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Baked Chicken Empanadas with Latin Soul

Baked Chicken Empanadas with Latin Soul for Cozy Nights

Try these Baked Chicken Empanadas with Latin Soul—flaky pastry filled with savory chicken, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 empanadas
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Latin
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute up to half for whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for both the dough and filling.
  • 1 cup Cold Butter (diced) Ensure it’s cold to prevent melting.
  • 1 large Egg (for dough and wash) Reserve one for brushing on the empanadas.
  • 6-8 tablespoons Cold Water Use chilled water for the best results.
  • 1 tablespoon White Vinegar Tenderizes the dough.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken Perfect for using up leftover chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds flavor to the filling.
  • 1 medium Onion (chopped)
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Essential for any savory filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust according to taste preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adjust according to taste preferences.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Adjust according to taste preferences.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential seasoning for the filling.
  • ½ cup Tomato Sauce Enhances tanginess.
  • optional Chopped Green Olives Introduce a unique flavor and extra texture.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • skillet
  • Rolling Pin
  • Round cutter
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, vinegar, and cold water. Gradually stir this mixture into the flour until just combined. Knead gently, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Make the Filling
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano; cook for 1 more minute. Stir in shredded chicken and tomato sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper. Allow the filling to cool completely.
Shape the Empanadas
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut circles, approximately 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of filling onto each circle, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Seal edges using a fork.
Bake the Empanadas
  1. Transfer the filled empanadas to the baking sheet. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling bubbles. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1empanadaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Allow filling to cool completely before assembling to prevent soggy dough. Roll dough evenly for consistent baking. Crimp edges well to prevent leaking. Use cold ingredients for flakiness. Adjust spices as desired. For extra crispy bottoms, place on a wire rack while baking.

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