I’m excited to share my Ground Chicken Empanada recipe, a Latin-inspired comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes. These empanadas are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.

The filling is made with seasoned ground chicken, onions, and spices, wrapped in a tender, flaky dough. I use a simple recipe for the dough that requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.

To cook, simply bake or fry the empanadas until golden brown. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole, for a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for ground chicken empanada

Here’s everything you need to make these delicious Latin-style ground chicken empanadas.

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You can find most ingredients at your local grocery store. For authentic Latin flavors, look for spices at specialty stores like Whole Foods or Latin markets. Choose fresh, plump onions and high-quality spices for the best flavor. Consider buying chicken from local butchers or trusted brands for superior taste and texture.

If you can't find all-purpose flour, bread flour works as a substitute, though empanadas might be slightly chewier. For a spicier filling, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the onions. You can replace ground chicken with ground turkey or beef if you prefer. To make it vegan, use plant-based ground 'meat' and vegan butter.

Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat baked empanadas in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until crispy and hot.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Chicken Empanadas

Let me guide you through making these delicious empanadas that’ll become a family favorite in just 30 minutes.

🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Ground Chicken Filling

Start by cooking the 1 whole Onion and 3 cloves Garlic Cloves in a large skillet over medium heat until they’re softened and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the 1 lb Ground Chicken, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully browned and cooked through, which should take another 5-7 minutes.

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in 1 tsp Cumin, 0.5 tsp Paprika, 0.5 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a minute to allow the flavors to meld together. The filling should be aromatic and slightly spicy. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dough.

👨‍🍳 Step 2: Make the Empanada Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups All-Purpose Flour and 0.5 cup Butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add 0.25 cup Water and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. The dough should be slightly firm but not too dry. If needed, adjust the consistency with a bit more water or flour.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces for larger empanadas or 8 pieces for smaller ones, depending on your preference. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a disk shape using a rolling pin or your hands.

🥘 Step 3: Assemble and Cook the Empanadas

Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each dough disk. Brush the edges of the dough with a little water, then fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal the empanada, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the empanadas and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

🍽️ Step 4: Serve with Salsa or Guacamole

Once the empanadas are cooked, remove them from the skillet or oven and let them cool for a minute or two on a wire rack. Serve them warm with 1 cup Salsa or Guacamole on the side for dipping. The creamy or tangy accompaniment pairs perfectly with the savory empanadas, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Now that we have your attention, let’s dive into the ground chicken empanada recipe that’s about to become your new favorite dish! 🌟 These Latin-style empanadas are a perfect blend of comfort food and international flair, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry package. The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.

Preparing the Filling 🔪

The heart of these empanadas is the ground chicken filling, seasoned with a mix of spices and herbs that give it a rich, savory flavor. To make the filling, you’ll need to cook the ground chicken with some onions, garlic, and your choice of spices. We recommend using a blend that includes cumin, paprika, and a hint of chili powder for an extra kick.

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Assembling the Empanadas 🥘

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the empanadas. You’ll need empanada dough, which can be either homemade or store-bought. If you’re short on time, don’t worry – store-bought dough works perfectly fine. Simply roll out the dough, place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center, and fold the dough over to seal the empanada. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border.

💡 Pro tip: Make sure to seal the empanadas tightly to prevent the filling from escaping during baking. You can brush the edges with a little water or egg wash to help them stick together.

Tips & Variations for Perfect Ground Chicken Empanadas

These tried-and-true tips will help you make the best empanadas every time, with a few fun twists to keep things interesting.

Filling Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or chopped fresh cilantro to the chicken filling. You can also use different seasonings like chili powder or smoked paprika to change up the flavor profile. I love adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten up the filling.

Dough Handling Tip: To prevent the dough from becoming too sticky, keep your work surface lightly floured and make sure your hands are dry when handling the dough. If you find the dough too dry, a quick sprinkle of water will help it come together. 🔥

Cooking Options: While pan-frying gives a crispy exterior, you can also bake these empanadas for a healthier option. Simply brush them with a little egg wash before baking at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. For an extra crispy exterior, try broiling for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.