Chicken Empadon
A savory chicken empanada with a crispy pastry crust, filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy mayonnaise, perfect for hearty family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 4 cups of flour and mayonnaise to form a dough.
- Pat the mixture into a pre-buttered 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish, pressing into the bottom and up the sides.
- Prepare the chicken and vegetable filling by combining chopped chicken breasts, chopped green onions, diced fresh tomato, and parsley.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the pastry base.
- Top with the remaining pastry mixture, spreading it over the filling.
- Brush the top with beaten egg yolk.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer filling, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the chicken mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works well as a shortcut. You can substitute the parsley with fresh cilantro for a different flavor profile. To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure the dough is evenly pressed and baked until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Empadon with a fresh green salad or a side of Oriental Spicy Slaw to add a crunch. It also pairs beautifully with a light tomato salsa or avocado dip for added flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispness of the pastry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Empadon contains roughly 977 calories, with 20g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 750mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the cooking times are adjusted based on the meat chosen.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
Can I freeze Chicken Empadon before baking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Chicken Empadon and freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).