Description
Make these quick and easy chicken empanadas using pre-made dough and a flavorful, seasoned chicken filling. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a main dish, these baked empanadas are hassle-free and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
For the filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the dough and assembly:
- 1 package store-bought empanada dough (or refrigerated pie crust, rolled and cut into circles)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin the egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add onions and bell peppers, sauté until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well and let simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Assemble the Empanadas
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the empanada dough if needed and cut into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
- Place about 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and seal with a fork.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water and brush over the empanadas for a golden finish.
Step 3: Bake the Empanadas
- Place empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Variations:
- Add shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesy version.
- Increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños for a spicier version.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese for a creamier texture.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: latin american, spanish
Keywords: chicken empanadas, easy empanada recipe, baked empanadas, Latin American snacks, quick appetizer ideas