empanada recipe chicken

Written ByEmma Smyth Updated on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best empanada recipe chicken

Oh, this empanada recipe with chicken is one of my favorite go-to dishes—simple enough to make in a hurry but packed with flavor that always makes everyone sit up and take notice. I started making these years ago when my kids were young, and I’d whip them up on lazy Sundays or after a long day of school when we needed something hearty but not too heavy. The chicken is tender and flavorful, wrapped in a crispy pastry that’s just the right amount of buttery and slightly sweet, and it holds up so well—whether we’re serving them at a potluck, packing them for a picnic, or just grabbing a bite from the fridge later. My kids love them because they’re like little handheld feasts, and my husband always says they’re the perfect balance of indulgent and satisfying without feeling too fancy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie meat, and the recipe is so forgiving that even if I mess up the pastry (which happens more than I’d like), they still taste good.

I love this recipe because it’s versatile—you can adjust the seasonings to taste, add veggies if you’re feeling extra, or even make it vegetarian if needed. It’s also a great way to sneak in some nutrition without making anyone feel like they’re eating “health food.” The chicken is leaner than you might think, especially if you use ground chicken or trim the fat, and the whole grain or whole wheat tortillas add fiber if you swap them out. My kids don’t even realize how much protein they’re getting until I remind them, and honestly? Neither do I. It’s a recipe that feels like a treat but isn’t one, and that’s why it’s always in my rotation—whether we’re having a family dinner or just grabbing something quick before bed. Plus, the kids love rolling their own, so it’s a fun little activity that gets them engaged in the kitchen without the stress. And the best part? They stay fresh for days, so you can prep ahead and never worry about leftovers going to waste.

Classic Chicken Empanadas

Classic Chicken Empanadas

4.8 from 1347 votes

A flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a savory tomato sauce, wrapped in crispy empanada dough. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Chicken Filling
  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thigh, diced
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste
For Finishing
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1 Prepare the dough: In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water with sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 10 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
  2. 2 Prepare the filling: In a pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add diced chicken, season with oregano, thyme, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Cook until chicken is fully cooked. Stir in chicken broth and tomato paste, simmer for 10 minutes. Let cool.
  3. 3 Prepare the sauce: In a pan, heat olive oil, sauté garlic, then add tomato sauce, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt.
  4. 4 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
  5. 5 Place a spoonful of chicken filling in each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, sealing edges with water or melted butter. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter.
  6. 6 Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  7. 7 Serve warm with the tomato sauce on top or alongside.
  8. undefined undefined
  9. undefined undefined
  10. undefined undefined
  11. undefined undefined
  12. undefined undefined
  13. undefined undefined
  14. undefined undefined
  15. undefined undefined
  16. undefined undefined
  17. undefined undefined
  18. undefined undefined
  19. undefined undefined
  20. undefined undefined
  21. undefined undefined
  22. undefined undefined
  23. undefined undefined
  24. undefined undefined
  25. undefined undefined
  26. undefined undefined
  27. undefined undefined
  28. undefined undefined
  29. undefined undefined
  30. undefined undefined
  31. undefined undefined
  32. undefined undefined
  33. undefined undefined
  34. undefined undefined
  35. undefined undefined
  36. undefined undefined
  37. undefined undefined
  38. undefined undefined
  39. undefined undefined
  40. undefined undefined
  41. undefined undefined
  42. undefined undefined
  43. undefined undefined
  44. undefined undefined
  45. undefined undefined
  46. undefined undefined
  47. undefined undefined
  48. undefined undefined
  49. undefined undefined
  50. undefined undefined
  51. undefined undefined
  52. undefined undefined
  53. undefined undefined
  54. undefined undefined
  55. undefined undefined
  56. undefined undefined
  57. undefined undefined
  58. undefined undefined
  59. undefined undefined
  60. undefined undefined
  61. undefined undefined
  62. undefined undefined
  63. undefined undefined
  64. undefined undefined
  65. undefined undefined
  66. undefined undefined
  67. undefined undefined
  68. undefined undefined
  69. undefined undefined
  70. undefined undefined
  71. undefined undefined
  72. undefined undefined
  73. undefined undefined
  74. undefined undefined
  75. undefined undefined
  76. undefined undefined
  77. undefined undefined
  78. undefined undefined
  79. undefined undefined
  80. undefined undefined
  81. undefined undefined
  82. undefined undefined
  83. undefined undefined
  84. undefined undefined
  85. undefined undefined
  86. undefined undefined
  87. undefined undefined
  88. undefined undefined
  89. undefined undefined
  90. undefined undefined
  91. undefined undefined
  92. undefined undefined
  93. undefined undefined
  94. undefined undefined
  95. undefined undefined
  96. undefined undefined
  97. undefined undefined
  98. undefined undefined
  99. undefined undefined
  100. undefined undefined
  101. undefined undefined
  102. undefined undefined
  103. undefined undefined
  104. undefined undefined
  105. undefined undefined
  106. undefined undefined
  107. undefined undefined
  108. undefined undefined
  109. undefined undefined
  110. undefined undefined
  111. undefined undefined
  112. undefined undefined
  113. undefined undefined
  114. undefined undefined
  115. undefined undefined

