Name: Easy Chicken Empanadas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Empanada dough discs; Oil for frying

why make this recipe

Easy Chicken Empanadas are a delightful way to enjoy a meal that is both tasty and simple to prepare. These little pockets of goodness are filled with shredded chicken and spices, making them a hit with everyone. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, they can be made quickly and are great for sharing.

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how to make Easy Chicken Empanadas

Ingredients :

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Empanada dough discs
Oil for frying

Directions :

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
Add shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined and heated through.
Take an empanada dough disc and place a spoonful of the filling in the center.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Fry empanadas until golden brown on both sides.
Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

how to serve Easy Chicken Empanadas

Serve Easy Chicken Empanadas hot, straight out of the frying pan. They pair well with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

how to store Easy Chicken Empanadas

If you have leftover empanadas, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or in a frying pan until heated through.

tips to make Easy Chicken Empanadas

Ensure the edges of the empanada dough are sealed well to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro or jalapeños to the filling.
If you prefer baking, you can brush the empanadas with egg wash and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.

variation

You can vary the filling by using different proteins like beef, pork, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Adding cheese or veggies can also give your empanadas a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought empanada dough?
Yes! Store-bought empanada dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.

2. Can I freeze empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked empanadas. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. Fry or bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. How can I make the filling spicy?
To make the filling spicier, add more cumin, chili powder, or diced jalapeños to the mixture while cooking.