Chicken Cheese Empanada

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for gatherings as well as cozy nights at home, then you’ll love this recipe for Chicken Cheese Empanadas. These savory hand pies are a delightful combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings, all wrapped in flaky pastry. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply want a tasty snack, these empanadas are sure to please your taste buds. Let’s dive into making these irresistible Chicken Cheese Empanadas!

Ingredients:

– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 sheets store-bought puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and season with ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

5. Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into 4 equal squares, creating a total of 8 squares.

6. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken and cheese mixture onto the center of each pastry square, leaving some space around the edges for sealing.

7. Brush the edges of the pastry squares with the beaten egg wash. Fold each square over the filling to create a triangle shape, and seal the edges by pressing them with a fork.

8. Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Brush the tops of the empanadas with more egg wash for a golden finish.

9. Bake the Chicken Cheese Empanadas in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

10. Once baked, let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. These tasty hand pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.

Enjoy these flavorful and satisfying Chicken Cheese Empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad for a complete meal. These flaky pastries filled with cheesy chicken goodness are bound to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with these homemade delights!