For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. If you don't have sazon seasoning, you can substitute with a mixture of cumin, coriander, garlic powder, and annatto powder. Empanadas can be made ahead of time and fried just before serving. You can also freeze the assembled empanadas before frying. When ready to cook, thaw them completely and then fry as directed.
Authentic Chicken Empanadas (Empanadas de Pollo)
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PREP TIME35 mins
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COOK TIME35 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 10 mins
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SERVING12 People
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VIEWS12
Transport yourself to the sun-kissed shores of Puerto Rico with these savory chicken empanadas. Golden, crispy pastry filled with a flavorful chicken mixture, these hand-held pies are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a light meal. A taste of the Caribbean, right in your kitchen!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate25 g
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Cholesterol30 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein13 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium860 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat14 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add warm water and 1/4 cup vegetable oil. Mix with an electric mixer until a dough begins to form (approximately 3 minutes). Remove the dough and knead on a lightly floured surface for about 3 minutes. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 15 minutes. (Total Time: 21 minutes)
02
StepMake the Chicken Filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded chicken and sauté until heated through (approximately 2 minutes). Add the diced onion, bell pepper, cilantro, sliced green olives, crushed garlic, sazon seasoning, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly. (Total Time: 12 minutes)
03
StepAssemble the Empanadas: Divide the empanada dough into 12 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 4-inch circle. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough in half to form a crescent shape. Press down on the edges with a fork to seal tightly. (Total Time: 20 minutes)
04
StepFry the Empanadas: Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the empanadas in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Transfer the fried empanadas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. (Total Time: 10 minutes per batch)
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Shany Rodriguez
Jun 24, 2025I baked them instead of frying and they came out great! A healthier option that still tastes amazing.
Mohammed Lowe
Jun 19, 2025I've tried many empanada recipes, and this one is by far the best. The dough is so easy to work with, and the filling is packed with flavor.
Pamela Gutmann
Jun 11, 2025My family couldn't get enough of these! I will definitely be making them again.
Arch Wiegand
Jun 7, 2025I added some chopped jalapenos to the chicken filling for an extra kick. Delicious!
Kaycee Runte
Jun 7, 2025These empanadas were a huge hit at my party! Everyone loved the flavorful filling and crispy crust.
Bonita Blanda
Jun 4, 2025The sazon seasoning really makes these empanadas authentic. So glad I found this recipe!