Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas – A Latin-Inspired Delight

Popular in many Latin American Cuisines. These empanadas are versatile enough to be served as a delicious appetizer or main course. Topped with a dollop of crema, a sprinkle of scallions and for a little kick a good salsa is always and option.  

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hr 10 minutes
Servings: 12 empanadas

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 cup warm water

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 pound shredded, cooked chicken

• ½ medium onion, diced

• ½ green bell pepper, diced

• ⅛ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• ⅛ cup sliced green olives

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 (1.41-ounce) package sazon seasoning with annatto (such as Goya®)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For Frying:

• 1 cup vegetable oil

Optional Toppings & Serving Ideas:

• Crema or sour cream – for a creamy finish
• Scallions or fresh cilantro – adds a fresh bite
• Spicy salsa, chimichurri, or guacamole – for dipping
• Crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese – for extra richness

Directions

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

Mix flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a large bowl. Add warm water and ¼ cup vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to combine for 3 minutes, forming a dough. Knead on a floured surface for 3 minutes. Wrap in plastic and rest for 15 minutes.

Step 2 – Make the Filling

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shredded chicken and sauté for 2 minutes. Add onion, bell pepper, cilantro, olives, garlic, sazon, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften. Let cool.

Step 3 – Assemble the Empanadas

Divide the dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each into a 4-inch circle. Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center, fold the dough in half, and seal the edges with a fork.

Step 4 – Fry the Empanadas

Heat 1 cup of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry empanadas in batches, cooking each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Baking Option (Healthier Alternative)

For a lower-fat version, bake the empanadas instead of frying:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Brush with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tablespoon water) for a golden finish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Air Fryer Method

For a crispier texture without deep frying:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place empanadas in a single layer in the basket.
3. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Tips for Perfect Empanadas

• Customize the Filling: Add cheese or diced potatoes for extra texture.
• Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes instead of frying.

• Storage & Reheating:

1. Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for crispiness.

Serve these empanadas alongside other appetizers like our Holiday Hot Cranberry Meatballs for a festive and flavorful spread.

Serving Suggestions

These savory, crispy empanadas pair well with:

🥗 Fresh Side Salad – A light salad with avocado, tomatoes, and lime dressing balances the richness.

🍚 Rice & Beans – Serve with black beans and Spanish rice for a complete meal.

🥑 Guacamole & Salsa – Dipping sauces like pico de gallo, chimichurri, or a spicy tomatillo salsa enhance the flavors.

🌽 Corn Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – A smoky, cheesy side that complements the empanadas.

FAQs About Chicken Empanadas

Q: Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?

A: Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them with an egg wash for a golden finish, and bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Q: How do I store leftover empanadas?

A: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Q: Are there other filling options?

A: Absolutely! Empanadas are versatile and can be filled with beef, cheese, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruit or chocolate for a dessert version.

Q: What can I serve with chicken empanadas?

A: Pair them with a side of rice and beans, a fresh salad, or dipping sauces like chimichurri, guacamole, or spicy salsa.