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Chicken Empanadas

Chicken Empanadas

Chicken empanadas are delicious stuffed pastries that are perfect for appetizers or a hearty snack. This recipe features a savory chicken filling wrapped in a flaky crust, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or casual dining.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course appetizer/main course
Cuisine Latin American
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 rolling pin
  • 1 baking sheet
  • 1 parchment paper
  • 1 skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Chilled and cubed.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg beaten For egg wash.
  • ¼ cup cold water
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion Chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup frozen peas Thawed.
  • to taste salt
  • fresh cilantro Optional, for garnish.

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Add the chicken to the skillet, season with cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • Once cooled, shred the chicken into smaller pieces and mix in the thawed peas.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until about ⅛ inch thick.
  • Cut out circles using a large cookie cutter or a glass (about 4-5 inches in diameter).
  • Place a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal.
  • Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra seal. Arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the empanadas are golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

You can customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as bell peppers or corn.
Empanadas can be frozen before baking. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.