Appetizers & Party
Chicken Empanadas
A well-seasoned chicken and vegetable filling gets tucked into rounds of empanada dough (store-bought discs make this easy) and baked until golden and flaky. These make a great party appetizer, portable snack, or fun make-ahead dinner.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Flaky pastry with a savory, well-seasoned filling
- Baked, not fried, for easier cleanup
- Great made ahead and frozen for later
- Perfect party finger food or portable lunch
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and bell pepper and cook 2 minutes more.
- Stir in the chicken, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until well combined and heated through. Stir in the olives if using.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Spoon about 2 tbsp of filling onto the center of each empanada disc. Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape and crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
- Arrange the empanadas on the baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until deep golden brown.
Tips for success
- Let the filling cool slightly before assembling so it doesn't melt or tear the dough discs.
- Crimp the edges firmly and completely — a poor seal is the main reason filling leaks out during baking.
- These freeze very well unbaked; freeze on a tray until solid, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Store-bought empanada or pastry discs (found in the frozen section of many grocery stores) save significant time over homemade dough.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find empanada dough discs?
Many grocery stores carry frozen empanada or pastry discs (often labeled 'discos') in the international or frozen foods section; puff pastry cut into circles also works in a pinch.
Can I fry empanadas instead of baking?
Yes, fry in about 1-2 inches of oil at 350°F for 3-4 minutes per side until golden, though baking is simpler and less messy.
Can I freeze chicken empanadas?
Yes, freeze them unbaked on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag; bake straight from frozen, adding 5-8 extra minutes.
What dipping sauce goes well with chicken empanadas?
A simple chimichurri, salsa, or garlic aioli all pair nicely.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 328 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Sodium | 460mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
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