These Chicken Empanadas bring together the perfect balance of flaky golden pastry and a flavorful spiced chicken filling. Baked to perfection, they deliver a crispy crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender, juicy, and satisfying. Each bite captures the warmth of Latin-inspired spices, making them ideal for family meals, parties, or just an afternoon craving.
What makes these empanadas truly special is their versatility – they can be enjoyed hot right out of the oven, prepared ahead for gatherings, or even frozen for a quick snack later. Pair them with a side of salsa, chimichurri, or a creamy dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor. These empanadas are more than just a dish – they’re comfort food that brings people together.
Full Recipe:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon chili powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade dough)
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in bell pepper and cook until slightly tender.
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Add shredded chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro.
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Roll out the pie crusts and cut into 4–5 inch circles. Place 2 tablespoons of filling onto each circle.
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Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal.
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Place empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and flaky. Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: ~280 kcal per empanada | Servings: 8 empanadas
The Story Behind Chicken Empanadas
Empanadas are more than just food—they are a cultural expression found across Latin America, Spain, and even parts of Asia and the Philippines. The word “empanada” comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which means “to wrap in bread.” Traditionally, empanadas are small pastry pockets filled with savory or sweet ingredients and baked or fried until golden brown. Among the many versions that exist, Chicken Empanadas stand out for their comforting flavors and crowd-pleasing appeal.
They have roots in Spanish cuisine but evolved dramatically as they spread to Latin American countries. Each region has its own interpretation—some with spicy chilies, others with olives, raisins, or potatoes. In Argentina, they’re often baked, while in the Caribbean, frying is the preferred method. The chicken filling, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, is a delicious reminder of how this dish brings cultures and families together at the dinner table.
Why Chicken Empanadas Are So Popular
The popularity of chicken empanadas comes from their versatility and portability. They can be served as a snack, appetizer, main dish, or party food. Because they’re neatly enclosed in pastry, they are easy to pack, carry, and eat without utensils. This makes them an excellent choice for school lunches, picnics, or on-the-go meals.
Another reason they’re loved by so many is the balance of textures. The flaky crust gives you that irresistible crunch, while the filling remains moist, flavorful, and hearty. Unlike other meat fillings that may feel too heavy, chicken offers a lighter protein option that pairs beautifully with spices, vegetables, and fresh herbs.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
What makes chicken empanadas particularly delicious is the harmony of seasoning and texture. The filling usually includes sautéed onions, garlic, peppers, and shredded chicken, all enhanced with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. This creates a blend that is smoky, slightly spicy, and wonderfully savory. The fresh cilantro or parsley added at the end brings brightness, cutting through the richness of the pastry.
The pastry itself is another star of the dish. When baked, it turns golden and crisp, creating the perfect shell to hold the filling. The slight flakiness complements the juicy chicken mixture, making every bite satisfying without being overwhelming.
Cultural Variations of Empanadas
Though chicken empanadas are a classic, they are also a blank canvas for regional twists. In Argentina, for example, empanadas are commonly filled with chicken or beef, often flavored with green olives and hard-boiled eggs. In Mexico, spicier versions might include jalapeños or chipotle peppers for extra heat. The Philippines has its own style, sometimes incorporating sweet notes with raisins or slightly sweeter dough.
Across the Caribbean, you’ll find fried empanadas, which develop an extra crispy exterior. Some Puerto Rican and Dominican versions include sofrito, a blend of peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs, that makes the flavor even more robust. The diversity of empanadas is a testament to how a simple idea—meat wrapped in pastry—can be interpreted in endless ways while still maintaining its cultural identity.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Empanadas
While chicken empanadas are relatively straightforward to prepare, a few tips can elevate them:
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Use well-seasoned chicken: The filling should be flavorful enough to shine through the pastry. Taste and adjust spices before assembling.
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Don’t overfill: Too much filling can cause the empanadas to burst during baking. A couple of tablespoons per pastry circle is usually perfect.
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Seal properly: Press the edges with a fork or fold them in a decorative braid known as repulgue to prevent leaks.
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Egg wash for shine: Brushing the tops with beaten egg before baking ensures a glossy golden finish.
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Experiment with fillings: Add cheese, vegetables, or even a touch of spice to customize to your liking.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Chicken empanadas are delicious on their own, but pairing them with sauces and sides makes them even better. Classic dips include chimichurri, salsa verde, or a creamy aioli. A side salad with fresh greens balances the richness of the pastry, while rice and beans can turn empanadas into a complete meal.
For gatherings, serve them with a selection of dipping sauces so everyone can enjoy different flavor experiences. They also pair wonderfully with cold beverages—try a refreshing iced tea, a citrusy soda, or even a crisp lager. For wine lovers, a light white wine or a chilled rosé complements the savory filling beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits and Considerations
Chicken empanadas offer a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Chicken provides lean protein, which supports muscle health, while vegetables in the filling add fiber and vitamins. The pastry contributes carbohydrates for energy, though it can also increase the calorie count.
To make them lighter, you can bake instead of fry, use whole wheat pastry dough, or reduce the amount of oil in the filling. Another trick is to include more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, which enhance flavor and nutrition without adding too many calories.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
One of the best things about chicken empanadas is how well they store. They can be prepared in advance, frozen, and baked straight from the freezer. To freeze, assemble the empanadas without baking them, place them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake them for a few extra minutes until fully golden and cooked through.
Cooked empanadas can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. This makes them a convenient meal-prep option for busy households or for hosting gatherings without last-minute stress.
Why This Dish Belongs on Every Table
Chicken empanadas are the type of food that feels both rustic and elegant. They are simple enough to prepare on a weeknight yet special enough to serve at parties. Their universal appeal comes from their rich history, cultural versatility, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re making them as a snack for your kids, serving them at a festive holiday dinner, or enjoying them on a cozy night in, chicken empanadas never disappoint.
Conclusion
In the world of comfort food, chicken empanadas occupy a special place. They combine centuries-old tradition with modern adaptability, making them a dish that transcends borders and generations. With their flaky crust, seasoned filling, and endless variations, they represent everything we love about food: flavor, culture, and connection.
If you haven’t tried making chicken empanadas yet, now is the perfect time to bring this timeless classic into your kitchen. They are more than just a recipe—they are a way to share warmth, tradition, and flavor with the people you love.