Chicken Empanadas (Empanadas De Pollo): Recipe, History & Perfect Pairings

Empanadas trace their roots back to Spanish cuisine. During the Moorish invasion, spiced meat-filled pastries became part of Spain’s culinary traditions. These savory pies, often filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, laid the foundation for what we now know as empanadas. Chicken became a popular filling, appealing due to its versatility and wide availability.

Regional Variations in Latin America

Latin America embraced and transformed empanadas, adapting them to local tastes and ingredients. In Argentina, chicken empanadas feature green olives and hard-boiled eggs. In Mexico, they incorporate spicy sauces and local spices, while in Chile, they include raisins and olives for a unique blend of flavors. Each region adds its own twist, preserving the core elements while celebrating local culinary traditions.

Ingredients Used in Authentic Chicken Empanadas

Key Spices and Herbs

Authentic chicken empanadas rely on a distinct blend of spices and herbs. Cumin offers a warm, earthy flavor. Paprika, typically smoked, adds depth. Oregano enhances the overall aroma. Garlic and onion powder provide a foundational savoriness. Fresh cilantro or parsley garnishes, adding vibrant notes. Each spice and herb contributes to the signature taste, ensuring an authentic experience.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Selecting the right chicken influences the final dish. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for tender, juicy filling. Dark meat, such as thighs, offers richer flavor due to higher fat content. Shred the cooked chicken to achieve a consistent texture throughout the empanada. Quality chicken ensures a flavorful and moist filling, critical for authentic chicken empanadas.

Preparing the Dough for Empanadas

Traditional Techniques

Traditional techniques for preparing empanada dough focus on achieving the right texture and flavor. Use all-purpose flour, cold butter, salt, and water. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut cold butter into small pieces and blend it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, mixing until the dough forms a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This process ensures a flaky and tender crust that pairs perfectly with the chicken filling.

Modern Variations

Modern variations of empanada dough incorporate diverse ingredients to enhance flavor and texture. Swap out butter for vegetable shortening or lard if you’re looking for a different fat profile. Some recipes add an egg to the dough for extra richness. Include a touch of vinegar or lemon juice to create a dough that’s both flaky and easy to work with. Whole wheat flour or alternative flours like cornmeal can be used for a unique twist. These modern adaptations offer both traditional and innovative cooks options to experiment while preserving the essence of the dish.

Cooking Methods for Chicken Empanadas

Baking vs. Frying

Decide between baking and frying, the two primary cooking methods for chicken empanadas. Baking offers a healthier option while preserving the flavors of the filling and dough. Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Baking ensures an even cooking process and a consistently crisp crust.

On the other hand, frying produces a rich, golden crust and a slightly different flavor profile. Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy skillet. Fry empanadas for 2-3 minutes per side, resulting in a perfectly browned and flaky exterior. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Choose frying if you prefer a traditional, indulgent experience.

Tips for Perfect Crust

To achieve a perfect crust, ensure your dough is chilled before rolling. Cold dough maintains its structure and produces a flakier crust. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness. This thickness ensures the crust is neither too thick nor too thin, providing the ideal balance between crunch and filling.

Brush the edges with egg wash before sealing to create a strong bond and prevent leaks during cooking. Crimp the edges with a fork or fold them into a traditional repulgue design. The egg wash also gives the crust a beautiful, glossy finish when baked or fried.

For added flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or coarse sea salt on top of the empanadas before baking. These small additions enhance the presentation and add a delightful crunch. Practice these tips to ensure your chicken empanadas have a consistently excellent crust.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments and Dips

Authentic chicken empanadas become even more delightful with the right accompaniments. Offer sides like a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice to create a balanced meal. Popular dips include chimichurri sauce, salsa verde, and spicy avocado dip. Chimichurri sauce, made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil, enhances the empanadas’ savory notes. Salsa verde, a mix of tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro, adds tang and heat. Spicy avocado dip combines mashed avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and chili flakes, providing a creamy and piquant contrast.

Pairing with Beverages

Choosing the perfect beverages elevates your dining experience. For non-alcoholic options, serve refreshing drinks like horchata, a rice milk beverage seasoned with cinnamon, or agua fresca, a blend of fruit, water, and sugar. If you prefer alcoholic pairings, consider wines like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a vibrant Malbec to complement the empanadas’ flavors. Beers such as a light lager or a bold IPA also harmonize well, balancing the richness of the dish with their distinct profiles.

Conclusion

Authentic Chicken Empanadas offer a delightful culinary journey through rich cultural traditions and diverse flavors. By mastering essential ingredients and techniques, you can create empanadas that are both delicious and true to their roots. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, pairing them with the right accompaniments and beverages will elevate your dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, follow the tips, and enjoy making these mouthwatering empanadas that are sure to impress your family and friends.