🔧Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Kitchen shears
  • Rolling pin
  • Oven
  • Pastry brush
  • Baking sheet
  • Cooking spray

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18.5💛Saturated Fat: 6.5❤️Cholesterol: 75🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 40🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 28

📝Notes

[object Object]

Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Empanadas Works

This chicken empanada recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make ahead of time while still tasting fresh when served. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a bigger gathering, these handheld bites are easy to prepare in batches and keep well, so you won’t be stuck scrambling last-minute. Plus, the flavors are bold enough to stand up to other dishes, making them the perfect crowd favorite for any occasion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Empanadas

What are the best ingredients to use for a juicy and flavorful chicken empanada filling?

The best ingredients for a juicy chicken empanada filling include boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, finely chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers (optional), fresh cilantro, a mix of cumin, paprika, oregano, and a touch of cayenne for heat. For extra moisture, use chicken broth or a little mayo mixed with spices. Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender.

How do I ensure the empanadas stay moist and don’t dry out?

To keep empanadas moist, use a small amount of water, chicken broth, or even a bit of mayonnaise mixed with spices in the filling. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature (around 375°F/190°C) and bake or fry the empanadas quickly to prevent drying. If using a deep-frying method, ensure the oil is hot but not smoking. For stuffed empanadas, consider stuffing them with a little extra liquid before sealing to help retain moisture.

Can I use pre-made empanada dough instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use pre-made empanada dough for convenience, but for the best texture, homemade dough (made with flour, water, salt, and sometimes yogurt or oil) is usually preferred. Pre-made doughs can vary in quality, so check for a soft, pliable texture. If you’re short on time, look for high-quality frozen empanada shells that are ready to bake or fry.

What’s the best way to seal the empanada dough without it breaking?

To seal empanadas properly, use a fork or your fingers to press the edges firmly against the filling while slightly overlapping them. For extra security, brush the edges with beaten egg or a bit of water to create a glue-like consistency. If making stuffed empanadas, tuck the dough tightly around the filling and trim any excess dough before sealing. A sharp knife can help cut clean edges if needed.

How do I adjust the spice level in the chicken empanada filling?

To adjust spice levels, start with mild spices like cumin and paprika, then add more chili powder, cayenne, or fresh jalapeños for heat. For a sweeter or smokier flavor, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika. If you prefer a less spicy filling, reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely. Taste as you go and adjust gradually—it’s easier to add more heat than to remove it!

Hi, I’m Emma, the creator of Tasty Chicken Recipes, where I share my favorite chicken dishes and simple recipes anyone can make at home. I love experimenting with flavors and helping fellow food lovers cook delicious chicken meals with ease. 🍗✨

Similar Posts