Mexican Chicken Empanadas

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If you’re searching for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, look no further than these Mexican Chicken Empanadas. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a mouthwatering mixture of seasoned chicken, black beans, and sharp cheddar cheese, all enveloped in buttery puff pastry. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these empanadas are sure to become a favorite in your household. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Mexican Chicken Empanadas are not only a delight to eat, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling to suit your family’s tastes or make them ahead of time for a quick meal. The combination of flavors from the taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously satisfying bite in every empanada. Plus, using puff pastry allows for a light and flaky crust that elevates the traditional empanada experience.

Ingredients

• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• ½ cup red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet)
• ½ cup mild red enchilada sauce
• 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
• 1 ⅓ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

How To Make Mexican Chicken Empanadas

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the cooked chicken, black beans, taco seasoning, and mild red enchilada sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

While the filling is cooling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter. You can re-roll the scraps to make additional circles if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Take one circle of puff pastry and place about a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center. Sprinkle a bit of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the filling. Fold the pastry over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges or press them down with your fingers for a decorative touch.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. This will give your empanadas a beautiful golden sheen. Brush the tops of the empanadas generously with the egg wash.

Step 5: Bake

Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your empanadas are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own, or you can serve them with additional enchilada sauce or salsa for dipping. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Mexico in every bite!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro or green onions to the filling mixture.
• Make sure the filling is cooled before assembling to avoid soggy pastry.
• If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use pie dough or make your own empanada dough.
• Freeze unbaked empanadas for a quick meal later. Just add extra baking time when cooking them from frozen.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different flavor.
• Use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
• Add other vegetables like corn or zucchini to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make them vegetarian by substituting the chicken with more beans or lentils.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your empanadas have cooled completely, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked empanadas for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?

Yes! Store-bought shredded chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to choose a flavor that complements your seasoning.

What can I serve with empanadas?

Empanadas pair well with a variety of dips, including salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. A side salad can also make a great accompaniment.

Can I make these empanadas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the empanadas and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before baking, or freeze them for later.

Are Mexican Chicken Empanadas healthy?

These empanadas can be a part of a balanced diet. They include protein from the chicken and beans, as well as vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use whole-grain puff pastry for a healthier option.

Conclusion

These Mexican Chicken Empanadas are more than just a tasty snack; they’re a wonderful way to bring the flavors of Mexico into your home. The combination of tender chicken, zesty seasonings, and flaky pastry is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with your family, these empanadas are bound to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves and whip up a batch today—you won’t be disappointed!

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