Spicy Chicken Empanadas

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Chicken Empanadas.

1. Step 1

   To start your culinary adventure, gather all your ingredients in one place for easy access.

2. Step 2

   In a saucepan, warm up some olive oil over medium heat.

3. Step 3

   Toss in the diced onion, poblano pepper, chopped garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, chipotle pepper, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and the cooked chicken.

4. Step 4

   Give it a good stir, pressing down the mixture as you go to blend those flavors beautifully.

5. Step 5

   Next, add the dried currants for a touch of sweetness.

6. Step 6

   Cook this delightful mixture on high heat until the onions begin to soften, which should take about three minutes.

7. Step 7

   Then, stir in the diced tomatoes with green chiles and pour in a third of a cup of water, mixing everything together until well combined.

8. Step 8

   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to medium.

9. Step 9

   Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens, which will take around 30 to 45 minutes.

10. Step 10

    Once done, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

11. Step 11

    For the best flavor, chill the filling in the refrigerator for one to two hours before using.

12. Step 12

    While your filling cools, let’s prepare the dough.

13. Step 13

    In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.

14. Step 14

    Grate in some cold butter and mix it with your hands until everything is well blended.

15. Step 15

    Add a beaten egg and two teaspoons of water to the flour mixture, using a fork to combine until it starts to form a shaggy dough.

16. Step 16

    Knead the dough gently with your hands for about 10 to 15 seconds until it forms a nice ball.

17. Step 17

    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have the time.

18. Step 18

    When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

19. Step 19

    Unwrap the chilled dough and place it on a lightly floured surface.

20. Step 20

    Divide the dough into eight equal pieces and roll each piece into an 8-inch circle.

21. Step 21

    Drain any excess liquid from your chicken filling, then place a rounded half-cup of the filling in the center of each dough circle.

22. Step 22

    If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated pepper Jack cheese on top.

23. Step 23

    Brush the edges of each dough circle with a little water to moisten them.

24. Step 24

    Fold the dough over the filling and seal it with your fingertips, making sure to press out any air pockets.

25. Step 25

    Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to secure everything inside.

26. Step 26

    For a beautiful finish, create an egg wash by mixing a beaten egg with two teaspoons of water.

27. Step 27

    Brush the tops of the empanadas with this mixture and sprinkle a little cayenne pepper on top if you like a bit of extra heat.

28. Step 28

    Bake the empanadas in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown and the edges are crispy.

29. Step 29

    Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about five minutes before serving.

30. Step 30

    Enjoy your warm, delicious Spicy Chicken Empanadas, and savor every bite of this flavorful treat!.