Delicious Chicken Empanadas Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious chicken empanadas recipe! In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare mouthwatering empanadas stuffed with flavorful chicken filling. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delightful and savory treat.
Empanadas are a traditional dish originating from Latin America and have become popular all over the world. These hand-held pastries are made with a dough that is filled with various ingredients and then baked or fried until golden and crispy. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making the dough, preparing the chicken filling, assembling the empanadas, and baking them to perfection.
So, let's get started and bring the flavors of Latin America to your kitchen with these irresistible chicken empanadas!
Ingredients
To make delicious chicken empanadas, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let's move on to the next step.
Preparing the Dough
To make delicious chicken empanadas, you need to start with the perfect dough. The dough is what gives the empanadas their signature flaky and crispy texture. Follow these simple steps to prepare the dough for your savory treats.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Make sure the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cut in the fat: Add 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes, to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the liquid: Slowly pour in 1/4 cup of ice-cold water while mixing the dough with a fork. Continue adding water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Allow the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough: Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a small bowl to cut out circles with a diameter of about 4-5 inches.
- Repeat the process: Gather the dough scraps, re-roll them, and cut out more circles until you have used all the dough. You should be able to make around 12 empanada shells.
Now that you have prepared the dough for your chicken empanadas, you are ready to move on to the next step – filling them with the flavorful chicken mixture.
Making the Chicken Filling
To create the delicious chicken filling for your empanadas, follow these simple steps:
- Cooking the Chicken: Start by cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Shredding the Chicken: Once the chicken has cooled, shred it using two forks. Pull the forks in opposite directions to separate the chicken into thin, bite-sized pieces. Ensure that the chicken is evenly shredded for a consistent filling.
- Sautéing the Vegetables: In the same pan used to cook the chicken, add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the filling.
- Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and any additional ingredients you desire, such as corn or black beans. Season the mixture with your preferred spices, such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Adding Moisture: To ensure the filling stays moist and flavorful, add a liquid element. This can be in the form of chicken broth, tomato sauce, or even a splash of lime juice. The moisture will help bind the ingredients together and prevent the filling from drying out during baking.
- Adjusting the Seasonings: Taste the chicken filling and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed to enhance the flavors. Remember, the filling should be well-seasoned to complement the dough.
- Allowing the Filling to Cool: Before filling the empanadas, allow the chicken mixture to cool completely. This will make it easier to handle and prevent the dough from becoming soggy. You can refrigerate the filling for a while if needed.
By following these steps, you will have a flavorful and moist chicken filling ready to be enclosed in the empanada dough. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique variation of this classic recipe.
Filling and Shaping the Empanadas
To bring the delicious chicken empanadas to life, you need to fill and shape them just right. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Prepare the filling: Start by making the flavorful chicken filling. In a skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add diced cooked chicken, along with your choice of spices such as cumin, paprika, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Roll out the dough: Take the prepared empanada dough and divide it into small portions. Dust your work surface with flour and roll out each portion into a round circle about 5-6 inches in diameter. Ensure that the circles are of even thickness.
- Add the filling: Place a spoonful of the chicken filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill, as it may make it difficult to seal the empanadas. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Use your fingers to gently press the edges together.
- Seal the empanadas: To seal the empanadas, use your fingers to crimp the edges. Start at one end and fold a small section of the dough over itself, repeating this process all the way along the edge until the empanada is fully sealed. This crimping technique not only ensures the filling stays inside but also creates a beautiful pattern on the edges.
- Create a decorative edge: If you want to add an extra touch to your empanadas, you can create a decorative edge by pressing the tines of a fork along the sealed edge of the dough. This will give your empanadas a professional and visually appealing look.
- Repeat the process: Repeat the filling and shaping process with the remaining dough and filling until you have used them all. As you work, place the shaped empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the empanadas with a beaten egg to give them a golden and glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Once baked, remove the empanadas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as a delightful appetizer or a satisfying main course. These chicken empanadas are perfect for any occasion and are sure to please everyone's taste buds.
Now that you have mastered the art of filling and shaping empanadas, it's time to savor the delicious flavors of these savory treats. Enjoy every bite of the crispy crust and the flavorful chicken filling. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these chicken empanadas are a surefire hit.
Baking the Empanadas
Once you have filled the empanada dough with the delicious chicken filling, it's time to bake them to golden perfection. Follow these simple steps to achieve a crispy and flavorful result.
Preparing the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and make sure the rack is placed in the center. This will ensure even heat distribution and a uniform bake for your empanadas.
Arranging the Empanadas
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the filled empanadas on the sheet, leaving some space between each one. This will allow the heat to circulate and ensure even browning.
Brushing with Egg Wash
To give your empanadas a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish, brush them with an egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and a tablespoon of water. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the surface of each empanada with the egg wash.
Baking Time
Place the baking sheet with the empanadas in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Cooling and Serving
Once the empanadas are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This will allow the filling to set and prevent any burning accidents. Serve the empanadas warm as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
Baking the empanadas not only brings out their delicious flavors but also gives them a satisfying crunch. Follow these steps, and you'll be rewarded with a batch of mouthwatering chicken empanadas that are sure to impress. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
After you have baked your delicious chicken empanadas to golden perfection, it's time to think about serving them. Here are some serving suggestions to take your empanadas to the next level:
- Dipping Sauces: Empanadas are even more delightful when paired with a tasty dipping sauce. Consider serving them with a classic chimichurri sauce, a tangy salsa verde, or a creamy garlic aioli. These sauces will add an extra burst of flavor to each bite.
