Lunch & Dinner

Easy Chicken Empanadas Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Name: Easy Chicken Empanadas Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup finely chopped onion; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 10 empanada dough discs, store-bought or homemade, rolled into 6-inch circles; 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro; 1 egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Barbara Brito April 6, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we delve into the delicious world of easy chicken empanadas, let’s talk partnerships. What goes well with this empanada delight? Consider these delightful accompaniments:

Fresh Salsa, Guacamole, Crème Fraîche or Sour Cream, Crisp Salad. Gather these items, and you’ve got a party on your plate!

What are Easy Chicken Empanadas?

Easy chicken empanadas are savory pastries filled with seasoned chicken, encased in a flaky dough. Originating in Latin America, empanadas can be found in many cultures, each adding unique spins.

Think of them as hand-held delights filled with flavors that dance on your palate. The great part? They are relatively simple to prepare. With a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create these satisfying snacks that everyone will adore.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

There’s a reason I swear by this recipe. Here’s why these easy chicken empanadas are a must-try:

Quick Preparation: With a short ingredient list and simple steps, you can whip these up in under an hour. That makes these empanadas perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings.
Versatility: You can modify the filling with ground beef, vegetables, or other proteins based on what you have in your refrigerator. Empanadas are your culinary canvas.
Make Ahead and Freeze: These pastries freeze beautifully. Preparing them in advance means that you’ll always have a delicious snack ready when cravings hit. Just pop them in the oven when you need a quick meal or party treat.
Crowd-Pleasing Taste: Flavors such as cumin, garlic, and lime juice make these empanadas a hit with both kids and adults. There’s something comforting about biting into a warm pastry filled with perfectly seasoned chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Easy Chicken Empanadas

To craft these chicken empanadas, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup finely chopped onion (use yellow or white)
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 yellow or orange bell pepper, finely chopped
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (about 1½ pounds)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
10 empanada dough discs, store-bought or homemade (Goya preferred)
2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
1 egg, beaten (for sealing and brushing)
1 tablespoon lime juice (adds brightness and depth)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (adds warmth and flavor)

A quick trip to the grocery store and you’re ready to go!

How To Make These?

Making easy chicken empanadas is a cinch! Follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add the Peppers

In the same skillet, toss in the red and yellow/orange peppers. Sauté them for another 3 minutes until they soften. This step enhances sweetness by caramelizing the veggies.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Next, stir in the chicken bouillon powder, shredded chicken, and tomato paste. Add onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, lime juice, and ground cumin. Mix well until everything is coated and heated through. Remove from heat and fold in the freshly chopped cilantro for an added pop.

Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas

Roll out your empanada dough discs to about 6 inches in diameter if they aren’t pre-rolled. Place a generous spoonful of your chicken filling on one side of each circle. Avoid overfilling, or they will burst while baking.

Step 5: Seal and Brush

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to seal the edges nicely. It’s like giving each empanada a little hug! Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that golden finish.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be incredible!

Step 7: Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. The inside will be steamy, and the outside just crispy enough.

Tips for the Best Empanadas

To boost your empanada-making game, consider these handy tips:

Don’t Overwork the Dough: If you’re making your own dough, work it just enough to combine. Overworking can create tough pastry.
Choose the Right Filling Consistency: Ensure the filling isn’t too wet. Excess moisture can leak during baking.
Seal Carefully: Make sure there are no holes in your empanadas. That helps keep the filling inside where it belongs.
Experiment with Spices: Spice it up with chili powder or paprika based on your spice tolerance. Each adjustment can lead to delightful variations.
Make Mini Versions: If hosting a party, consider making smaller empanadas. They are bite-sized and perfect for appetizers!

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition information per empanada (based on using store-bought dough and this filling):

Calories: Approximately 200
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 10g

This is a wholesome choice that combines protein and carbohydrates without compromising taste.

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them properly! Allow the empanadas to cool completely. Then place them in an airtight container. Real talk: they can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, wrap them in plastic and freeze. They can be kept for about three months. Reheat in the oven for that lovely crispy texture.

Recommended Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Empanadas

Thinking about what to serve alongside your chicken empanadas? Here are some crowd-pleasing options:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful treat features grilled corn, cilantro, lime, and creamy dressing. Each bite shouts summer!
Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a tangy dressing. It adds protein and fiber, completing your meal.
Cucumber Salsa: Chopped cucumbers mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro creates a cool palate cleanser. It’s refreshing alongside the rich empanadas.
Rice and Beans: A classic combo bursting with flavor. Seasoned rice complements the empanadas, ensuring no bite goes without joy.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Need to adjust based on pantry items? Here are some substitutes for key ingredients:

Chicken Bouillon Powder: Swap this for vegetable broth or homemade chicken stock if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Shredded Chicken: If you don’t have chicken on hand, try using canned tuna or cooked lentils for a vegetarian option.
Empanada Dough Discs: No empanada dough? Puff pastry works well as an alternative and adds a delightful flakiness.
Lime Juice: If limes are out of reach, substitute with lemon juice or even white vinegar in a pinch for acidity.

Conclusion

There you have it—easy chicken empanadas that are simple to prepare, versatile, and definitely delicious! These little pockets of joy are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying meal, these empanadas won’t disappoint.

They embody home-cooked comfort, which is exactly what you want. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Trust me, each bite will leave you smiling. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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Easy Chicken Empanadas Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 200 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Welcome to the delightful world of easy chicken empanadas, where crispy perfection meets savory filling in every bite. As a food blogger and registered dietitian, I appreciate quick recipes that don’t skimp on flavor.

These empanadas are a staple in my kitchen. They are adaptable, fun to make, and perfect for any gathering. If you’re ready to jump into a culinary adventure, let’s explore how to create these golden, flaky wonders in no time.