Delicious Homemade Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
  • 1 egg, beaten

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, canned corn, black beans, green onions, cilantro, jalapeno, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and cut out circles using a large round cookie cutter or a glass. You should get about 12 circles from each pie crust.
  4. Place a heaping spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork.
  5. Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each empanada with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Let the empanadas cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm.

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the empanadas in the oven.
  • Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
  • Large bowl - Used to mix all the ingredients for the filling.
  • Round cookie cutter or glass - Used to cut out circles from the pie crusts.
  • Fork - Used to crimp the edges of the empanadas and seal them.
  • Pastry brush - Used to brush the beaten egg onto the empanadas for a golden color.

Recipe variations

  • Use puff pastry instead of refrigerated pie crusts for a flakier texture.
  • Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pie crusts for a healthier or gluten-free version.
  • Replace the chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
  • Add diced bell peppers or sautéed onions for extra flavor and texture.
  • Include chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked and seasoned vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
  • Add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle powder to spice things up.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or feta.
  • Serve the empanadas with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Recipe overview

Chicken empanadas are delicious, hand-held pies filled with a flavorful mixture of chicken, cheese, corn, and beans. This recipe takes you through the process of making these savory treats from scratch, using refrigerated pie crusts for convenience. Expect to create about two dozen empanadas, perfect for a party appetizer, snack, or even a main dish with a side salad. These empanadas are seasoned with a blend of spices and baked until golden brown and crispy. Not only are they satisfying to eat, but they're also fun and straightforward to make. Enjoy the process and the tasty end result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?
  2. Yes, using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to make this recipe. Simply shred the leftover chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
  4. Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor to the empanadas, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
  5. Can I make the empanadas in advance?
  6. Yes, you can prepare the empanadas ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake. Just make sure to cover them with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
  7. Can I freeze the empanadas?
  8. Yes, these empanadas freeze well. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  9. What can I serve with the empanadas?
  10. These chicken empanadas are delicious on their own but can be served with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. They also pair well with a side salad or some Spanish rice for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Empanadas, the delightfully savory pastries, hail from Spain but have found a home in many Latin American cuisines, each region putting their unique spin on it. The name 'empanada' comes from the Spanish verb 'empanar', meaning to wrap or coat in bread. In the 16th century, empanadas were mentioned in "Libre del Coch" by Ruperto de Nola, who was the chef of the King of Naples. They were known as portable meals for workers, and their filling ingredients often varied based on what was readily available. Now, they serve as a comforting reminder of home for many Latin Americans and a delectable introduction into the cuisine for others. From the sweet to the savory, the simple to the complex, the empanada is a versatile delight that tells the story of its people, one bite at a time. This chicken empanada recipe, in particular, brings a fusion of flavors that are reminiscent of both traditional and modern Latin American kitchens.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.