Description
These Baked Chicken Empanadas are the ultimate snack or meal, offering a crispy golden exterior filled with a flavorful combination of seasoned shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, cheddar cheese, and a touch of cilantro. Perfect for any occasion, these empanadas are baked to perfection, making them a lighter yet satisfying alternative to fried versions. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an irresistible treat that will please your guests and family alike.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 pack refrigerated empanada dough discs (or 10–12 discs)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until well-coated with the spices. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and cilantro.
- Lay the empanada dough discs on a clean surface and place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center of each.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and seal with a fork.
- Arrange the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
If you can’t find empanada dough, substitute with pie crust or homemade dough.
Add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more flavor.
Spice it up with jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Freeze uncooked empanadas for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin, Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10 empanadas
- Calories: 280 kcal
