Chicken Empanadas are the perfect crispy, cheesy hand pies packed with savory flavor. They come together fast with simple ingredients, so you can serve a warm, golden batch in under an hour.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Empanadas
These Empanadas bring comfort and flavor in every bite. They feel special, yet they stay easy enough for busy days.
Perfect for Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Empanadas fit right into Cinco de Mayo menus. They are festive, handheld, and fun to share. Also, they pair well with dips and sides, so guests stay happy.
Quick and Easy with Simple Ingredients
You only need a few pantry staples for these Chicken Empanadas. In fact, store bought dough and cooked chicken cut prep time fast. As a result, you can focus on assembling and baking.
Crispy Outside, Cheesy and Savory Inside
Each bite gives you a crisp golden crust. Meanwhile, the filling stays soft, cheesy, and full of mild spice. That contrast makes these Chicken Empanadas hard to resist.
Ingredients for Chicken Empanadas
These Chicken Empanadas use simple, easy to find ingredients. You likely have most of them ready to go.
Chicken Empanada Filling
You will need shredded cooked chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and diced green chiles. Then, add cumin, salt, and black pepper for a warm, savory flavor. Mix everything well so each bite tastes balanced.
Dough Options and Substitutions
Use store bought pie crusts or empanada dough for ease. However, you can also make dough from scratch if you have extra time. Keep in mind that homemade dough needs chilling.
Egg Wash for a Golden Finish
Whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water. Then brush it over the empanadas before baking. This step gives Chicken Empanadas that shiny, golden crust.
How to Make Chicken Empanadas
Making Chicken Empanadas feels simple when you break it into steps. Follow along and you will have a perfect batch.
Prepare the Chicken Filling
First, shred the cooked chicken into small pieces. Then mix it with cheese, green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything blends evenly.
Roll and Cut the Dough
Next, roll out your dough on a clean surface. Cut it into small circles, then flatten slightly. This helps hold the filling better.
Fill, Fold, and Seal the Empanadas
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Then brush the edges with egg wash. Fold over, press the edges, and crimp tightly so they stay sealed.
Bake Until Golden and Crisp
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the Chicken Empanadas on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg wash, then bake for 20 to 22 minutes until golden.
Tips for the Best Chicken Empanadas
Small details can make a big difference. These tips help your Chicken Empanadas turn out perfect every time.
How to Keep Empanadas from Opening
Always press and crimp the edges well. Also, avoid overfilling because that can cause leaks. A tight seal keeps the filling inside.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Bake until the crust turns golden brown. Meanwhile, do not overcrowd the pan so heat circulates evenly. This way, you get crisp edges and soft centers.
Time-Saving Tips with Store-Bought Ingredients
Use rotisserie chicken to save time. Also, pre made dough cuts prep work in half. As a result, Chicken Empanadas become a quick weeknight option.
Variations and Customization Ideas
You can easily change Chicken Empanadas to fit your taste. Try these ideas to mix things up.
Spicy Chicken Empanadas
Add jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes. This gives your Chicken Empanadas a bold kick. If you like heat, this works great.
Adding Vegetables or Beans
Mix in black beans, corn, or diced peppers. This adds texture and makes the filling more hearty. It also stretches the recipe further.
Cheese Variations for Different Flavors
Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or pepper jack. Each cheese brings a new flavor twist. So you can try a different version each time.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Empanadas taste great on their own. However, the right sides make them even better.
What to Serve with Chicken Empanadas
Serve them with rice, salad, or beans. You can also pair them with a Crispy baked tacos recipe for a quick Mexican-style dinner for a full meal.
Dipping Sauces to Try
Try salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Meanwhile, a creamy dip adds extra flavor. You might also enjoy them with a Taco Bell Mexican pizza copycat recipe crispy and cheesy on the side.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Chicken Empanadas store well, so you can enjoy leftovers later.
How to Store in the Refrigerator
Place cooled empanadas in an airtight container. Store them for 3 to 4 days. Then reheat before serving.
How to Freeze and Reheat Properly
Freeze Chicken Empanadas for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready, reheat in the oven until warm. This keeps them crisp.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
Chicken Empanadas work great for planning ahead. You can prep parts early and save time later.
Preparing the Filling in Advance
Make the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Then assemble fresh when needed. This cuts prep time on busy days.
Assembling Ahead for Easy Baking
You can assemble Chicken Empanadas and refrigerate them. Then bake when ready. This works well for parties or gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor. Just shred and mix with the filling.
Can I Make Empanada Dough from Scratch?
Yes, you can make dough at home. However, it needs extra time and chilling. Store bought dough works faster.
How Do I Reheat Empanadas Without Drying Them Out?
Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. This keeps the crust crisp. Also, cover loosely if needed.
Are Chicken Empanadas Healthy?
Chicken Empanadas offer protein and flavor. However, they contain fat and carbs, so enjoy in moderation.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Mini baked chicken tacos with cheesy filling
- Chicken chimichangas recipe with crispy golden texture
- Salsa verde chicken casserole for an easy comfort meal
- Taco ranch bites easy party appetizer idea
Conclusion
Chicken Empanadas bring crispy texture and cheesy comfort together in one easy recipe. They fit any occasion, from quick dinners to festive parties. For more easy meal ideas, you can also check inspiration on pinterest and keep your menu fresh and exciting.
Chicken Empanadas
Equipment
- Mixing bowl For combining filling
- Baking sheet Line with parchment for easy cleanup
- Rolling Pin To roll dough evenly
Ingredients
- 2 store bought pie crusts or empanada dough rounds
- 1 lb cooked boneless skinless chicken breasts shredded
- 1 ¼ cup Monterey Jack cheese grated
- 2 cans (4.5 oz each) diced green chiles
- 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line baking sheets. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheese, green chiles, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll out dough and cut into small circles. Slightly flatten each circle to prepare for filling.
- Whisk egg with water to create egg wash. Brush edges of dough, add filling to center, fold over, and press edges to seal. Crimp with a fork.
- Place empanadas on baking sheet, brush tops with egg wash, and bake for 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
