Easy Homemade Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are savory pastry pockets filled with delicious ingredients, and the Chicken Empanadas Recipe is one of the most beloved varieties worldwide. With origins in Spanish and Latin American cuisine, empanadas have become a global comfort food due to their flaky crust and endless filling possibilities.

This recipe features seasoned, shredded chicken combined with sautéed vegetables and spices, all wrapped in golden, buttery dough. Whether you’re planning a dinner, a party, or a snack on the go, these empanadas are perfect. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like heaven!

In this guide, you’ll get a comprehensive breakdown from tools needed to step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, variations, and more.

Get ready to create irresistible, golden-brown empanadas that will wow your family and friends!

🍳 Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare chicken empanadas efficiently, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls (various sizes)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin
• Empanada press (optional)
• Pastry brush
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Fork (for sealing edges)
• Knife or dough cutter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor (if making dough from scratch)

🧂 What Do You Need to Prepare Chicken Empanadas?

Ingredients for the Dough (if homemade):

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold water (add more if needed)
• 1 tbsp vinegar

Ingredients for the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (red or green)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced (optional for added flavor)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Dough rounds (store-bought or homemade)

📝 How to Make Easy Chicken Empanadas Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a food processor, combine flour and salt. Add butter and pulse until crumbly. Add egg, vinegar, and cold water gradually. Mix until dough forms. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and bell peppers; cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, spices, and shredded chicken. Mix well and simmer for 5–7 minutes. Turn off heat and add cilantro or parsley and olives. Let the filling cool.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4–5 inch circles using a cutter or bowl.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Empanadas

Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork or use an empanada press. Brush with beaten egg.

Step 5: Bake or Fry

To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place empanadas on a parchment-lined tray. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
To fry: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry empanadas until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

🌀 Variations

Empanadas are wonderfully versatile. Try these variations to add new flavors or adapt to dietary needs:

• Cheesy Chicken Empanadas: Add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or cream cheese to the filling for a creamier texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.
• Veggie Boost: Include corn, spinach, or black beans for added nutrition and texture.
• BBQ Chicken Empanadas: Replace tomato sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
• Buffalo Chicken: Use buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese for a modern, bold variation.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a small amount of chopped dried fruit like raisins or apricots for a traditional Latin-American touch.

For vegetarians, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, potatoes, or a tofu mix. The dough also accommodates gluten-free flour if needed.

🧾 Cooking Note

The beauty of this chicken empanadas recipe is that it adapts well to both baked and fried methods. Baking provides a healthier, less oily result, with a golden, crisp exterior. Frying, on the other hand, gives a rich, crunchy texture that’s hard to beat.

Ensure your dough is chilled and not over-kneaded to maintain flakiness. The filling should be cooled before assembly to prevent soggy dough. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works beautifully. You can also prepare both the filling and dough a day ahead for a faster cooking day.

Store uncooked empanadas in the freezer for quick snacks or appetizers later. They can be frozen raw and then baked or fried straight from the freezer—just add 5 extra minutes of baking time.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Chicken empanadas shine on their own but pair beautifully with simple sides and dips. Serve with:

• Chimichurri sauce for a tangy herbal contrast
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lime
• Salsa or guacamole for a Mexican twist
• A simple green salad or coleslaw for freshness
• Rice and beans to turn the empanadas into a hearty meal

They make excellent party appetizers, lunchbox additions, or dinner entrees. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

💡 Helpful Tips

• Keep your dough cold to ensure a flaky crust. If it warms up, chill it again before rolling.
• Avoid overfilling. Too much filling can break the dough and leak during baking or frying.
• Use a fork or crimper to seal the edges tightly. You can even brush a little water around the edge before sealing.
• Let the filling cool. Hot filling will steam inside and make the dough soggy.
• For uniform empanadas, use a round cutter or small bowl to shape dough circles.
• Egg wash adds a beautiful golden sheen—don’t skip it!
• Double the batch and freeze extras for future meals. They store well and bake from frozen.
• Label frozen empanadas with date and filling type to keep track.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or paprika on top before baking for an extra gourmet touch.

⭐ Tips for the Best Chicken Empanadas

The best chicken empanadas come down to a few essential practices:

• Use flavorful, well-seasoned chicken. Even store-bought rotisserie can shine with the right spices.
• Cook off excess liquid in the filling to avoid sogginess.
• Seal tightly to prevent leaks.
• Bake on parchment paper to avoid sticking and achieve even browning.
• Let them rest a few minutes after baking for better structure and taste.

Taste the filling before assembly this is your chance to adjust seasoning and customize to your liking!

⏱️ Timing Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Empanada Approximate)

Calories: 220
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 340mg

❓ FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, empanada dough discs or pie crust work well in a pinch.

Can I freeze chicken empanadas?
Absolutely. Freeze them raw or cooked in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What chicken is best for empanadas?
Shredded chicken breast or thigh—cooked, seasoned, and cooled—is perfect.

Can I air fry them?
Yes, at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until heated through.

🏁 Conclusion

This Chicken Empanadas Recipe delivers everything you could want: flaky crust, savory chicken filling, and endless customization. It’s simple, satisfying, and freezer-friendly ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Follow this guide, and you’ll master the art of empanadas in no time.

Whether baked or fried, classic or with a twist, these empanadas will become a staple in your home.

Enjoy the process, make it your own, and most importantly savor every bite!