Mouthwatering Chicken Empanadas Your Family Will Love
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Carolina
The kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of chicken sizzling in spices was my first hint that something special was unfolding. As I prepped for a casual dinner, I found myself veering away from the usual stir-fry and instead whisked back to my roots those cozy family gatherings where hand-held food stole the show. Enter my Easy Baked Chicken Empanadas, a heartfelt nod to comfort food that s incredibly easy to whip up.
Packaged in a buttery, flaky crust, these empanadas encapsulate a savory blend of shredded chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic herbs that dance on your palate. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a delightful weeknight meal, they transform mundane dinners into festive occasions. Whether you re seeking a fun culinary project to share with loved ones or a speedy recipe to lift your spirits, these empanadas promise to satisfy cravings and bring a warm, homemade touch to your table. Let s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why are Chicken Empanadas a Must-Try?
Irresistible Taste: Each bite of these Chicken Empanadas is bursting with a savory blend of flavors, making them a delightful option for any meal.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, these hand-held treats are sure to impress.
Versatile Filling Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies, making them adaptable for everyone s taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time and freeze them for later, ensuring you always have something delicious on hand!
Chicken Empanadas Ingredients
For the Filling
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness and helps saut vegetables; feel free to use any neutral oil.
- Minced Onion Provides foundational flavor; shallots work as a great substitute.
- Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color; replace with any bell pepper or omit if less sweet is desired.
- Yellow or Orange Bell Pepper Enhances flavor and texture; green bell pepper can be used instead.
- Garlic Cloves Adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can be used in a pinch (1 clove = 1/8 tsp garlic powder).
- Freshly Minced Cilantro Imparts freshness; omit if you prefer a less herbaceous flavor.
- Shredded Chicken Breast Main protein in these chicken empanadas; shredded rotisserie or poached chicken work well.
- Chicken Bouillon Intensifies flavor; chicken broth can be used for a lighter taste.
- Tomato Paste Adds umami richness; substituting with tomato sauce may change consistency.
- Onion Powder Enhances seasoning; can be omitted if you re doubling the fresh onion.
- Garlic Powder Offers layered garlic flavor; you can increase or swap with fresh garlic.
- Kosher Salt Essential for flavor; adjust according to your taste.
For the Dough
- Empanada Dough Shells Forms the pastry; Goya brand is recommended, or make your own for a personal touch.
- Egg Used for the egg wash to achieve a golden crust; skip if vegan, replacing it with aquafaba.
Enjoy crafting these tasty Chicken Empanadas with this straightforward list of ingredients that make me alt and ease into the cooking process!
How to Make Chicken Empanadas
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the empanadas bake evenly and don t stick.
Saut Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and diced red bell peppers, saut ing them until softened (about 5 minutes), and watch those colors pop!
Add Aromatics: Toss in the minced garlic and freshly chopped cilantro; continue cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. The kitchen will smell wonderful; it s the scent of home!
Mix Filling: Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken bouillon, and tomato paste. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and 1 cup of water. Simmer for 5-8 minutes until most liquid is evaporated and the filling thickens slightly.
Prepare Dough Shells: Roll out your empanada dough shells into 6-inch rounds. Spoon about cup of the savory chicken filling onto one side of each shell don t overfill, or they won t seal properly!
Seal Empanadas: Brush the edges of each dough round with a bit of egg wash, fold over the filling, and then press down with a fork to seal tightly. This little step prevents any filling from escaping during baking.
Bake: Arrange the empanadas on your prepared baking sheet, brushing the tops with any remaining egg wash. Bake for 35 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Serve and Savor: Enjoy the empanadas hot, or let them cool completely and freeze for later enjoyment. There s nothing quite like a homemade treat ready to go!
Optional: Serve with guacamole or salsa for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Empanadas are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. To do this, simply saut your vegetables, mix in the chicken, and refrigerate after cooling. Additionally, you can assemble the empanadas and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For even longer storage, freeze uncooked empanadas in a single layer for up to 6 months. When it s time to bake, you ll have restaurant-quality Chicken Empanadas ready with minimal effort! Enjoy stepping into your kitchen and savoring homemade goodness.
Chicken Empanadas Variations
Feel free to personalize your Chicken Empanadas and make them truly yours with these tempting twists!
Beef Empanadas: Swap shredded chicken for seasoned ground beef for a hearty alternative. The flavors meld perfectly for a new favorite!
