Ready to learn how to make these delicious treats? Read on for the full recipe and all the tips you need to make the perfect Chicken Empanadas.

What Are Chicken Empanadas?

Chicken Empanadas are a type of pastry filled with a delicious mixture of shredded chicken, vegetables, and spices. Originating from Spain and popular across Latin America, empanadas can be baked or fried, and they come with various fillings, including beef, cheese, and vegetables. The word "empanada" comes from the Spanish verb "empanar," meaning to wrap or coat in bread. These savory pastries are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Chicken Empanadas

To make the perfect Chicken Empanadas, you'll need the following ingredients for the filling and dough:

For the Dough:

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

For the Filling:

• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken or poach your own)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon of ground oregano
• ¼ teaspoon of chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ¼ cup of tomato sauce
• ¼ cup of chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Substitutions and Variations

Empanadas are highly adaptable, and there are many ways to customize the recipe to your liking:

1. Dough Variations:
   • You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more rustic crust.
   • If you’re short on time, pre-made pie dough or puff pastry can be used as a quick alternative.
2. Filling Variations:
   • Spicy Chicken Empanadas: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
   • Cheesy Chicken Empanadas: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese (like mozzarella, cheddar, or queso fresco) to the filling for a gooey, cheesy bite.
   • Vegetable Empanadas: Replace the chicken with black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a vegetarian option.
3. Different Proteins:
   • If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or even shredded pork. Adjust the seasonings as needed to complement your chosen protein.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Chicken Empanadas involves preparing the dough, cooking the filling, and assembling the empanadas before baking or frying them to perfection. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, ice water, and vinegar. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it comes together. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

• While the dough chills, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
• Add the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
• Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.

3. Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake the empanadas. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough.
• Place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork or twist them to create a decorative edge.
• Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.

4. Bake or Fry the Empanadas:

• To Bake: Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• To Fry: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like Chicken Empanadas can have pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Overfilling the Empanadas:
   • Be careful not to overfill your empanadas. This can cause them to burst open during cooking, leading to a mess and loss of filling.
2. Not Sealing the Edges Properly:
   • Ensure that the edges of the empanadas are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out. Use a fork to crimp the edges or twist them for a secure seal.
3. Using Warm Filling:
   • Allow the filling to cool before assembling the empanadas. If the filling is too warm, it can make the dough soft and difficult to work with, leading to soggy empanadas.
4. Skipping the Egg Wash:
   • Don’t skip the egg wash if you’re baking the empanadas. It helps to create a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken Empanadas are a delight to serve and eat. Here’s how to make them look as good as they taste:

1. Serve with Dipping Sauces:
   • Pair your empanadas with a variety of dipping sauces such as chimichurri, salsa, or guacamole. The sauces add an extra layer of flavor and make for a fun, interactive eating experience.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
   • Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the empanadas before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve Warm:
   • Empanadas are best enjoyed warm. If they cool down before serving, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes.

How to Serve Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Here’s how to serve them in different settings:

1. As an Appetizer:
   • Arrange the empanadas on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces. This makes for an enticing appetizer at parties or gatherings.
2. As a Main Course:
   • Serve the empanadas alongside a fresh salad, rice, or beans for a complete meal. This makes a satisfying lunch or dinner.
3. For a Picnic or On-the-Go:
   • Empanadas are portable and easy to eat with your hands, making them perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Empanadas

Take your Chicken Empanadas to the next level with these creative presentation ideas:

1. Rustic Style:
   • Serve the empanadas on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic, casual vibe.
2. Elegant Plating:
   • Place the empanadas on a white plate, with dipping sauces in small ramekins on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
3. Empanada Bar:
   • Set up an empanada bar with a variety of fillings and sauces. Let your guests customize their empanadas for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfectly every time:

1. Chill the Dough:
   • For the best texture, make sure your dough is cold before rolling it out. If it becomes too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
2. Use a Rolling Pin Guide:
   • To ensure your dough is rolled out evenly, use a rolling pin with thickness guides or simply eyeball it to about ⅛-inch thickness.
3. Cook the Chicken Ahead of Time:
   • Cooking and shredding the chicken ahead of time will save you time when preparing the filling.
4. Freeze for Later:
   • Uncooked empanadas can be frozen and baked directly from the freezer. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Empanadas ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance. Assemble the empanadas when you're ready to bake or fry them.

2. How do I store leftover Chicken Empanadas?

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven to maintain their crispiness.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Empanadas?

• Absolutely! Freeze unbaked empanadas on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I make the dough without butter?

• Yes, you can substitute butter with lard or shortening for a slightly different texture and flavor. However, butter adds a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

5. What other fillings can I use for empanadas?

• Empanadas are versatile and can be filled with almost anything! Try ground beef, pulled pork, cheese, or even sweet fillings like apple or dulce de leche.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. With a flaky, buttery crust and a flavorful filling, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, making empanadas is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a taste of Latin American cuisine to your home. So gather your ingredients, follow these tips, and enjoy the satisfying process of creating your own batch of mouthwatering Chicken Empanadas!

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