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!