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If you’re in the mood for a savory, flavorful snack or meal, these Easy Chicken Empanadas are the perfect choice. With their golden, crispy crust and a hearty, spiced chicken filling, they’re a delicious handheld treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something satisfying, these empanadas are sure to hit the spot. They offer a delightful contrast of textures and a blend of flavors that will leave you coming back for more.

I first made chicken empanadas during a busy week when I wanted something filling but didn’t have much time to cook. After stumbling upon a few empanada recipes, I decided to give it a go. I was amazed at how easy it was to put together, and the result was a plate of warm, perfectly spiced empanadas. Everyone who tried them loved how crispy they were on the outside, with a juicy chicken filling on the inside. Since then, they’ve become a regular in my meal rotation.

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These Easy Chicken Empanadas are incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the filling by adding ingredients like olives, cheese, or herbs to suit your taste. Whether you prefer them baked or fried, this recipe is quick and simple enough for both weeknight dinners or special occasions. They can even be made ahead of time and frozen, making them perfect for meal prepping.

Why This Easy Chicken Empanadas?

Selling Points:

Simple to Make: These empanadas come together quickly with minimal effort.
Customizable: Add extra veggies, cheese, or spices to the filling for personalized flavors.
Perfect Texture: The crispy exterior and juicy filling offer the perfect combination.
Versatile: Serve as a main dish, snack, or appetizer, making them great for any occasion.
Freezable: You can make them in advance and freeze for easy meal prep.

What You Need for Easy Chicken Empanadas

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ingredients:

Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut)
Empanada Dough: 12 to 14 empanada discs (store-bought or homemade)
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Bell Pepper: 1 small, finely chopped (optional)
Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
Cumin: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Chili Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for a little heat)
Salt & Pepper: To taste
Cheese: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten (for brushing on the empanadas before baking)

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How to Make Easy Chicken Empanadas

Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Chicken:
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing it well with the spice mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the shredded cheese.
Assemble the Empanadas:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out the empanada discs on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto the center of each disc. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Bake the Empanadas:
Brush the tops of the empanadas with the beaten egg to give them a golden, crispy finish. Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the empanadas cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Tips for the Perfect Easy Chicken Empanadas

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy filling, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff the empanadas. Overfilling can make it hard to seal the edges properly and cause the filling to spill out while baking.
Baking vs. Frying: These empanadas can be baked for a lighter option, but you can also fry them in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side for an extra crispy texture.
Dough Alternatives: If you’re in a hurry, you can use store-bought empanada dough or pie crust instead of making your own.
Freezing Tip: To freeze uncooked empanadas, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

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Substitutions and Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use beans, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables instead of chicken for a vegetarian alternative.
Cheese Options: Swap the cheese for your favorite variety. Feta, goat cheese, or even a spicy pepper jack would be great alternatives.
Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
Herb Variations: Add fresh cilantro, parsley, or oregano to the filling to brighten the flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

To make these empanadas healthier, try these substitutions:

Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat or gluten-free dough for a healthier crust.
Baking Instead of Frying: For a lighter version, always opt for baking instead of frying the empanadas.
Lower-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheese or skip the cheese altogether to reduce calories.
Add Veggies: Add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or corn to the filling to boost fiber and nutrients.

Closing for Easy Chicken Empanadas

These Easy Chicken Empanadas are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to party appetizers. With their crispy golden crust and savory chicken filling, they’re bound to be a hit. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, and bake them whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal. So, next time you’re looking for something delicious and easy, give these empanadas a try—you won’t regret it!

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Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Chicken Empanadas

Can I make the empanadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the empanadas in advance, freeze them, and bake them when you’re ready.
Can I use a different filling for these empanadas?
Absolutely! You can fill the empanadas with beef, pork, vegetables, or even a combination of your favorite ingredients.
What’s the best way to store leftover empanadas?
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking them?
Yes, frying gives the empanadas an extra crispy texture. Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Can I make these empanadas gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free empanada dough or a gluten-free pie crust to make them gluten-free.
How do I prevent the empanadas from leaking during baking?
Make sure to seal the edges of the empanadas tightly and crimp them with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking out.
What dipping sauces go well with these empanadas?
You can serve them with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce.
Can I freeze cooked empanadas?
It’s best to freeze uncooked empanadas and bake them fresh. If you must freeze cooked ones, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I make these empanadas without cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
How long will it take to bake the empanadas?
Bake the empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

In conclusion, Easy Chicken Empanadas are the perfect blend of flavor, crunch, and convenience. Whether you make them for a quick meal or to impress your guests, these empanadas are guaranteed to be a hit. With plenty of options for customization and meal prep, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy every bite of these crispy, savory treats!