These minced chicken empanadas are shaped in the Andean style, with a golden, baked crust wrapped around a well-seasoned chicken filling. Ready in around 30 minutes, they make a solid appetizer or a filling snack. The straightforward preparation keeps them accessible for any weeknight.
1packagepre-made empanada pastry rounds12 rounds, available in the frozen section
Filling
1tablespoonolive oilextra virgin
½cuponionfinely chopped
1poundminced chickenpreferably organic
1clovegarlicminced
½teaspoonground cumin
¼teaspoonground paprika
¼cupgreen oliveschopped
¼cupraisins
1egghard-boiledchopped
1teaspoonsaltto taste
1eggbeatenfor egg wash
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Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
Add the minced chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in garlic, cumin, and paprika, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
Stir in the chopped olives, raisins, and chopped hard-boiled egg. Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Roll out each empanada pastry round gently if needed and place about a tablespoon of filling in the center of each.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together with a fork to seal them well.
Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
Notes
Lisa’s Tips
For a vegetarian version, substitute minced chicken with finely chopped mushrooms and bell peppers.
To ensure the dough doesn't crack, allow it to come to room temperature before assembling.
Experiment with filling ingredients like sweet corn or cheese for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the empanadas attractively on a platter.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch.
These pair beautifully with a side of spicy chimichurri sauce or a crisp green salad.
Culinary Context
The Andean region, known for its lush, varied landscapes, inspires its local cuisines, noted for ingredients like potatoes and corn.
These empanadas symbolize the cross-cultural influences found in South American culinary traditions.