Description
These delicious Chicken Empanadas feature a savory filling of shredded chicken, sautéed peppers, and spices encased in golden, flaky dough, baked to perfection. Perfect for a satisfying main course with Latin American flair, they are easy to prepare and ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Dough and Finishing
- 1 package empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Simmer the mixture: Add tomato sauce and chicken broth to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the empanadas.
- Assemble the empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a spoonful of the slightly cooled filling in the center of each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly with a fork to seal properly.
- Apply egg wash and bake: Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to promote a golden brown finish. Arrange the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake until golden: Bake the empanadas in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the flavors fully and avoid burning.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey or ground beef for the chicken to vary the protein.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of oregano or a splash of lime juice to the filling mixture.
- Serve the empanadas with chimichurri sauce or salsa as a delicious accompaniment.
