If you’re on the hunt for a finger food recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of Latin American flair, look no further than Chicken Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are packed with tender, savory chicken, vibrant vegetables, and warm spices, all wrapped up in a handheld package that’s equally perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you grew up eating empanadas or are trying them for the first time, there’s something irresistibly joyful about biting into a crispy crust and discovering that flavorful filling inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chicken Empanadas comes from simple, everyday ingredients, each one bringing something special to the table! From aromatic veggies to savory seasonings and juicy chicken, every component is essential for creating empanadas that are bursting with flavor, texture, and color.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the vegetables sauté to sweet perfection.
- Yellow onion, finely chopped (1 small): Provides a gentle sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the mixture with irresistible aroma and warmth.
- Red bell pepper, diced (1/2): Offers color and a subtle, sweet crunch that brightens the dish.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers earthiness and that classic empanada flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a hint of smokiness that makes the filling unforgettable.
- Chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the other spices.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and ties the filling together.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a subtle heat and complexity.
- Shredded cooked chicken breast (2 cups): The heart of Chicken Empanadas — juicy, tender, and protein-packed.
- Tomato sauce (1/4 cup): Adds moisture and a touch of tanginess to the filling.
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup): Keeps the filling juicy and helps all the flavors meld together.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): Brightens everything up with a burst of fresh, herbal flavor.
- Empanada dough discs, store-bought or homemade (1 14 oz package): The perfect, flaky vessel for your delicious filling.
- Egg, beaten (1, for egg wash): Gives the empanadas that gorgeous, golden sheen in the oven.
How to Make Chicken Empanadas
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté everything together for about 4 to 5 minutes until the veggies soften and create an inviting, fragrant base — you’ll know it’s ready when the onions are translucent and the kitchen smells amazing!
Step 2: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the spices cook with the veggies for just 30 seconds — enough to bloom the spices and layer on new flavors without burning them.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Simmer
Toss the shredded cooked chicken into the skillet, followed by the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Give everything a good mix and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The filling will thicken up slightly, and the chicken will soak up all those incredible flavors — a real highlight for perfect Chicken Empanadas!
Step 4: Finish with Fresh Cilantro
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. This quick step wakes up all the other flavors and adds a pop of color. Let the filling cool for a few minutes, which makes assembling the empanadas much easier.
Step 5: Assemble the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out your empanada dough discs and place about 2 tablespoons of the slightly cooled filling in the center of each one. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal each empanada tightly. This not only looks pretty but also keeps all that deliciousness inside!
Step 6: Add Egg Wash and Bake
Arrange the filled empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for that signature golden finish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and irresistibly golden brown. Take a moment to savor the gorgeous aroma filling your kitchen!
How to Serve Chicken Empanadas
Garnishes
Elevate your Chicken Empanadas with a few fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds color, while a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce gives the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced filling. Even a quick squeeze of lime can make the flavors sing.
Side Dishes
Chicken Empanadas are so versatile, they work as both a main or a snack! Serve them with a vibrant side salad, black beans and rice, or a refreshing avocado salsa. These sides enhance the Latin flavors and help turn this appetizer into a colorful, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, stack empanadas on a platter with little flags or toothpicks for easy grabbing. They look gorgeous arranged in a circle, radiating out from a bowl of dipping sauce. For a more casual vibe, wrap them in parchment and serve in a basket for that irresistible street food feeling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Chicken Empanadas (lucky you!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make a fantastic next-day snack or lunch.
Freezing
Chicken Empanadas freeze beautifully before baking. Assemble them, place in a single layer on a tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When that snack craving hits, bake straight from frozen — just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for fresh, hot empanadas any time.
Reheating
To bring leftover empanadas back to life, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp, unlike the microwave, which can turn it soft. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap works, but the oven method is worth the wait for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred it and follow the recipe as written for quick and delicious Chicken Empanadas.
Is it possible to make the empanada dough at home?
Yes, if you feel adventurous, homemade empanada dough is a real treat — it just takes a bit of extra time. There are plenty of easy recipes online, or you can keep things simple and use high-quality store-bought discs.
Can I add cheese to my Chicken Empanadas?
Definitely! Fold in a bit of shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or mozzarella) with the chicken filling before assembling. It melts beautifully and adds an extra layer of richness.
Are Chicken Empanadas spicy?
These have just a gentle warmth from the chili powder, but they’re not hot. If you love heat, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch more chili powder to the filling to kick things up.
What dips pair best with Chicken Empanadas?
Fresh, herby chimichurri is a classic, but salsa verde, chipotle mayo, or even a smoky tomato sauce work perfectly. Set out a few options and watch your guests double-dip with delight!
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve made Chicken Empanadas at home, you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved classic across Latin America and beyond. They’re golden, hearty, and packed with flavor in every bite. Give them a try — your friends and family will be thrilled, and you might just find yourself baking a double batch next time!
Print
Chicken Empanadas Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 empanadas 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Chicken Empanadas are a delicious Latin American appetizer featuring a savory filling of shredded chicken, spices, and fresh cilantro encased in a flaky pastry crust. Baked to golden perfection, these hand pies are perfect for parties or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Assembly:
- 1 (14 oz) package empanada dough discs (or homemade dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
- Add Spices: Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook briefly.
- Make Filling: Add chicken, tomato sauce, and broth. Simmer until thickened. Stir in cilantro.
- Prepare Empanadas: Place filling on dough discs. Fold over and crimp edges. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 20–25 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with desired dips.
Notes
- You can freeze unbaked empanadas for later.
- Try adding cheese to the filling for extra flavor.
- Pair with chimichurri, sour cream, or salsa for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
