Easy Chicken Empanadas

Name: Easy Chicken Empanadas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Latin
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup minced onion; 1 red bell pepper, minced; 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1.5 pounds); 10 empanada dough shells (6-inch rounds); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

May 19, 2025

Updated:

May 19, 2025

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Flaky and delicious, Easy Chicken Empanadas are a must-try for any occasion. These golden pastries filled with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and fresh herbs are perfect for snacks, party food, or meal prep. What makes them truly special is their versatility and the delightful flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these tasty empanadas in no time.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of shredded chicken, vibrant peppers, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering filling that’s sure to impress.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these empanadas as appetizers at a party or as a satisfying snack any day of the week.
Make Ahead: These empanadas are perfect for meal prep. Bake them in advance and store them for quick meals throughout the week.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these easy chicken empanadas, making them a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather all necessary tools before starting. Having everything on hand helps streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Fork
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your empanadas to perfection without sticking.
Parchment paper: Prevents the empanadas from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal after baking.
Large skillet: Essential for sautéing vegetables and mixing the filling uniformly before stuffing the dough.

Ingredients

Flaky golden pastries filled with juicy chicken, colorful peppers, and fresh herbs. These empanadas make great snacks, party food, or meal prep options.

For the Filling

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup minced onion
1 red bell pepper, minced
1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced
2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1.5 pounds)
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Dough

10 empanada dough shells (6-inch rounds)

For Egg Wash

1 egg for egg wash

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Chicken Empanadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add minced onions and bell peppers.
3. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in:
– Minced garlic and cilantro.
– Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Mix in Chicken Filling

Add to the skillet:
– Shredded chicken,
– Chicken bouillon,
– Tomato paste,
– Onion powder,
– Garlic powder,
– Kosher salt.

Simmer until liquid evaporates (about 5–8 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Fill the Dough Shells

Place about 1/3 cup of chicken filling onto each dough round.

Step 6: Create Egg Wash

In a small bowl:
1. Mix one egg with a tablespoon of water.
2. Brush edges of each dough round with this mixture.

Step 7: Fold and Seal Empanadas

Fold each dough round in half over the filling.
Use a fork to seal the edges firmly.

Step 8: Brush Tops with Egg Wash

Brush each filled empanada’s top with remaining egg wash for a golden finish.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Chicken Empanadas!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Empanadas

Easy Chicken Empanadas are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these empanadas can elevate your meal experience.

With Dipping Sauces

Salsa Verde: A zesty green sauce that adds a fresh kick.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this avocado dip complements the empanadas perfectly.
Chipotle Aioli: A smoky, spicy mayo that’s great for those who love heat.

As Part of a Platter

Charcuterie Board: Pair the empanadas with cheeses, meats, and olives for an impressive spread.
Mixed Veggies: Fresh vegetables add crunch and balance to your serving platter.

In a Salad

Mixed Greens: Serve empanadas on a bed of mixed greens with vinaigrette for a lighter meal.
Spicy Coleslaw: The tangy slaw adds texture and pairs well with the savory filling.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Empanadas

Creating the perfect Easy Chicken Empanadas is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your empanadas are a hit!

Bold seasoning: Enhance flavor by using fresh herbs and spices in the filling.
Thoroughly seal: Make sure to press edges firmly when sealing. This prevents filling from leaking during baking.
Chill dough: Keep the dough chilled before use. This helps achieve that flaky crust you desire.
Uniform filling: Use a measuring cup to portion the filling evenly for consistent cooking.
Egg wash generously: Brush the tops well for that beautiful golden color after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Empanadas

Pairing your Easy Chicken Empanadas with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and cilantro that adds protein and fiber.
Spanish Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the empanada’s richness.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter creates a sweet contrast.
Yuca Fries: Crispy fries made from yuca root give a delightful crunch alongside the pastries.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies bring color and health benefits to your plate.
Cucumber Salad: A cool salad with cucumbers and vinegar balances out the warmth of the empanadas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken Empanadas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure you create delicious pastries every time.

Using too much filling: Overfilling your empanadas can lead to messy sealing and bursting during baking. Stick to 1/3 cup of filling for each dough round.
Not sealing properly: If the edges are not sealed well, the filling may leak out while baking. Use a fork to press down on the edges firmly.
Skipping egg wash: Omitting the egg wash results in dull-looking empanadas. Brush the tops with an egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at a temperature that’s too low can result in soggy dough. Always preheat your oven to 375°F for optimal crispiness.
Using cold filling: Cold filling can make it hard to seal the dough properly and may affect baking time. Ensure your filling is at room temperature before using it.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Chicken Empanadas

Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Chicken Empanadas

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This might make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Easy Chicken Empanadas?

Easy Chicken Empanadas are flaky pastries filled with seasoned chicken, peppers, and herbs. They are perfect as snacks or party food.

Can I use other meats for empanadas?

Yes! You can substitute shredded beef, pork, or even vegetables if you prefer a meatless option.

How do I customize my Easy Chicken Empanadas?

You can add different spices or veggies based on your taste preferences. Try adding jalapeños for some heat!

Are Easy Chicken Empanadas good for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and make excellent grab-and-go meals or snacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Chicken Empanadas are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion—snacks, parties, or meal prep. Feel free to customize the filling based on what you have available or your personal tastes. Enjoy making this delightful dish!

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