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Deliciously baked chicken empanadas served with dipping sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Quick Chicken Empanadas Recipe for Busy Weeknights

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Quick Chicken Empanadas are the perfect meal solution for busy weeknights. These baked pastries are filled with savory chicken, vegetables, and spices, offering a delicious and convenient dinner option that saves time without compromising on flavor.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 empanadas 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or empanada discs
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken broth or water to moisten the mixture and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crusts or use pre-made empanada discs.
  4. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork.
  5. Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken filling.
  • You can use water or vegetable broth if you don’t have chicken broth.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like corn, peas, or black beans.
  • Assemble empanadas in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with cooked lentils or black beans.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Latin American
  • Diet: High Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 empanada
  • Calories: 210 Kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg