In the world of comfort food, few dishes can match the sheer joy of biting into a crispy chicken empanada. Picture this: a golden-brown pastry shell that shatters at the slightest touch, revealing a warm, spiced chicken filling that dances on your taste buds. Puff pastry appetizer bites The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your stomach rumble with anticipation. It’s like a culinary hug that wraps you in its delicious warmth.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where my grandmother would whip up these delightful pockets of goodness every Sunday. The whole house would fill with laughter and the savory scent of spices as we gathered around to enjoy her creations. Crispy black bean flautas These crispy chicken empanadas were the star of every family gathering, and I’ve carried that love for them into my own kitchen. Trust me; there’s no better time than now to make these for your next party or cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken empanadas are easy to prepare and perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Their flavor profile combines savory chicken with rich spices that create an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they make any meal feel special.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with different fillings based on your cravings or what’s in your fridge.
Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Empanadas
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 2 cups of shredded chicken is perfect; adjust based on how many empanadas you want to make.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop it to release its flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aroma and zest; use about three cloves, minced.
- Cumin: This spice lends an earthy flavor that’s essential for authentic taste; use one teaspoon.
- Paprika: Adds smokiness; one teaspoon will do the trick.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning basic; adjust according to taste.
- Empanada Dough Discs: Store-bought is perfectly fine if you’re short on time; about a dozen should suffice.
- Oil for Frying: Vegetable oil works best for frying; ensure you have enough for deep frying.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Empanadas
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Start by cooking your chicken breasts in boiling water until fully cooked—about 15-20 minutes should do it. Once done, shred them using two forks while they are still warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and toss in your chopped onions. Sauté them until translucent—about five minutes—then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken into the skillet along with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until evenly coated and heated through—this should only take about three minutes.
Step 4: Fill Your Empanadas
Take one dough disc at a time and spoon about two tablespoons of your chicken mixture onto one half. Fold over the other half to create a pocket and press down the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
Step 5: Heat Up the Oil
In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F or175°C).
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place several empanadas in the hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry each side for about three minutes or until golden brown. Remove them from oil and let drain on paper towels.
Transfer to plates and serve warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping—the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy your crispy chicken empanadas with friends or family—you might even want to start a tradition!
You Must Know
- Crispy Chicken Empanadas are not just a treat; they bring joy to every gathering.
- With a crispy exterior and savory filling, they easily become the star of any meal.
- These empanadas can be customized and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your filling first, allowing it to cool while you whip up the dough. Roll out the dough, fill it with your chicken mixture, then seal and fry or bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like beef or veggies for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with spices such as cumin or smoked paprika to give your empanadas a unique kick, making them truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly crispy empanadas, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying.
- Don’t overfill them to prevent bursting during cooking.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces for added flavor excitement!
I remember the first time I made Crispy Chicken Empanadas for a family gathering. My cousin declared them “life-changing,” which I’m pretty sure meant he’d rather eat my empanadas than his own cooking ever again!
FAQs:
What are Crispy Chicken Empanadas?
Crispy Chicken Empanadas are delightful pastries filled with seasoned chicken, cheese, and spices, wrapped in a flaky dough. These empanadas can be baked or fried to achieve a perfect crispy texture. They make an excellent appetizer or snack and are popular in various cuisines around the world. Kale dip for empanadas The combination of savory chicken and crispy exterior creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone loves.
How do I make the dough for Crispy Chicken Empanadas?
To make the dough for Crispy Chicken Empanadas, combine flour, salt, and butter in a bowl until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms. Knead it briefly until smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps to relax the gluten and ensures a tender yet crispy finish once baked or fried.
Can I freeze Crispy Chicken Empanadas?
Yes, you can freeze Crispy Chicken Empanadas for later enjoyment. After assembling them, arrange the empanadas on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time for the best results.
What sauces pair well with Crispy Chicken Empanadas?
Crispy Chicken Empanadas pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces such as salsa verde, guacamole, or spicy aioli. These sauces enhance the flavors of the empanadas and provide an extra layer of taste. You can even serve them with a tangy ranch dressing for a creamy contrast that complements the crispy texture perfectly.
Conclusion for Crispy Chicken Empanadas:
In summary, Crispy Chicken Empanadas are a delicious option for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or snack. With their flaky crust and flavorful chicken filling, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Sweet potato tacos pairing Making your own is easy with just a few simple ingredients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings or dipping sauces to suit your taste! Enjoy these delightful treats at your next gathering!
Crispy Chicken Empanadas
Crispy chicken empanadas are a delightful fusion of flaky pastry and savory chicken filling, seasoned to perfection. These handheld treats are perfect for any gathering, offering warmth and flavor in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare and customize, these empanadas embody the comfort of homemade goodness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 empanada dough discs (store-bought)
- Oil for frying (enough for deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: Cook chicken in boiling water until fully cooked (15-20 minutes). Shred with forks while warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and heat through (about 3 minutes).
- Fill Empanadas: Spoon 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one half of a dough disc. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Until Golden: Fry each empanada for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 empanada
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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