Chicken Empanadas

Golden, flaky, and bursting with bold flavors, Chicken Empanadas are a true crowd-pleaser. These hand-held savory pastries are filled with spiced chicken, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs that balance richness with zest. Perfectly baked to achieve a crispy shell, they’re as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat.

This dish brings together comfort and tradition, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or festive gatherings. Pair them with dipping sauces like salsa verde, guacamole, or a tangy chimichurri for an added flavor punch. Easy to make ahead and bake fresh when needed, these empanadas are sure to be a favorite anytime you’re craving something deliciously satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup bell peppers, finely diced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 package empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in shredded chicken, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro.

4. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling into the center of each empanada disc. Fold over to form a half-moon shape and seal edges with a fork.

5. Brush each empanada with egg wash and place on a lined baking sheet.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm with dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or chimichurri.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 10 empanadas

Flavorful Chicken Empanadas – A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes bring as much joy to the table as freshly baked chicken empanadas. Golden, flaky, and generously filled with a savory mixture of tender chicken and spices, these handheld pastries represent comfort food at its finest. Known and loved across Latin America, empanadas are more than just a snack or appetizer, they are a cultural staple enjoyed at family gatherings, celebrations, and street food markets.

The beauty of chicken empanadas lies in their versatility. They can be baked or fried, filled with a variety of ingredients, and paired with different dipping sauces depending on your mood. While the most traditional fillings often include beef or cheese, chicken empanadas offer a lighter, protein-rich alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether enjoyed as a hearty snack, a lunchbox treat, or the star of a dinner spread, they never fail to satisfy.

The Cultural Roots of Empanadas

Empanadas trace their origins back to Spain, where they were inspired by Middle Eastern meat pies introduced during the Moorish occupation. The Spanish word “empanar” means “to wrap in bread,” and that is exactly what this dish represents: dough folded over savory fillings. When Spanish explorers traveled to Latin America, they brought the concept of empanadas with them, and each region adapted the recipe with its own local flavors and ingredients.

In Argentina, beef empanadas reign supreme, seasoned with paprika, cumin, and hard-boiled eggs. In Colombia and Venezuela, empanadas are often made with cornmeal dough and fried until crispy. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, where Spanish influence shaped much of the cuisine, empanadas are a beloved street food filled with meats, vegetables, and sometimes even sweet ingredients. Chicken empanadas are universally popular because they provide a balance between richness and lightness, appealing to all ages.

What Makes Chicken Empanadas Special

The magic of chicken empanadas comes from the balance of textures and flavors. The dough is buttery and flaky, offering the perfect crunch when baked or fried. Inside, shredded chicken is combined with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a medley of spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder. This blend creates a filling that is both savory and aromatic, with just the right hint of warmth and spice.

Additionally, chicken empanadas are a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare a large batch, freeze them, and bake them whenever you need a quick meal or appetizer. This makes them perfect for busy families, students, or anyone looking for meal-prep ideas that don’t sacrifice taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Empanadas

While empanadas are often thought of as indulgent, chicken empanadas offer nutritional perks. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, supporting muscle repair and keeping you feeling full. The vegetables added to the filling provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Baking empanadas instead of frying them significantly reduces the fat content, making them a healthier option without compromising on flavor.

Pairing them with fresh salsas, guacamole, or a light salad adds extra nutrients and freshness to the meal. With the right balance of ingredients, chicken empanadas can be part of a wholesome and satisfying diet.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Empanadas

While empanadas are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides and sauces elevates the experience:

• Salsa Verde: A tangy green sauce made with tomatillos, cilantro, and lime juice.

• Chimichurri: A bold Argentinean sauce with parsley, garlic, and vinegar.

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds a cooling contrast to the spices.

• Simple Salads: Fresh greens with citrus vinaigrette balance the richness.

• Rice and Beans: A classic pairing that turns empanadas into a hearty meal.

These pairings not only complement the flavors but also enhance the cultural authenticity of the dish.

Variations of Chicken Empanadas

One of the most enjoyable aspects of empanadas is how adaptable they are. A few creative variations include:

• Cheesy Chicken Empanadas: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the filling for a gooey surprise.

• Spicy Chicken Empanadas: Include jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes for a fiery kick.

• BBQ Chicken Empanadas: Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce before filling the dough.

• Mediterranean Twist: Mix in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.

• Breakfast Empanadas: Use scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, and a sprinkle of cheese for a morning-friendly version.

By experimenting with different ingredients, you can customize empanadas to suit any occasion or craving.

Tips for the Best Chicken Empanadas

To achieve empanadas that are golden, flavorful, and perfectly crisp, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use cold dough – Keeping the dough chilled ensures flakiness.

2. Don’t overfill – Too much filling makes it difficult to seal and may cause leaking.

3. Seal properly – Use a fork or crimping technique to lock in the filling.

4. Apply an egg wash – Brushing with beaten egg gives the crust a golden, glossy finish.

5. Bake on parchment paper – Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.

6. Experiment with sauces – Empanadas shine when paired with vibrant dips.

Why This Dish Belongs in Your Recipe Collection

Chicken empanadas are more than just a recipe; they are an experience. They represent tradition, versatility, and flavor all in one bite. From family dinners to game-day snacks, they fit seamlessly into every occasion. Because they are portable and mess-free, they also make great lunchbox additions or picnic treats.

The ability to prepare them ahead of time makes them practical, while the endless filling variations keep them exciting. Their cultural heritage adds depth and connection to every bite, reminding us of the global journey that shaped this dish.

Conclusion

Chicken empanadas are a perfect example of comfort food that transcends borders. With their crispy, golden crust and flavorful spiced chicken filling, they are beloved by families worldwide. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, they prove that a simple folded pastry can bring people together around the table.

Whether you serve them as appetizers at a party, a snack on the go, or the centerpiece of a cozy dinner, chicken empanadas will always deliver warmth, flavor, and joy. Adding them to your recipe collection means having a go-to dish that never fails to impress.