How to Make Perfect Homemade Chicken Empanadas

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Chicken empanadas are a delicious, portable snack loved for their crispy, golden crust and savory, juicy filling.
Whether you’re making them for a party, a picnic, or simply a special family dinner, homemade chicken empanadas are easier than you might think — and far more satisfying than store-bought versions.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect homemade chicken empanadas with a simple dough, flavorful filling, and foolproof techniques.

Why Chicken Empanadas Are a Must-Try

Chicken empanadas are:

  • Portable and easy to serve
  • Customizable with endless seasoning options
  • Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep
  • Crowd-pleasing and satisfying

Tip:
Homemade empanadas can be baked or fried, giving you flexibility based on your preference.

Ingredients for Chicken Empanadas

For the dough:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Unsalted butter or shortening
  • Salt
  • Cold water
  • Optional: Egg (for richer dough)

For the filling:

  • Cooked, shredded chicken (breast or thigh)
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Bell pepper, diced
  • Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
  • Cumin, paprika, and oregano
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Optional additions:

  • Chopped olives
  • Hard-boiled egg slices
  • Fresh cilantro

Tip:
Prepare the filling in advance to let the flavors meld and to make assembling easier.

Making the Empanada Dough

Step 1: Mix dry ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.

Step 2: Incorporate fat

  • Cut cold butter or shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Add water gradually

  • Stir in cold water a little at a time until a dough forms.

Step 4: Knead and chill

  • Knead the dough gently until smooth.
  • Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Tip:
Chilled dough is easier to roll out and helps create a flakier crust.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Step 1: Cook aromatics

  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add chicken and seasonings

  • Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Add a spoonful of tomato paste and cook for a few minutes until combined.

Step 3: Adjust texture

  • If needed, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the filling moist but not wet.

Step 4: Cool completely

  • Let the filling cool before assembling to prevent soggy dough.

Tip:
Taste your filling before using it to ensure it’s well-seasoned.

Assembling the Empanadas

Step 1: Roll out the dough

  • On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.

Step 2: Cut circles

  • Use a cutter or bowl to cut circles about 5 to 6 inches in diameter.

Step 3: Add filling

  • Place a generous spoonful of filling slightly off-center on each circle.
  • Add optional extras like olives or egg slices.

Step 4: Seal the empanadas

  • Brush the edges with water.
  • Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
  • Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

Tip:
Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking or frying.

Baking vs. Frying Empanadas

Baking:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place empanadas on a lined baking sheet.
  • Brush tops with egg wash for golden color.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Frying:

  • Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry empanadas in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
  • Drain on paper towels.

Tip:
Baked empanadas are lighter, while fried empanadas are extra crispy and rich.

Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Use Cold Dough:

  • Cold dough is easier to handle and produces a flakier crust.

Keep the Filling Moist but Not Wet:

  • Excess liquid will make the dough soggy and cause leaks.

Seal Carefully:

  • Make sure the edges are tightly sealed to avoid opening during baking or frying.

Chill Before Baking:

  • Chilling assembled empanadas for 15–30 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape.

Tip:
Use an egg wash (beaten egg with a little water) for beautiful golden color and shine.

Flavor Variations to Try

Chicken empanadas are endlessly customizable.

Ideas:

  • Add cream cheese for a creamy filling.
  • Spice it up with chopped jalapeños or chili powder.
  • Swap regular chicken for rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Try Caribbean seasoning blends for a tropical twist.

Tip:
Customize the herbs and spices based on your taste preferences.

How to Store and Reheat Empanadas

Storing:

  • Store baked empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze unbaked empanadas individually on a tray.
  • Transfer to freezer bags once solid.

Baking from frozen:

  • Bake frozen empanadas at 375°F (190°C) for about 30–35 minutes.

Reheating:

  • Reheat baked empanadas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until hot and crispy.

Tip:
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken empanadas with:

  • Salsa or chimichurri sauce
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Hot sauce
  • A simple green salad for a complete meal

Tip:
Empanadas are delicious both hot and at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics and parties.

Final Thoughts: Mastering Homemade Chicken Empanadas

With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can master the art of making chicken empanadas at home.
Whether baked or fried, the combination of buttery pastry and flavorful filling creates a snack or meal that’s deeply comforting and impressively delicious.

Experiment with fillings, seasoning blends, and cooking methods to find your personal favorite version.

Once you try homemade empanadas, they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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