Name: Crispy Chicken Empanadas: 8 Irresistible Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken (shredded – breast, thighs or rotisserie); 1 cup sweet onion (chopped); 1 cup red bell pepper (chopped); ¼ cup jalapeno (chopped – more or less to taste); 1 tablespoon garlic (chopped); 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 cup Colby-Jack cheese; 8 6″ Empanada discs (thawed); 1 tablespoon lard (or vegetable shortening); cooking oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Empanadas are one of my go-to comfort foods, perfectly crisp on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. This foolproof recipe makes it easy to whip up these savory pastries using store-bought dough discs and a deliciously seasoned chicken filling. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these chicken empanadas are sure to impress. Let’s get started on making your new favorite dish!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Empanadas

These Chicken Empanadas are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore them:

Deliciously crispy texture that’s hard to resist.
Versatile filling options, including chicken turnovers and chicken pasties.
Quick prep time of just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Great for meal prep; freeze for later enjoyment.
Customizable spice level to suit your taste.
Perfect as appetizers or a main dish!

This recipe falls under the Latin American cuisine and is naturally Gluten Free.

Ingredients for Chicken Empanadas

Gather these items:

1 lb chicken (shredded – breast, thighs or rotisserie)
1 cup sweet onion (chopped)
1 cup red bell pepper (chopped)
¼ cup jalapeno (chopped – more or less to taste)
1 tablespoon garlic (chopped)
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup Colby-Jack cheese
8 6″ Empanada discs (thawed)
1 tablespoon lard (or vegetable shortening)
cooking oil (for frying)

How to Make Chicken Empanadas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the lard (or vegetable shortening) to the pan.
Step 2: Add the bell pepper, jalapeño, and onion to the heated pan. Mix together.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables until tender, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the garlic to the vegetables and cook until fragrant.
Step 5: Add the shredded chicken to the pan. Mix to combine.
Step 6: Add the cumin, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and tomato paste to the shredded chicken mixture. Stir to combine.
Step 7: Heat 2-3 inches of cooking oil to 375 degrees in a Dutch oven or large pan, deep enough to fully cover the empanadas.
Step 8: While the oil heats, continue to cook the chicken and vegetables for 5 minutes.
Step 9: Once done, use a slotted spoon or skimmer to remove the filling from the pan and spread it out on a lined baking sheet to cool for 5-10 minutes.
Step 10: Lay the empanada shells on a baking sheet or cutting board. Add about two tablespoons of Colby-Jack cheese to the shells.
Step 11: Using a slotted spoon, add 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture to the center of the shell. Fold the shell in half. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges together to seal it. Repeat until all the empanadas have been made.
Step 12: Before frying, make sure all empanadas are sealed well before placing them in the oil.
Step 13: Add 2-3 empanadas to the Dutch oven; do not overcrowd the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crunchy.
Step 14: Remove and set aside on a wire rack over a paper towel-lined baking sheet or plate and tent with aluminum foil.
Step 15: Repeat until all the chicken empanadas have been cooked.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Empanadas

Keep these in mind:

Ensure that the empanadas are well-sealed to avoid leaks during frying.
Experiment with different fillings for easy chicken empanada variations.
For a golden finish, brush the empanadas with an egg wash before frying.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Empanadas

These delicious pastries can be served in a variety of ways:

Pair with chicken empanada dipping sauces like salsa verde or guacamole.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Offer with a side of rice and beans for a hearty dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Empanadas

To store leftover chicken empanadas, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps them crispy and delicious, perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Empanadas

What is a chicken empanada?

A chicken empanada is a pastry filled with seasoned shredded chicken and other ingredients, baked or fried until golden brown. It’s a popular dish in many cultures, particularly in Latin America.

Can I make chicken empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator or freeze them before cooking. This makes for a quick meal later!

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken empanadas?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your dough is thawed properly, seal the edges well, and don’t overcrowd the frying pan. This allows even cooking and crispy results.

Variations of Chicken Empanadas You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to explore:

Try baked chicken empanadas for a healthier option.
Make chicken and cheese empanadas by adding your favorite cheese to the filling.
For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or other peppers.