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Authentic Homemade Empanadas with Savory Chicken Filling

Perfectly golden empanadas filled with a flavorful chicken mixture that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Spain. These hand-held pastries are the ultimate comfort food for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 497

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, finely diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 poblano peppers seeded and minced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 packages 14 oz each empanada dough discs (or refrigerated pie crusts as substitute)
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onions and poblano peppers. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Allow the filling to cool completely, at least 1 hour. For best results, refrigerate the filling for 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors develop.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Place the empanada dough discs on a lightly floured surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of filling onto the center of each disc, being careful not to overfill.
  7. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon and press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges decoratively or use the traditional repulgue technique by folding and twisting the edge.
  8. Transfer the empanadas to the prepared baking sheets. Brush each empanada with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 497kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 22gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 132mgSodium: 937mgFiber: 3g
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