Indulge in the delightful flavors of Mini Chicken Empanadas, an appetizer that brings together the convenience of refrigerated pie pastry and a mouthwatering filling of chicken and cheese. Crafted by Betty Fulks from Onia, Arkansas, these bite-size treats are perfect for any gathering, from casual parties to elegant occasions. Their quick assembly and irresistible taste make them a crowd-pleasing favorite.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
- ⅔ cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 4 teaspoons chopped sweet red pepper
- 2 teaspoons chopped seeded jalapeno pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie pastry
PREPARATIONS:
- In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked chicken, shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped sweet red pepper, chopped seeded jalapeno pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll each pastry sheet into a 15-inch circle. Use a floured 3-inch round biscuit cutter to cut out circles.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of the chicken and cheese filling on one half of each circle. Moisten the pastry edges with water, then fold the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
- Transfer the empanadas to greased baking sheets and bake them at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
YIELD: About 2½ dozen empanadas
PREP/BAKE TIME: 30 minutes / 15 minutes per batch
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- When handling hot peppers, it’s advisable to wear disposable gloves to prevent skin irritation. Also, avoid touching your face during this process.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different fillings to cater to various tastes. You can try variations with beef, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like fruit or chocolate for dessert empanadas.
- Serve the empanadas with your favorite dipping sauce or a zesty salsa for an added burst of flavor.
Enter a world of savory delights with Mini Chicken Empanadas, an appetizer created by Betty Fulks from Onia, Arkansas. Combining the ease of refrigerated pie pastry with a delectable chicken and cheese filling, these bite-size wonders are sure to captivate your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or an elegant affair, these empanadas make for the perfect appetizer that disappears as quickly as you serve them.
With a medley of flavors that includes cooked chicken, Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, sweet red pepper, jalapeno pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper, each empanada promises a burst of delectable taste in every bite. Encased in a flaky pastry, the filling’s combination offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
The quick preparation process allows you to assemble these tantalizing treats effortlessly. Simply roll out the pastry, fill it with the flavorful mixture, and seal it with a fork. The baking process takes just 12-15 minutes, resulting in golden brown empanadas with a pleasing aroma that draws everyone to the table.
Mini Chicken Empanadas not only cater to your appetite but also offer versatility in their usage. These delightful hand pies can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main course. Customizable fillings ensure that you can experiment with various ingredients to suit every occasion and taste preference.
In conclusion, Mini Chicken Empanadas epitomize the art of crafting delightful finger foods that delight both young and old alike. Betty Fulks’ creation perfectly balances convenience and taste, making it a must-try for any gathering or event. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and savor the culinary excellence of these bite-size wonders that will leave everyone craving for more.
