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Chicken Empanadas

Flaky pastries filled with a savory chicken and vegetable mixture, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 empanadas
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup cold water
  • 1 lb cooked chicken shredded
  • 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Non-stick spray or parchment paper
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt in a mixing bowl, then cut in 1/2 cup chilled, cubed unsalted butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add 1/4 cup cold water and mix until dough just comes together; do not overwork.
  3. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm the butter.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté 1/2 cup finely chopped onion and 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes.
  5. In a bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with 1 lb shredded cooked chicken, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper and mix well.
  6. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness using a rolling pin.
  7. Cut the dough into 4-5 inch circles using a knife or pizza cutter, then place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
  8. Fold each circle in half to form a half-moon, press edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative seal.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place empanadas on the sheet, brush tops with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Empanadas can be made ahead and frozen uncooked, then baked directly from frozen. Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.