What To Know
- Store leftover empanadas chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place the empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
- Yes, you can bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
In the realm of culinary delights, empanadas reign supreme, captivating taste buds with their golden-brown crust and delectable fillings. Among these savory treats, chicken empanadas stand tall, a symphony of flavors that tantalize the senses. This comprehensive guide will unveil the art of crafting these delectable pockets of joy, guiding you through the steps of making empanadas chicken with ease.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
1. Empanada Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Butter
- Ice water
2. Chicken Filling:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chicken broth
- Chopped cilantro
3. Assembly and Frying:
- Egg wash
- Vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Guide: A Culinary Symphony
1. Crafting the Empanada Dough:
a. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
b. Use your fingers to work in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
c. Gradually add ice water until the dough just comes together.
d. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preparing the Chicken Filling:
a. Dice the chicken breasts into small pieces.
b. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
c. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
d. Add chicken and cook until browned.
e. Season with cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
f. Pour in chicken broth and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
g. Stir in chopped cilantro.
3. Assembling and Frying the Empanadas:
a. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
b. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of 1/8 inch (3 mm).
c. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or a glass.
d. Place a spoonful of chicken filling in the center of each circle.
e. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
f. Brush the empanadas with egg wash.
g. Carefully place the empanadas in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
h. Drain the empanadas on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions: A Culinary Canvas
Empanadas chicken can be served as an appetizer, main course, or snack. Accompany them with various dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or rice.
Storage Tips: Preserving Culinary Delights
Store leftover empanadas chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the empanadas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the empanadas for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations: A Culinary Adventure
1. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
2. Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded cheese to the chicken filling for a gooey, melted center.
3. Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or chili powder into the chicken filling for a spicy twist.
In a nutshell: A Culinary Symphony Concludes
With the knowledge gained from this comprehensive guide, you can embark on a culinary journey to craft delectable empanadas chicken that will tantalize taste buds and create lasting memories. Experiment with different fillings and variations to create your own signature empanada recipe. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions: Unraveling Culinary Mysteries
1. Can I use store-bought empanada dough?
- Yes, you can use store-bought empanada dough to save time. Follow the package instructions for preparation and assembly.
2. Can I bake the empanadas instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake the empanadas in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. How do I ensure the empanadas are sealed properly?
- To prevent the empanadas from bursting open during frying, make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork or by crimping them together.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with empanadas chicken?
- Empanadas chicken can be paired with various dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a spicy chili sauce.
5. Can I freeze the empanadas before frying them?
- Yes, you can freeze the empanadas before frying them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen empanadas for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
