Chicken Empanadas Recipe With Homemade Dough

Making chicken empanadas at home is easier than you think. With basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create this delicious dish without any stress.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 small onion, chopped

- 1 clove garlic, minced

- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped

- 1/2 cup tomato sauce

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

- 1 egg

- 1/3 cup cold water (plus more if needed)

- 1 tablespoon white vinegar

- 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.

2. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture looks like crumbs.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, water, and vinegar together.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the flour and mix until a dough forms. Add more water if needed.

5. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface until smooth.

6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

7. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

8. Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

9. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

10. Add shredded chicken, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

11. Stir well and let the mixture cook for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and let it cool.

12. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

13. Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles using a round cutter or a small bowl.

14. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.

15. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.

16. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

17. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

18. Let them cool slightly before serving.

To get the most out of your chicken empanadas recipe, here are some simple and helpful tips to follow:

1. Use leftover chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftovers are a quick and easy choice. They add flavor, reduce prep time, and help you avoid wasting food in the kitchen.

2. Cool the filling: Allow the chicken mixture to cool completely before adding it to the dough. This helps prevent soggy bottoms and makes the dough easier to handle and seal.

3. Seal tightly: Use a fork or your fingers to press the edges firmly. This step helps avoid leaks during baking and keeps the filling inside where it belongs.

4. Don't overfill: Use just a spoonful of filling for each empanada. Overstuffing may cause the dough to tear or the filling to spill out while cooking.

5. Use egg wash: Brushing the tops with a beaten egg gives your empanadas a golden, glossy finish. It also helps the pastry stay crisp and look more appealing.

6. Try homemade dough: Making your own dough gives a better texture and flavor. It also allows you to adjust the thickness and ingredients to suit your taste.

7. Bake or fry: Baking gives a healthier and less greasy result, while frying makes the crust crispier. Choose based on your preference and the type of texture you want.

While the chicken empanadas recipe is a classic, there are many other delicious fillings you can explore. Here are some ideas to try:

1. Beef and Potato - This traditional filling combines ground beef with soft potatoes and spices for a hearty flavor.

2. Cheese and Spinach - A vegetarian option that mixes creamy cheese with spinach, perfect for a lighter empanada.

3. Ham and Cheese - Simple and satisfying, this filling melts nicely inside the pastry.

4. Tuna and Onion - Popular in Spain, this version includes canned tuna, onion, and sometimes tomato.

5. Mushroom and Cheese - Earthy mushrooms and gooey cheese make a great meat-free option.

6. Sweet Corn and Cheese - This sweet and savory combination is a hit with kids and adults alike.

7. Apple Cinnamon - For a dessert twist, try a filling made of apples, sugar, and cinnamon.

8. Black Beans and Peppers - A great vegan choice packed with flavor and protein.

By exploring different fillings, you can enjoy a new flavor every time you make empanadas. But if you are just starting out, stick with the chicken empanadas recipe first—it's easy, tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser.