Chicken Empanadas are a flavorful and hearty hand-held meal or snack featuring shredded chicken, onions, peppers, and garlic wrapped in a golden, buttery crust. Inspired by Argentinian flavors, these empanadas are perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep. They are easy to make with homemade or store-bought dough and can be frozen for a quick meal later.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup minced onion
- 1 red bell pepper, minced
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly minced cilantro
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1½ pounds)
- 2 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 10 empanada dough shells, rolled into 6-inch rounds (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
Directions
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F with a rack in the center position. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cilantro, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in shredded chicken, bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and 1 cup of water. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until the liquid is mostly evaporated but the filling remains moist. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble Empanadas:
- Working with one dough shell at a time, add about 1/3 cup of filling to one side of the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border.
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with water to make an egg wash. Brush the edges of the dough with the egg wash, fold it over the filling, and press the edges firmly together using a fork to seal.
4. Bake Empanadas:
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve and Store:
- Serve warm, optionally with dipping sauces like romesco, sour cream, or ranch.
- To freeze, cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Reheat at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Nutrients
- Calories: 212 per empanada
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 307mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Enjoy these golden, flavorful chicken empanadas as a satisfying and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
The History and Cultural Significance of Empanadas
Empanadas, derived from the Spanish word “empanar,” meaning “to wrap in bread,” have a rich history that dates back to medieval Spain. Introduced to Latin America during the colonial era, empanadas have since evolved into a beloved dish with countless regional variations.
In Argentina, empanadas are particularly popular, often filled with beef, chicken, or cheese, and seasoned with local spices. They are enjoyed as both street food and a centerpiece at family gatherings. The versatility of empanadas makes them adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences, allowing each culture to make them uniquely their own.
Chicken Empanadas, with their balance of protein, vegetables, and spices, showcase how this classic dish can be customized while still honoring its roots.
Why Chicken Empanadas Are a Must-Try
There are several reasons why Chicken Empanadas should be on your menu:
- Versatility: They are perfect for a variety of occasions, from weeknight dinners to holiday parties. They can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Empanadas can be made ahead of time, frozen, and reheated, making them ideal for busy schedules.
- Balanced Flavor: The combination of shredded chicken, bell peppers, onions, and spices creates a filling that is savory, aromatic, and satisfying.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a traditional crust or want to try a gluten-free or whole-wheat alternative, this recipe can be adapted to your dietary needs.
The Flavor Profile of Chicken Empanadas
Chicken Empanadas are a symphony of flavors and textures:
- Savory Chicken Filling: The shredded chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and chicken bouillon, creating a rich, umami-packed filling.
- Sweet Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Herbaceous Notes: Fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Golden Crust: The buttery, flaky empanada crust adds a satisfying crunch and serves as the perfect vessel for the filling.
Each bite offers a harmonious combination of flavors and textures, making these empanadas a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect Occasions for Serving Chicken Empanadas
Chicken Empanadas are suitable for a wide range of occasions:
- Family Dinners: Serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Parties and Gatherings: Their hand-held size and portability make them an excellent choice for parties or potlucks.
- Game Day Snacks: Pair them with dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a fun and flavorful snack.
- Lunchbox Treats: Pack them in lunchboxes for a filling and satisfying meal on the go.
Their versatility ensures they’ll be a hit no matter the setting.
Tips for Perfecting Chicken Empanadas
To ensure your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Quality Dough: Whether homemade or store-bought, ensure the dough is pliable and easy to work with to prevent cracking during assembly.
- Seal Properly: Use an egg wash to seal the edges of the dough and prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Crimping with a fork adds a decorative touch and reinforces the seal.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the empanadas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brushing the tops with egg wash ensures a beautifully golden and glossy finish.
- Let Cool Before Freezing: If freezing, allow the empanadas to cool completely to prevent condensation and soggy crusts.
These tips will help you achieve empanadas that are both visually appealing and delicious.
Customizing Your Chicken Empanadas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to customize your empanadas:
- Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder for a spicier filling.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar into the filling for added richness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or black beans for a plant-based version.
- Different Crusts: Use gluten-free dough or puff pastry for a unique twist.
- International Flavors: Experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or curry powder to create empanadas with a global flair.
These variations ensure there’s an empanada for everyone’s taste.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken Empanadas pair beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Sides: Serve with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the empanadas.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer romesco sauce, chimichurri, or a creamy garlic aioli for extra flavor.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager for a refreshing complement.
These pairings enhance the empanadas’ flavors, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Chicken Empanadas are excellent for meal prep, thanks to their long shelf life:
- Refrigeration: Store baked empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place cooled empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to six months.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen empanadas in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes or until heated through. This method preserves their crispiness.
These storage tips make it easy to enjoy empanadas whenever you crave them.
Conclusion
Chicken Empanadas are a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful, and versatile cooking. With their rich, savory filling and golden, flaky crust, they offer a delightful combination of taste and texture that appeals to a wide audience. Perfect for various occasions, these empanadas are a reliable recipe to have in your repertoire.
Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering, preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner, or freezing them for future meals, Chicken Empanadas are as practical as they are delicious. Their adaptability ensures they can cater to different tastes and dietary needs, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide. Try them today, and let their hearty, comforting flavors win over your family and friends!