Latin Fusion Chicken Empanadas

Ingredients

In the original Croatian dish, Vrbovečka pita, the filling consists of ground meat, onions, and spices, enclosed in a pastry crust. For the Latin Fusion Chicken Empanadas, we have adapted the filling to include shredded chicken, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a blend of Latin American and Chinese spices. Additionally, instead of a traditional pastry crust, we use empanada dough, which gives the dish a Latin American twist. We alse have the original recipe for Vrbovečka pita, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken, shredded 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. 4.
   Add the shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, chili powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. 6.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to seal the edges by pressing down firmly.
8. 8.
   Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Use cooked chicken breast or thigh meat for the filling. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Empanada dough — Ensure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky texture in the dough. If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling.
• Serve the empanadas with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping.
• If you prefer a spicier filling, increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Make a large batch of empanadas and freeze the extras for future quick and delicious meals.
• Experiment with different fillings such as beef, shrimp, or vegetarian options like black beans and corn.

Serving advice

Serve the Latin Fusion Chicken Empanadas warm as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with a fresh green salad or a side of rice and beans.

Presentation advice

Arrange the empanadas on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with a side of salsa or guacamole. The golden-brown crust and savory filling will entice your guests.