Description
Quick and Easy Chicken Empanadas: Crispy, flaky, and irresistibly delicious! These golden pockets of joy are packed with savory shredded chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or meal prep—ready in under 45 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (14 oz) pre-made empanada dough discs
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese, chopped olives, or jalapeños for extra kick
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions, bell pepper, and garlic until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Lay empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Spoon 1-2 tbsp of chicken filling onto the center of each disc. Fold dough over to create a half-moon shape, then crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg with 1 tbsp water and brush over empanadas for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Let empanadas cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with chimichurri, salsa, or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- Shortcut: Use store-bought dough to save time, or make your own if preferred.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lime juice or chopped cilantro to the filling.
- Crispy Secret: Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives that perfect golden crunch!
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked empanadas for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: quick chicken empanadas, easy empanada recipe, baked empanadas, chicken hand pies, Latin American recipes, party appetizers, meal prep recipes