Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Empanadas are a delightful treat for anyone who loves savory pastries. They are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Making these empanadas at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you create something both tasty and wholesome. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these golden pockets of goodness are sure to impress!
How to Make Chicken Empanadas
Ingredients:
- 500 g cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup green or black olives
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Empanada dough
Directions:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until they become soft and fragrant.
- Next, add the shredded chicken and olives to the skillet. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Take a portion of the empanada dough and place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center. Carefully fold the dough over and seal the edges by pressing them together.
- Place the empanadas on a baking tray and bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Once done, serve them hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Empanadas
Chicken Empanadas are best served warm. You can enjoy them on their own or with a dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch. They can also be served alongside a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Chicken Empanadas
If you have leftovers, you can store Chicken Empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze unbaked empanadas. Just make sure to wrap them well and store them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Chicken Empanadas
- Make sure the filling is not too wet to avoid soggy dough.
- For a golden crust, brush the empanadas with a bit of olive oil before baking.
- Experiment with spices in your filling, like cumin or paprika, for added flavor.
- If you don’t have empanada dough, you can use regular pie crust or make your own dough from scratch.
Variation
You can easily switch up the filling in your Chicken Empanadas. Try adding vegetables, cheese, or even different types of proteins like ground beef or turkey. For a twist, consider adding a bit of cheese to the chicken filling for a creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works wonderfully for this dish. Just shred it and mix with the other ingredients.
Can I bake instead of fry the empanadas?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option, and the empanadas still turn out delicious and crispy.
How can I make the dough from scratch?
You can make empanada dough by mixing flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, then adding water until you form a smooth dough. Roll it out thinly, then cut into circles for your filling!
Embrace the joy of cooking with these Chicken Empanadas, and share the delicious results with family and friends!
Chicken Empanadas
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken and olives to the skillet. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Take a portion of the empanada dough and place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center. Carefully fold the dough over and seal the edges by pressing them together.
- Place the empanadas on a baking tray and bake them for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Once done, serve them hot and enjoy!