Easy (Yet Awesome) Chicken Empanadas

Jun 05, 2023June 5, 20230 0
Easy (Yet Awesome) Chicken Empanadas
in Appetizer

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 1/2 - 2 cups cooked chicken ( I like to shred a rotisserie chicken )
1 cup Mexican blend cheese , shredded
1 can green chilies , chopped ( I use Old El Paso )
1 can black beans , drained and rinsed well
1 small onion , chopped
2 -3 garlic cloves , chopped ( can use more or less depending on your liking )
1/4 cup vegetable oil ( should just coat the bottom of the pan )
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili flakes ( can adjust to your liking )
salt ( to taste )
pepper ( to taste )
1/4 cup chicken stock
3 pie crusts , prepared ( I use the Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts )
3 egg yolks , beaten
1 -2 teaspoon chili powder

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
420
Sugar
0g
Fat
32g
Empanadas are a popular dish in various South American countries. They are pastries usually filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then baked or fried. This recipe takes a shortcut by using store-bought pie crusts and shredded chicken but the result is still a delicious, crispy and cheesy empanada. You can add or subtract your favorite ingredients as per your preference to make it more healthy or more indulgent. These empanadas are a perfect snack for game day, potlucks or any gatherings. They are easy to make and everyone will love them.

Instructions

1.In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, Mexican blend cheese, chopped green chilies, black beans, onion, garlic, vegetable oil, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2.Pour chicken stock into the bowl and mix thoroughly to combine.
3.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
4.Lay out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and use a cookie cutter to cut as many circles out of it as possible.
5.Place a spoonful of chicken mixture in the center of each circle.
6.Brush the edges of the circle with egg yolk.
7.Fold over one side of the empanada to meet the other side.
8.Press the edges together and use a fork to crimp the edges.
9.Poke a few vent holes on top of each empanada to let the steam escape.
10.Mix chili powder with the remaining egg yolk and brush the tops of each empanada with this mixture.
11.Bake for around 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.

PROS

These empanadas are easy to make and have a delicious taste.

They are perfect for a party or as a snack for any time of day.

They can be customized with different fillings according to your preferences.

CONS

These empanadas are high in calories and fat due to the use of pie crusts and cheese.
They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The chicken in this recipe provides a good source of protein while the use of spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
The fiber content of black beans helps in reducing cholesterol levels and facilitating digestion while the use of green chilies helps in boosting immunity.

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