Empadas

Prep: 30 min Cuisine: Brazilian

Delicious savory empadas with a flaky crust and flavorful chicken filling, perfect for snacking or as a main dish, appealing to both casual and gourmet appetites.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 cups sifted flour
  • 2 egg yolks
  • salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup margarine
  • 1 cup shortening
  • Chicken Filling (recipe follows)

Instructions

  1. Sift flour, salt, and baking powder together.
  2. Add one egg yolk, mixing well until mixture resembles coarse oatmeal.
  3. Add margarine and shortening and mix until dough becomes soft.
  4. Do not overmix, but just until it holds together with fingertips.
  5. Press small portions of dough into cupcake tins.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano to the dough. If you don't have margarine, you can substitute with butter for a more traditional taste. Ensure your dough is not overmixed to maintain a flaky texture. For a unique twist, try using leftover chicken from recipes like Five Spice Jerk Chicken as a filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve empadas warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair wonderfully with a side of salsa or a fresh salad for a light meal. Consider serving them alongside Root Vegetables With Chicken for a satisfying dinner. They also make an excellent party food, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover empadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick option, though they may lose some texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Empadas contains roughly 632 calories, with 20g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1053mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).

632 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 20.3g 41% DV
Total Fat 60.7g 78% DV
Carbs 2.6g 1% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1052.9mg 46% DV
Potassium 160.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 289.8mcg 32% DV
Vitamin D 6.2mcg 31% DV
Calcium 438.3mg 34% DV
Iron 6.3mg 35% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 freeze empadas before baking?

Yes, you can freeze empadas before baking. Shape them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.

What filling options can I use for empadas?

Another great option is to use a mixture of beans and cheese for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless!

How can I make the dough more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the dough, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. You can also experiment with incorporating cheese into the dough for a savory touch. Additionally, using high-quality butter instead of margarine can elevate the overall taste.

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).

Chicken recipes → All recipes →