When the weekend rolls around and the smell of spicy wings lingers in the air, I can’t help but crave something that captures the essence of that delicious flavor in a fun, finger-friendly way. Enter my Best Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas! These delightful little pockets are a perfect marriage of crispy pastry and creamy buffalo chicken filling, making them ideal for game day gatherings or cozy nights in. They’re so satisfying, you might just want to make them for every occasion!
On those busy weeknights or when entertaining friends, finding the right appetizer can be daunting. These empanadas solve that problem with ease! They’re not just simple to whip up but pack a punch of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Picture a warm, gooey center bursting with the classic buffalo chicken dip, all wrapped in a buttery, golden-brown crust. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging with family, these empanadas promise to elevate the moment. So, let’s get cooking!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas a must-try?
Crispy Perfection: Each empanada features a buttery, golden-brown crust that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy buffalo chicken filling combined with zesty ranch dressing creates an irresistible combination that tantalizes the taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for parties or game day, these handheld delights will keep everyone coming back for more!
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, they’re perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up the filling with your favorite ingredients; you can even go vegetarian by substituting chicken!
Elevate your next get-together with these Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas that guarantee satisfaction for both you and your guests.
Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas Ingredients
For the Filling
• Chicken – 10 oz shredded into 1/2-inch pieces for better distribution; rotisserie chicken is an excellent option.
• Cheddar Cheese – 1/2 cup (preferably Tillamook) for a smoother melt and added creaminess.
• Buffalo Sauce – 3/4 cup (Frank’s RedHot recommended) to provide the signature spicy kick.
• Ranch Dressing – 3 tbsp to enhance flavor and add a creamy texture.
• Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp for an aromatic flavor boost to the filling.
For the Empanada Shells
• Empanada Discs – 10, thawed to prevent cracking; these serve as the crispy exterior.
• Canola Oil – 24 oz for frying, giving the empanadas a perfect crispy finish.
For the Blue Cheese Drizzle
• Blue Cheese – 3/4 cup, crumbled finely to create a rich and flavorful drizzle.
• Honey – 2 tbsp to balance the spiciness in your buffalo chicken dip and drizzle.
• Milk – 2 tbsp to help emulsify the blue cheese into a smooth sauce.
Each bite of these Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas is sure to be a delightful adventure! Enjoy gathering the ingredients and getting ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious appetizer.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas
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Prepare Empanada Discs: Let the empanada discs sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to prevent cracking and ensure they fold easily without breaking.
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Shred Chicken: Shred the chicken into 1/2-inch pieces using two forks. This gentle approach helps achieve an even size, ensuring a balanced filling in every empanada.
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Make Blue Cheese Drizzle: Blend crumbled blue cheese, honey, and milk in a bowl until smooth. Set this aside as it will add a rich, creamy layer to your empanadas.
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Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. The mixture should be moist but not runny—a perfect filling!
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Fill Empanadas: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the savory filling onto each thawed empanada disc. Fold the dough in half and seal the edges securely with a fork to keep the filling inside.
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Heat Oil: In a deep skillet, heat canola oil to 375°F. It’s essential to check the oil with a thermometer for accurate frying temperature to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Fry Empanadas: Carefully fry the empanadas in batches (2-3 at a time) for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember, patience yields the crunch you crave!
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Drain and Season: Once fried, transfer the empanadas to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season them with a sprinkle of salt while they’re hot, and serve warm with the blue cheese drizzle.
Optional: Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas
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Avoid Cracking: Let the empanada discs sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This prevents cracking when you fold them.
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Seal Edges Well: Make sure to press the edges firmly with a fork, preventing any precious buffalo chicken dip filling from leaking out during frying.
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Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the canola oil stays at 375°F. This guarantees a crispy exterior and evenly cooked empanadas.
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Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry 2-3 empanadas at a time. This helps achieve that golden brown finish without making them greasy.
