Extremely Tender And Juicy Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Experience the rich taste of Chicken Empanadas, the perfect fusion of juicy chicken and fresh seasonings encased in a crispy, golden pastry.

Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Enjoy the savory delight of Chicken Empanadas, a treat where flaky pastry meets a hearty, well-seasoned filling. Each bite bursts with the sumptuous flavors of tender chicken and aromatic herbs, a testament to this dish’s authentic allure. Perfect for gatherings or a family meal, these empanadas promise a memorable culinary experience with their golden crust and rich, satisfying core.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Empanada Filling:

• Shredded Chicken Breast (Alternatively, you can use leftover Poached Chicken, or Roast Chicken)
• Onion
• Bell Peppers
• Garlic
• Cilantro
• Chicken Bouillon
• Tomato Paste
• Onion Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Olive Oil (not mentioned but usually used for sautéing)
• Salt (to taste)

For the Dough: (Choose one of the following options)

• Goya Empanada Dough Shell (pre-made, frozen)
• Store-bought Pie Crust
• Homemade Empanada Dough

Other:

• Egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Empanada Filling:

• Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil followed by finely chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook until they start to soften.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• To the skillet, add the shredded chicken, finely chopped cilantro, chicken bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. Adjust the salt to your taste.

Prepare the Empanada Dough:

• If using store-bought dough or crust, roll it out to the required thickness. If making homemade dough, prepare it as per the recipe.

Assemble the Empanadas:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the rolled-out dough into 6-inch discs.
• Place about 1/3 cup of the chicken filling onto each disc. Be careful not to overfill.
• Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
• Lightly beat the egg and brush it over the top of each empanada to create a golden finish when baked.

Bake:

• Arrange the filled empanadas on a baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

Serving and Storing:

• Enjoy the empanadas hot, possibly dipping them in sauces like Burger Sauce, Romesco Sauce, Homemade BBQ Sauce, Sour Cream, or Ranch Dressing.
• To store, let the empanadas cool completely, then place them in a freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes and reheat in a 400°F oven for 20 minutes before serving.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: The chicken filling can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Dough Options: Depending on your preference or time constraints, you can choose between homemade dough for a more authentic experience or store-bought options for convenience without significantly compromising on taste.

Enjoy making and indulging in these delicious chicken empanadas!