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Experience the comfort of homemade chicken empanadas - crispy, flaky pastries filled with seasoned shredded chicken and sautéed vegetables. This classic Latin American recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.
Developed through countless test batches, this empanada recipe consistently produces tender, flaky pastries that impress both casual family meals and special occasions.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Poached breast meat or rotisserie chicken
- Bell peppers: Red and green for flavor contrast
- Garlic: Fresh cloves provide best flavor
- Empanada discs: Ready-made dough for convenience
- Tomato paste: For rich umami flavor
- Cilantro: Fresh herbs enhance filling
- Bouillon: Intensifies chicken flavor
Preparation Method
- Prepare Filling:
- Sauté vegetables in oil until soft, add seasonings to bloom flavors, cool before using.
- Mix Filling:
- Combine warm shredded chicken with vegetables, adjust seasonings, let cool completely.
- Form Empanadas:
- Place filling on dough circles, leaving border, brush edges with egg.
- Seal Edges:
- Fold dough, press out air, crimp with fork tines, place on baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Brush with egg wash, cut vents, bake until golden, cool briefly.
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This recipe preserves traditional techniques passed down through generations of home cooks, ensuring authentic flavor in every bite.
Perfect Filling
Achieving ideal filling consistency requires careful moisture control. The mixture should hold together when pressed but remain moist. This prevents filling from becoming dry during baking while maintaining flaky pastry.
Advance Preparation
Prepare filling up to three days ahead. The flavors develop and meld overnight in the refrigerator, making assembly quick and convenient when needed.
Storage Tips
Flash-freeze assembled empanadas on lined baking sheets before transferring to storage containers. This method prevents sticking and allows easy portioning.
Recipe Variations
Enhance the basic filling with sweet corn kernels, diced potatoes for heartiness, or melting cheese. Each addition brings new dimension while maintaining traditional character.
Accompaniments
Serve alongside fresh chimichurri, cilantro-lime sauce, or spicy salsa. These classic condiments complement the savory filling perfectly.
Dough Management
Keep dough refrigerated until needed. Work with small batches to maintain proper temperature for easier handling and better results.
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These empanadas represent the perfect blend of technique and tradition. The combination of flaky crust and well-seasoned filling creates an impressive dish suitable for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I get these ready in advance?
- Sure! Assemble them the day before and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze and keep for up to three months.
- → Would pre-cooked rotisserie chicken work?
- Absolutely, tearing up rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and works perfectly.
- → What does the egg wash add to the empanadas?
- It helps lock the edges together and gives that gorgeous golden color when they bake.
- → Can I fry instead of baking them?
- Yes, fry in 350°F oil for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they're a crisp golden brown.
- → What’s best to pair with these empanadas?
- They go great with chimichurri, salsa, or even a dollop of sour cream for dipping.