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Season Immediately: Salt your fried empanadas right after draining them. This helps the seasoning stick better for optimal flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas
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Refrigeration: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
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Freezing: Freeze cooled empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months, ensuring your buffalo chicken dip empanadas are ready for future cravings.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or use an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes. This will maintain their crispy texture. Reserve the microwave for last-minute reheating, as it can make them soggy.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas?
Pairing these delightful empanadas with the right sides will elevate your gathering or cozy night in. Let’s make your meal unforgettable!
- Cool Ranch Dressing: A classic side that complements the spicy buffalo filling while providing a refreshing dip option.
- Crunchy Celery and Carrots: Fresh, crisp vegetables that offer a satisfying crunch and balance the richness of the empanadas!
- Savory Guacamole: The creaminess of ripe avocado adds a delicious contrast, creating a delightful mix of flavors.
- Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa brings an extra kick to the table and enhances every bite of your empanadas.
- Loaded Nachos: A sharing platter of cheesy, crispy nachos will complement the flavors beautifully, keeping the fun going!
- Blue Cheese Wedge Salad: The tangy flavors of a wedge salad topped with blue cheese dressing echo the empanadas’ filling perfectly.
You can even pair the empanadas with some cheerful drinks or a sweet dessert for a comprehensive feast! Enjoy the delicious adventure!
Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas Variations
Feel free to personalize these empanadas to match your taste buds and dietary preferences.
- Turkey Twist: Substitute shredded chicken with shredded turkey for a deliciously different take on your favorite filling.
- Veggie Delight: Use a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a hearty vegetarian version that still packs a flavor punch.
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a zesty new flavor profile that melts beautifully.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick that spice lovers will appreciate.
- Creamy Ranch: Replace ranch dressing with homemade herb-infused cream cheese for a richer, decadent filling.
- Flavorful Fusions: Experiment with barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a smoky twist that changes everything about these empanadas.
- Baked Option: Instead of frying, brush the empanadas with egg wash and bake them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative.
- Sweet Surprise: Add a dash of honey or brown sugar to the filling for a touch of sweetness that balances out the heat.
These variations will make every bite an adventure, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by mixing together the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. You can also fill the empanada discs and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply heat canola oil to 375°F and fry the frozen empanadas for approx. 3-4 minutes per side, ensuring they are golden and crispy. This straightforward prep allows you to serve a delicious appetizer with minimal effort on game day!
Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, poach chicken breasts, or even repurpose leftover grilled chicken. The key is to shred it into 1/2-inch pieces to ensure the filling is well-distributed and mouthwatering in every bite.
How should I store leftover empanadas?
Very good question! Store any leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are properly cooled before sealing them to retain their texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas?
Certainly! After frying, let the empanadas cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and enjoy them within 2 months. This method preserves their deliciousness for future snacking!
How do I reheat frozen empanadas?
To reheat your frozen empanadas and keep that delightful crunch, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, use an air fryer set to 375°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it may make the empanadas soggy.
What should I do if the empanadas are leaking filling during frying?
If you find your empanadas leaking during frying, it’s likely that the edges weren’t sealed well enough before cooking. In the future, make sure to press the edges firmly with a fork to secure them. A little rule of thumb: Always check for any holes in the dough and patch them up!
Can I modify the recipe to be vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shredded vegetables, or a plant-based protein like tofu or jackfruit. Feel free to add in your favorite spices or chopped veggies to keep the flavor vibrant and enjoyable!
Buffalo Chicken Dip Empanadas: The Ultimate Game Day Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let the empanada discs sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to prevent cracking and ensure they fold easily without breaking.
- Shred the chicken into 1/2-inch pieces using two forks.
- Blend crumbled blue cheese, honey, and milk in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of the savory filling onto each thawed empanada disc. Fold the dough in half and seal the edges with a fork.
- In a deep skillet, heat canola oil to 375°F.
- Carefully fry the empanadas in batches (2-3 at a time) for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Once fried, transfer the empanadas to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and season with salt.