- Side Salad: Complement the savory empanadas with a fresh side salad. Opt for a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette dressing or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. The crispness of the salad will provide a nice contrast to the warm and flaky empanadas.
- Rice and Beans: Create a complete and satisfying meal by serving the chicken empanadas with a side of fluffy white rice and flavorful beans. The combination of the empanadas with the rice and beans will offer a hearty and well-balanced dish for your guests to enjoy.
- Guacamole: Add a touch of creaminess and richness to your empanadas by serving them with a side of homemade guacamole. The smooth avocado combined with the tangy lime juice and fresh cilantro will complement the flavors of the empanadas perfectly.
- Fresh Salsa: Enhance the taste of your empanadas by serving them with a vibrant and colorful fresh salsa. Prepare a salsa using ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. The bright flavors of the salsa will add a burst of freshness to each bite.
- Coleslaw: For a crunchy and refreshing side dish, consider serving the empanadas with a creamy coleslaw. The creamy dressing combined with the crisp cabbage and carrots will provide a delightful contrast to the warm and savory empanadas.
Remember, these serving suggestions are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and accompaniments. The goal is to create a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience for you and your guests. So go ahead and serve your delicious chicken empanadas with a side of your choice and let the flavors shine!
Variations
There are numerous ways to customize your chicken empanadas recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Cheese and Jalapeno Empanadas
For an extra kick of flavor, add some diced jalapenos and shredded cheese to your chicken filling. The spicy jalapenos and gooey cheese will add an irresistible twist to your empanadas.
2. Spinach and Feta Empanadas
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese. The combination of earthy spinach and tangy feta will create a delicious and savory filling.
3. BBQ Chicken Empanadas
For a smoky and tangy twist, mix your shredded chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce. The barbecue flavor will infuse the chicken and add a mouthwatering element to your empanadas.
4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Empanadas
For a hearty and slightly sweet variation, replace the chicken with roasted sweet potatoes and cooked black beans. The creamy sweet potatoes and the earthy black beans will create a delightful filling that is both satisfying and flavorful.
5. Buffalo Chicken Empanadas
If you're a fan of spicy flavors, toss your shredded chicken with some buffalo sauce before filling your empanadas. The tangy and fiery buffalo sauce will elevate the chicken filling and create a crave-worthy empanada.
6. Mushroom and Gruyere Empanadas
For a sophisticated twist, sauté some mushrooms and mix them with shredded Gruyere cheese. The earthy mushrooms and nutty Gruyere will create a rich and indulgent filling that is perfect for a gourmet empanada.
7. Mediterranean Empanadas
Take your taste buds on a trip to the Mediterranean by filling your empanadas with a mixture of diced tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and herbs like oregano and basil. This vibrant and flavorful filling will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece or Italy.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique chicken empanadas recipe. The possibilities are endless, and you're sure to impress your friends and family with your culinary creations. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure that your chicken empanadas turn out perfectly every time:
- Chill the dough: After preparing the dough for your empanadas, it's important to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to work with and will result in a flakier crust.
- Don't overfill: While it may be tempting to stuff your empanadas with as much filling as possible, it's important not to overfill them. Overfilling can cause the empanadas to burst open during baking, resulting in a messy and unevenly cooked final product. Instead, use a generous but not excessive amount of filling.
- Seal the edges properly: To ensure that your empanadas stay sealed while baking, it's crucial to properly seal the edges. Use a fork or your fingers to press the edges together firmly and create a tight seal. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Brush with egg wash: Before baking your empanadas, brush the tops with an egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden brown color and a shiny finish. Simply beat an egg with a splash of water and brush it over the tops of the empanadas using a pastry brush.
- Preheat the oven: Make sure to preheat your oven to the specified temperature before baking the empanadas. This will ensure that they cook evenly and develop a crispy crust. Waiting for the oven to heat up before baking is a crucial step that should not be overlooked.
- Rotate the baking sheet: If you're baking multiple trays of empanadas at once, it's a good idea to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the cooking time. This will help ensure that all the empanadas bake evenly and brown evenly on all sides.
- Let them cool before serving: Once the empanadas are done baking, resist the urge to dig in right away. Give them some time to cool slightly before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent any burns from the hot filling.
- Serve with dipping sauce: Empanadas are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. Some popular options include chimichurri sauce, salsa, or a spicy aioli. Offer a few different dipping sauces to cater to different tastes.
By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to create mouthwatering chicken empanadas that are sure to impress. Enjoy!
Conclusion
By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can easily recreate this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. From making the dough to preparing the filling and assembling the empanadas, every detail has been covered to ensure your success.
Remember, the key to achieving the perfect empanadas lies in using high-quality ingredients, paying attention to the cooking techniques, and giving it a personal touch with your choice of seasonings. Feel free to experiment with different fillings and spices to create your own unique variations.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking these delectable chicken empanadas today. Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll have a new go-to recipe to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
