Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken Empanadas
Baked chicken empanadas are the ultimate comfort food with a delicious twist. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, snack, or main dish, these empanadas will quickly become a family favorite. Here are the top reasons why you’ll love this dish:
Flavorful Filling
The filling of these empanadas combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and vegetables. The combination of cumin, paprika, chili powder, and oregano ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a savory, satisfying blend that makes each empanada irresistible.
Healthier Option
Unlike traditional empanadas that are fried, these baked versions provide a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste. Baking allows the dough to become crispy and golden while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Baked chicken empanadas are incredibly versatile. They make a great appetizer for a party, a quick snack after a busy day, or even a filling main dish for lunch or dinner. No matter the occasion, these empanadas fit the bill.
Freezer-Friendly
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s freezer-friendly. You can make a large batch, freeze the empanadas, and enjoy them later. Simply bake from frozen for a fast and delicious meal on busy days.
How to Make Baked Chicken Empanadas
Now that you know why you’ll love these baked chicken empanadas, let’s dive into how to make them. Follow this step-by-step guide to create these flavorful, crispy treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg
- ½ cup cold water
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add the cooked chicken and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro (optional). Let the filling cool completely.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring to form a dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Empanadas:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about ⅛-inch thick. Using a round cutter or a bowl, cut out 5-6 inch circles.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled chicken filling in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the empanada.
- Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake:
- Brush the tops of the empanadas with the egg wash (beaten egg and water mixture).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Empanadas
Creating the perfect baked chicken empanadas is easy with these helpful tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s a great shortcut and adds extra flavor to the filling.
- Add Cheese: For a creamy and indulgent twist, add shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) to the chicken filling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake the empanadas when you’re ready to enjoy them.
- Freeze for Later: Make a batch of empanadas, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Baked chicken empanadas can be served in many ways to suit your needs:
- With Dipping Sauces: Pair the empanadas with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or chimichurri for extra flavor.
- As a Main Dish: Serve with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Party Appetizer: Cut the empanadas into smaller pieces to serve as bite-sized snacks at parties or gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes! Feel free to substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian options like beans, spinach, or cheese for a meatless empanada.
2. How do I store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
3. Can I make these empanadas ahead of time and freeze them?
Absolutely! Assemble the empanadas, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from the freezer, just adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I bake empanadas without egg wash?
Yes, you can. While the egg wash gives the empanadas a shiny, golden finish, you can skip it if you prefer. You can brush the empanadas with olive oil or melted butter for a similar effect.
5. How can I make the dough more tender?
To ensure a tender dough, be sure not to overwork it. Knead it gently and refrigerate the dough before rolling it out. This helps the butter to stay cold and the dough to remain flaky.
Conclusion
Baked chicken empanadas are a delicious, versatile, and healthier alternative to fried empanadas. With a savory chicken filling and a crispy, golden crust, these empanadas will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a party, or simply craving a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to deliver. Don’t forget to try different variations and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces!