Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas are a delicious handheld treat that perfectly combines a savory, spiced chicken filling with a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re preparing a casual snack, a family dinner, or a party appetizer, these empanadas are sure to impress. Made with shredded cooked chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables and spices, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors that everyone will love. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your taste preferences.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve ever enjoyed the satisfying crunch and rich taste of empanadas, you know just how addictive they can be. This Chicken Empanadas recipe stands out because it uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand and transforms them into something extraordinary. The combination of cumin, paprika, and chili powder gives the filling a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheddar cheese for a creamy finish. Plus, using empanada dough discs makes assembly quick and easy—no need to fuss over making dough from scratch.

These empanadas are also a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken or a shredded chicken recipe like Mexican Instant Pot Shredded Chicken, which adds even more depth and flavor to the filling. Whether you bake or fry them, these empanadas turn out perfectly every time, making them a reliable go-to recipe for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 package of empanada dough discs
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

How To Make Chicken Empanadas

Prepare the Filling

Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Next, add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce and flavors to meld. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Empanadas

Lay out the empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each disc. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the dough from bursting during cooking.

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal completely. Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden finish when cooked.

Cook the Empanadas

You have two options: frying or baking.

For frying, heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the empanadas in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving.

For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the dough discs – this can cause the empanadas to burst open during cooking.
• Not sealing the edges properly – be sure to press firmly and crimp the edges to prevent leaks.
• Cooking at too high or too low a temperature – frying oil that’s too hot can burn the exterior before the filling heats through, while oil that’s too cool causes greasy empanadas.
• Skipping the egg wash – this step gives the empanadas a beautiful golden brown color and appealing shine.
• Using raw chicken – ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded before making the filling to avoid undercooked meat.

Dietary Options

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, black beans, and corn for a hearty vegetarian filling.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free empanada dough or make your own with gluten-free flour blends.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or add fresh chopped jalapeños to increase heat or omit it for a milder flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with a non-dairy cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether.

Seasonal Variations

• Summer: Add fresh corn kernels and diced zucchini to the filling for a fresh, garden-inspired taste.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory twist.
• Winter: Add a splash of warming cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling spices for cozy, comforting flavors.
• Spring: Mix in fresh peas and chopped spinach for a vibrant and colorful filling.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Chicken Empanadas are perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen empanadas to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

To cook from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and can save you a lot of prep time. Just shred the chicken and ensure there are no large bones before adding it to the filling.

Is it necessary to fry the empanadas, or can I bake them?

You can definitely bake chicken empanadas for a lighter option. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes will give you a crispy crust without the need for frying.

How can I make the empanadas less spicy for kids?

Simply reduce or omit the chili powder and use mild paprika instead of smoked paprika. You can also add a bit more cheese to mellow out the spices.

Can I freeze these empanadas before cooking?

Yes! Freezing before cooking is a great way to have them ready for later. Freeze assembled empanadas on a tray, then transfer to a bag once frozen solid. Cook them directly from frozen for best results.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a fantastic recipe that blends vibrant spices, tender shredded chicken, and melty cheddar cheese into a crispy, flavorful package. Whether you’re frying or baking, these empanadas offer a satisfying way to enjoy a classic dish with a simple, efficient method. Their versatility allows you to tailor the filling to your dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients, making them an excellent addition to any mealtime rotation. Try this recipe next time you want a fun, flavorful dish everyone will love!

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