Vegetarian Delight: Use a colorful mix of saut ed mushrooms, zucchini, and corn as a filling. This veggie-loaded version is both satisfying and nutritious.
Cheesy Goodness: Add a handful of your favorite cheese, like Monterey Jack or queso fresco, to the filling for a melty surprise inside. A cheesy empanada will have everyone coming back for more!
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalape os or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level in the filling. Spice lovers will rejoice in this zesty variation!
Herbed Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil in place of cilantro for a fresh flavor twist. Different herbs bring a whole new vibe!
Sundried Tomato Flavor: Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes for a burst of rich, tangy goodness. This adds a Mediterranean flair to your empanadas!
Nutritional Boost: Incorporate some cooked quinoa or brown rice into the filling for a nutrient-packed option. It s a clever way to sneak in extra wholesomeness.
Smoky Chipotle: Blend in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist. This will give your empanadas a flavor profile that excites the senses!
What to Serve with Chicken Empanadas?
Experience a feast for your senses as you create a delightful meal around these hand-held treasures.
Guacamole: The creamy and zesty avocado dip perfectly complements the savory filling, enhancing each bite with a smooth texture.
Fresh Salsa: Burst of fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a vibrant kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich empanadas.
Chimichurri Sauce: This herbaceous sauce adds a tangy flair, bringing brightness and extra flavor to every mouthful of your chicken empanadas.
Crispy Side Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the empanadas, offering a refreshing crunch.
Spanish Rice: A subtle spiced rice serves as a hearty base, soaking up any juices and pairing perfectly with the flavors of the empanadas.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn adds a pop of sweetness and a fun, colorful element to your dinner plate.
Tangy Pickled Vegetables: These add a crunchy, tart contrast that brings a unique brightness alongside each savory bite.
Fizzy Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness, making every bite feel light and invigorating.
Pair these delightful options with your chicken empanadas for a cozy, memorable meal that will surely please everyone at your table!
Storage Tips for Chicken Empanadas
Fridge: Store cooked Chicken Empanadas in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and ready for quick snacking.
Freezer: Uncooked Chicken Empanadas can be frozen on a baking sheet for up to 6 months. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for easier storage.
Reheating: To reheat, simply bake them at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and golden.
Cooling: Allow baked Chicken Empanadas to cool completely before freezing to preserve their texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Chicken Empanadas
- Proper Filling Consistency: Ensure the filling isn t too wet to prevent soggy dough. If necessary, squeeze out excess liquid before filling the shells.
- Sealing Technique: Use a fork to properly seal the empanadas. This prevents them from bursting open during baking, ensuring a perfect result with your Chicken Empanadas.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding spices like cumin or oregano to the filling. This enhances the overall taste profile.
- Make Ahead: Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer them to a bag for up to 6 months. They re perfect for quick meals anytime!
- Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious not to overfill the empanadas; this can make sealing difficult and might lead to leaking during baking.
Chicken Empanadas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables like bell peppers, look for ones that are firm with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid peppers that have dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh onions should feel heavy and have a papery skin. For ideal flavor and texture, vibrant colors indicate freshness and ripeness.
How should I store leftover Chicken Empanadas?
Very simply! Place cooked Chicken Empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They ll maintain their goodness for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the empanadas. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the freezer to preserve their texture.
Can I freeze uncooked Chicken Empanadas, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze uncooked Chicken Empanadas, first arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are not touching to avoid sticking together. Freeze them for about 2 hours or until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 6 months. Whenever you re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if my empanada filling is too wet?
Great question! If your filling turns out too wet, the dough may become soggy during baking. To fix this, take a fine mesh sieve and press the filling through it to drain any excess liquid. You can also add a bit of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to the mixture to absorb the moisture and achieve that perfect texture you re looking for.
Are Chicken Empanadas suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, they can be! Always be cautious and check the specific brands of ingredients you use. For those with gluten allergies, look for gluten-free empanada dough or make your own. If you re accommodating someone with dietary restrictions, consider using cooked shredded vegetables or beans in place of the chicken for a tasty vegetarian alternative.
How can I make Chicken Empanadas vegan-friendly?
To turn your Chicken Empanadas into a vegan delight, swap out the shredded chicken for a filling of saut ed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas, and use vegan dough instead of traditional empanada shells. Instead of an egg wash, brush the tops with a bit of plant-based milk or aquafaba for that golden finish while baking!