Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Empanadas offer everything you could want in a dish—crispy, buttery dough, a rich and flavorful chicken filling, and just the right amount of spice to keep things exciting. They’re incredibly versatile, making them perfect for meal prep, serving at parties, or enjoying as a weeknight dinner. With the ability to freeze them for later use, they’re both convenient and delicious. Plus, they can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even cold, making them ideal for picnics or packed lunches.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 egg
¼ cup ice water
1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Filling:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
½ cup chicken broth
⅓ cup green olives, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)

directions

Make the Dough:
Start by preparing the dough so it has time to rest. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg, ice water, and vinegar together. Pour this mixture into the flour-butter mix and stir gently until the dough starts coming together. Knead the dough just until it forms, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps create a flakier crust.
Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, and salt. Let it cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the shredded chicken and pour in the chicken broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped green olives and fresh cilantro. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using in the empanadas.
Assemble the Empanadas:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick. Use a 4–6 inch round cutter or a bowl to cut circles from the dough.

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the dough over and press the edges with a fork to seal the empanada. Be careful not to overfill them, as this will make sealing difficult.
Bake:
Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the empanadas for a golden, glossy finish.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell irresistible at this point!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60–75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a flavorful vegetarian filling.
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
Cheese Addition: Incorporate shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend) into the filling for a cheesy empanada.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the dough, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Freezing: Empanadas freeze well, so you can freeze them before or after baking. For uncooked empanadas, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once frozen. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can substitute with store-bought empanada dough or pie crust. Just follow the instructions on the package for sealing and baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the empanadas ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake them later. Alternatively, you can freeze them before or after baking for a future meal.

What can I serve with chicken empanadas?

Serve them with a side salad, chimichurri sauce, or a simple dipping sauce like salsa or sour cream for added flavor.

How do I prevent the empanadas from bursting open?

Don’t overfill the empanadas, and be sure to press the edges firmly with a fork to ensure they stay sealed during baking.

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, ground chicken works just as well. Brown the meat first and then follow the rest of the filling instructions.

Can I bake these without an egg wash?

Yes, you can omit the egg wash if you prefer, though it helps to give the empanadas a shiny, golden finish.

What’s the best way to freeze empanadas?

To freeze uncooked empanadas, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen when ready to eat.

Can I fry the empanadas instead of baking?

Yes, you can fry them in oil until golden and crispy, but be sure to seal the edges well to avoid the filling spilling out.

How can I make the empanada dough more flavorful?

Add a teaspoon of paprika, garlic powder, or herbs like oregano or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.

Can I use other proteins for the filling?

Yes, ground beef, pork, or even turkey can be used in place of chicken. You can also mix the meats for a more complex flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Empanadas are a perfect comfort food, combining flaky dough and savory, spiced chicken filling. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering with friends, they are sure to be a hit. These empanadas can be customized to suit a variety of tastes, and their versatility makes them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Enjoy the magic of homemade empanadas and bring a little bit of tradition to your table!