Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Introduction

If you’re in the mood for a savory snack or a delicious appetizer, this Chicken Empanadas Recipe is perfect for you! These hand-held pastries, filled with juicy, seasoned chicken and flavorful vegetables, are a popular dish across Latin America and Spain. Making them from scratch may seem daunting, but with our detailed step-by-step guide, you’ll be whipping up a batch of homemade chicken empanadas that will impress your family and friends. Read on to learn the ingredients, substitutions, and expert cooking tips to perfect your empanadas!

Why choose this Chicken Empanadas Recipe recipe?

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Ingredients for Chicken Empanadas Recipe

• For the Filling:
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness to the sautéed vegetables.
  • ½ cup minced onion – Provides a sweet, caramelized flavor.
  • 1 red bell pepper, minced – Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
  • 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced – Balances the flavor profile with its mild sweetness.
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced – For that bold, aromatic flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons freshly minced cilantro – Adds a bright, fresh flavor to the filling.
  • 2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1½ pounds) – The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
  • 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon – Enhances the savory, umami flavor of the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the sautéed onions for a depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Elevates the garlic flavor without being too overpowering.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances and brings out the flavors of the filling.
• For the Dough:
  • 10 Empanada Dough Shells, store-bought or homemade, rolled into 6-inch rounds – You can use pre-made dough or make your own at home. We recommend Goya empanada discs for convenience.
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg – Beaten for brushing over the empanadas before baking to achieve a golden, flaky crust.

Preparation Steps for Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Making the delicious filling for your chicken empanadas is the first step to creating this flavorful dish. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onions, red bell pepper, and yellow or orange bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Cilantro: Stir in the minced garlic and freshly chopped cilantro. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Season the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken breast to the skillet. Sprinkle in the chicken bouillon, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Let the Filling Cool: Remove the filling from heat and let it cool to room temperature before assembling the empanadas.

Step 2: Assemble the Empanadas

Next, it’s time to assemble your chicken empanadas with the prepared filling. Follow these steps for a perfect empanada assembly:

1. Prepare the Dough: If using store-bought empanada dough, allow the discs to come to room temperature. If you’re making homemade dough, roll it out into 6-inch rounds.

Health Benefits of Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Chicken empanadas, despite being a delicious treat, also offer some health benefits. The use of lean chicken breast as the main protein source contributes to a low-fat content. Additionally, the inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and onions provides essential vitamins and minerals. By baking instead of frying the empanadas, you can reduce the overall calorie and fat content, making them a healthier option compared to traditional fried snacks.

Origin and History of the Chicken Empanadas Recipe Recipe

The history of chicken empanadas traces back to Spain, where the concept of stuffed pastries was introduced during the Moorish occupation. As Spanish colonizers traveled to Latin America, they brought this culinary tradition with them, leading to the adaptation of empanadas in various countries across the region. Over time, different cultures added their own unique twists to the recipe, resulting in the diverse range of empanada variations we enjoy today.

Delicious Variations Around Chicken Empanadas Recipe

• Empanadas de Carne: Traditional beef empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and olives.
• Empanadas de Queso: Cheese-filled empanadas, often featuring a blend of melted cheeses for a gooey center.
• Empanadas de Pollo y Maíz: Chicken and corn empanadas, a popular variation that adds sweet corn kernels to the filling.
• Empanadas Argentinas: Argentine-style empanadas typically include a variety of fillings like beef, chicken, or ham and cheese.

Chef’s Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Empanadas Recipe

To elevate your chicken empanadas to restaurant-quality perfection, consider the following tips:

• Properly Seal the Edges: Ensure the empanadas are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Chill the Dough: If using homemade dough, refrigerate it before assembling the empanadas to maintain its shape and prevent shrinking in the oven.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the filling with herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences, such as adding smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
• Brush with Egg Wash: For a golden-brown crust, generously brush the empanadas with egg wash before baking to achieve that perfect finish.

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Fill the Empanadas: Spoon a generous portion of the chicken filling onto the center of each empanada dough round. Be careful not to overfill to prevent bursting during baking.

Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges firmly. You can also crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Brush with Egg Wash: Beat an egg and brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color and a crispy texture when baked.

Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Chicken Empanadas Recipe

When making chicken empanadas, there are common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your empanadas turn out perfectly:

• Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to pack the empanadas full of filling, overstuffing can lead to leaks and messy edges. Stick to the recommended amount to prevent the dough from bursting.
• Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the empanadas tightly can result in filling spilling out during baking. Press the edges firmly to secure the filling inside.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash not only adds color but also helps seal the edges and creates a crispy crust. Don’t skip this step for a professional finish.
• Uneven Dough Thickness: Ensure your dough is rolled out evenly to prevent some empanadas from cooking faster than others. Consistent thickness results in uniform baking.
• Overbaking: Watch your empanadas closely towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking. They should be golden brown, not burnt.

Ingredient Alternatives for Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Feel free to get creative with ingredient swaps in your chicken empanadas. Here are some alternative ingredients you can use to customize your recipe:

• Protein Options: Experiment with different proteins like shredded beef, turkey, or even a mix of seafood for unique flavors.
• Veggie Variations: Mix and match vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to tailor the filling to your taste preferences.
• Herb Substitutions: Try using parsley, basil, or oregano instead of cilantro for a different herbal note in your empanadas.
• Seasoning Changes: Adjust the seasonings to suit your palate, adding smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a spicier kick.
• Cheese Options: Incorporate different cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack to vary the texture and taste of your empanadas.

Tips and Tricks to Perfect Your Chicken Empanadas Recipe

For flawless chicken empanadas every time, consider these expert tips to elevate your cooking game:

• Chill the Dough: If making homemade dough, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
• Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the empanadas to guarantee a crispy, golden crust.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall flavor of your empanadas.
• Customize Seasonings: Tailor the seasonings in the filling to your preferences, adjusting salt, pepper, and spices to suit your taste buds.
• Experiment with Shapes: Get creative with different shapes for your empanadas, from traditional half-moons to braided or twisted designs.

Side Dish Suggestions for Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Pair your delicious chicken empanadas with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions to serve alongside your empanadas:

• Spanish Rice: Prepare a fragrant pot of Spanish rice with saffron, tomatoes, and bell peppers for a classic accompaniment.
• Avocado Salad: Toss together ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro with a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
• Black Bean Soup: Serve a warm bowl of black bean soup topped with sour cream, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a hearty side.
• Plantain Chips: Crisp up some homemade plantain chips seasoned with sea salt and a squeeze of lime for a crunchy snack.
• Mango Salsa: Whip up a tropical mango salsa with diced mangoes, red onions, jalapeños, and lime juice to add a sweet and spicy kick to your meal.

FAQ about the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe

How to store the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe after cooking?

Once the chicken empanadas are cooked, allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe be prepared in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken empanadas in advance by assembling them up to the point of baking. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen empanadas to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen empanadas on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What ingredients can be substituted in the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe?

If you need to make substitutions in the recipe, you can swap the chicken for ground beef, turkey, or pork. Additionally, feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mix of black beans, corn, and sweet potatoes for a hearty and flavorful alternative.

How to adapt the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe for a vegetarian version?

To adapt the chicken empanadas recipe for a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and enhance the filling with a combination of vegetarian ingredients. Consider using black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and onions seasoned with your favorite spices for a delicious meat-free option.

Is the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe suitable for children?

Chicken empanadas can be a great meal for children, as they are convenient to eat and packed with protein and veggies. To make them more kid-friendly, you can customize the filling by adding ingredients your child enjoys, such as cheese or mild spices. Ensure the empanadas are cooled to a safe temperature before serving to children.

Conclusion about the recipe Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Mastering the art of making chicken empanadas opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a comforting meal, these savory pastries are sure to delight your taste buds. Experiment with different fillings, shapes, and seasonings to create a personalized version of this classic dish. Embrace the process of making empanadas from scratch, and enjoy the delicious results with your loved ones!

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