This chicken empanada recipe is perfect if you love crispy snacks with a soft, juicy filling. The outside is golden and flaky, while the inside is packed with seasoned chicken that tastes amazing in every bite.
I still remember the first time I made these at home. The filling was delicious, but the crust turned out too hard. Later, I realized I had overmixed the dough and didn’t use cold butter. After a few tries, I finally got that perfect flaky pastry and now I’m sharing all those simple tips with you.
If you enjoy classic comfort food, you might also love this city chicken recipe.
Chicken Empanada Recipe History and Origin
Chicken Empanada Recipe History and Origin
Empanadas come from Spain, and the name comes from a word that means “to wrap in bread.” They were originally made as a simple meal that people could carry while traveling.
Over time, different countries made their own versions. In Latin America, they are often filled with spiced meat and sometimes fried. In other places, they are baked and have slightly different flavors. Today, empanadas are popular all over the world as snacks, appetizers, or even a full meal.
Chicken Empanada Recipe Dough – How to Get Flaky Pastry
A good chicken empanada recipe always starts with a soft and flaky dough.
The dough is the most important part of this recipe. A good dough should be soft, slightly crisp on the outside, and flaky when you bite into it.
What You Need for the Dough
- All-purpose flour
- Cold butter or shortening
- Salt
- Cold water
- Egg (optional)
Simple Tips for Better Dough
- Always use cold butter. This helps create that flaky pastry texture.
- Mix gently. If you knead too much, the dough will become hard.
- Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll.
- Keep everything cool while working.
When I first made the dough, I didn’t let it rest. The result? It kept shrinking while rolling and became tough after baking. That small step makes a big difference.
Ingredients for Chicken Empanada Recipe
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 150g cold butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- ½ cup cold water
For the Filling
The filling is the heart of this chicken empanada recipe.
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup olives (optional)
Chicken Empanada Recipe Filling – Juicy and Flavorful
The filling should be juicy and full of flavor, not dry.
- Heat oil in a skillet on medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for a few seconds.
- Add chopped tomato and let it cook down.
- Mix in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded chicken and stir well.
- Pour in chicken broth and cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
Once done, let the filling cool completely. If you use it while hot, it can damage the dough.
How to Make Chicken Empanada Recipe Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect chicken empanada recipe at home.
1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour until it looks crumbly. Add the egg and cold water, then gently mix to form a dough. Cover and let it rest.
2. Roll the Dough
Roll the dough on a floured surface. Cut it into round shapes using a bowl or cutter.
3. Add the Filling
Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold and Seal
Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
5. Bake or Fry
For Baking:
- Preheat oven to 180°C
- Place empanadas on a tray lined with parchment paper
- Brush with egg wash
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden
For Frying:
- Heat oil in a pan
- Fry until golden brown on both sides
Chicken Empanada Recipe Tips for a Golden Crust
- Brush with egg wash before baking for a shiny finish
- Don’t overcrowd the tray or pan
- Make sure the oil or oven is at the right temperature
- Seal the edges well so the filling doesn’t leak
Chicken Empanada Recipe Variations You Can Try
- Baked version: Lighter and healthier
- Fried version: Extra crispy and rich
- Spicy filling: Add green chilies or chili flakes
- Cheese option: Add mozzarella or cheddar
- Mini empanadas: Perfect for parties or snacks
For a softer and steamed option, you can also check out this chicken bao recipe.
Serving Ideas
These empanadas taste even better with a simple dipping sauce. You can try:
- Garlic mayo
- Spicy ketchup
- Yogurt dip
- Fresh herb sauce
They work great as appetizers, snacks, or even a light dinner.
Chicken Empanada Recipe Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months
How to Reheat
- Oven: 180°C for 10 minutes
- Air fryer: 5–7 minutes
- Avoid microwave if possible, as it makes them soft
Chicken Empanada Recipe FAQs
Can I use ready-made dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives a better taste and texture.
Why is my dough hard?
You may have overmixed it or used warm butter.
Can I prepare them in advance?
Yes, you can freeze them before cooking and bake later.
How do I avoid soggy empanadas?
Make sure the filling is not too watery and let it cool before using.
What type of chicken works best?
Shredded chicken from boiled or roasted chicken is perfect.
Final Words
Making this chicken empanada recipe at home is easier than it looks. Once you understand the dough and filling, everything comes together smoothly.
The combination of flaky pastry, juicy seasoned chicken, and a crispy golden crust makes these empanadas hard to resist. After making them once, you’ll feel more confident and may even start experimenting with your own flavors.
Once you try this chicken empanada recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.
