where food was more than sustenance—it was love—I have fond memories of my grandmother crafting her famous empanadas. The aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Her secret wasn’t just in the ingredients but in how she brought people together through her creations. Now, I’m sharing her legacy with you, updated with a healthier twist that’s perfect for modern lifestyles. Ready to roll up your sleeves and get started? Let’s dive in.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Empanadas Recipe
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of making these delicious treats, let’s talk about why they deserve a spot in your recipe collection.
- Healthier Alternative : Unlike their deep-fried counterparts, baked empanadas use significantly less oil, making them lighter on the stomach and better for your overall health. Yet, they retain all the flavor and texture you crave.
- Perfect for Any Occasion : Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, these empanandas fit the bill. Serve them at parties, pack them for picnics, or enjoy them as a quick weeknight meal.
- Packed with Flavor : With aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano, paired with juicy shredded chicken and fresh herbs, each bite bursts with taste.
What’s more, this baked chicken empanadas recipe offers flexibility—you can customize it to suit dietary preferences or experiment with new flavors. From gluten-free dough to dairy-free cheese alternatives, there’s room for everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Chicken Empanadas
Now that you’re convinced, let’s gather everything you need to whip up these mouthwatering delights. Below is a detailed list of ingredients broken down into categories for easy reference.
Table: Ingredients List
Key Notes on Ingredients:
- Store-Bought vs Homemade Dough : If you’re short on time, store-bought pie crusts are a lifesaver. However, if you want to take things up a notch, try making your own dough—it’s surprisingly simple and yields fantastic results.
- Substitutions : Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. For instance, replace chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add jalapeños for extra heat or omit spices for milder palates.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Baked Chicken Empanadas
Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps to create your very own batch of baked chicken empanadas. Don’t worry; we’ll walk you through every stage, from prepping the filling to pulling those golden beauties out of the oven.
Preparing the Filling
The first step is creating the flavorful base that will elevate your empanadas. Here’s how:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in your cooked shredded chicken along with the spices—cumin, smoked paprika, oregano—and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
- Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the mixture and tossing in some chopped cilantro. Allow the filling to cool completely before moving on to the next step.
Assembling the Empanadas
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the empanadas.
- Roll out your dough (store-bought or homemade) and cut it into circles using a bowl or cookie cutter. Aim for circles about 5 inches in diameter.
- Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each circle, leaving space around the edges. If desired, sprinkle a bit of grated cheese over the filling.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly together. Use a fork to crimp and seal the edges, ensuring no leaks occur during baking.
- Place the assembled empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
Baking the Empanadas
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the empanadas on the baking sheet with enough space between each one to allow for even cooking. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the pastries turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid over-browning.