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### Instructions
1. **Prepare the chicken filling:**
– Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
– Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If desired, stir in some chopped cilantro and shredded cheese for extra flavor and creaminess.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool for a few minutes.
2. **Assemble the empanadas:**
– If you’re using store-bought empanada dough, place the dough discs on a clean surface. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken filling into the center of each dough circle.
– Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal the empanada. You can crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they stay sealed during cooking.
3. **Egg wash (optional):**
– Beat the egg in a small bowl. Brush a light layer of egg wash over the tops of the empanadas to give them a beautiful golden color when baked or fried.
4. **Cook the empanadas:**
**To Fry:**
– Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully lower the empanadas into the oil, a few at a time. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the empanadas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
**To Bake:**
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
5. **Serve and enjoy:**
– Once the empanadas are cooked, serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
### Tips and Variations
– **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the chicken filling and assemble the empanadas ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for storage. Bake or fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
– **Add Veggies:** Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like corn, olives, or spinach, to the filling. These additions will enhance the flavor and add a little extra nutrition.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
– **Cheese Options:** Besides cheddar or mozzarella, you could try using queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a unique twist.
– **Baked or Fried:** If you’re looking for a healthier version, baking the empanadas is a great option. They’ll still turn out crispy and delicious without the extra oil.
### Why Chicken Empanadas Are So Special
Chicken empanadas are more than just a meal—they’re a bite-sized burst of flavor and texture that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The combination of a crispy, golden exterior and a flavorful, savory filling makes them a perfect snack or appetizer. And the best part? You can customize the filling to your liking, from adding different cheeses to spicing them up with jalapeños. Plus, empanadas can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining guests.
### Final Thoughts
**Simple Chicken Empanadas** are the ultimate handheld comfort food—crispy, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you bake or fry them, the combination of tender chicken, savory seasonings, and a crispy crust will keep everyone coming back for more. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner, these empanadas are easy to make, fun to eat, and sure to impress.
So the next time you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s full of flavor and simple to prepare, try this chicken empanada recipe. It’s a guaranteed winner!
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