🍗 Air Fryer Chicken Empanadas 🥟: Crispy, Flaky, and Flavorful!
Craving a handheld treat that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor? These Air Fryer Chicken Empanadas are here to satisfy your taste buds! Made with tender shredded chicken, savory spices, and a golden, flaky crust, these empanadas are a healthier twist on the classic fried version—thanks to the magic of your air fryer. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a fun dinner, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s get started!
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!🥘 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible empanadas:
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped 🍗
- 1/2 cup diced onions 🧅
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers 🌶️
- 1/4 cup corn kernels 🌽
- 1/4 cup black beans (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Dough:
- 10-12 store-bought empanada discs (or homemade dough)
- 1 egg (for egg wash) 🥚
- For Serving (Optional):
- Salsa or pico de gallo 🍅
- Guacamole or avocado slices 🥑
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro or lime wedges for garnish 🌿🍋
🍴 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers, and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the Chicken and Spices: Stir in the shredded chicken, corn, black beans (if using), cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Empanadas
- Lay Out the Dough: Place an empanada disc on a clean surface.
- Add the Filling: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the center of the disc.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the disc in half to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges tightly. Repeat with the remaining discs and filling.
Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for 3-5 minutes.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly beat the egg and brush it over the empanadas for a golden, shiny finish.
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
- Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Let Them Cool: Allow the empanadas to cool for a few minutes—they’ll be piping hot!
- Garnish and Dip: Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Air frying cuts down on oil, making these empanadas lighter than the traditional fried version.
- Crispy and Flaky: The air fryer gives these empanadas a perfect golden crust without the mess of frying.
- Customizable: Swap the chicken for beef, pork, or even a vegetarian filling like beans and cheese.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for snacks, parties, or meal prep!
💡 Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the empanadas can make them harder to seal and more likely to burst.
- Seal Tightly: Use a fork to press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Batch Cooking: Cook in batches if your air fryer is small to ensure even crispiness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the empanadas just before cooking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your Air Fryer Chicken Empanadas with:
- A side of Mexican rice or cilantro-lime quinoa 🍚
- A fresh corn and avocado salad 🌽🥑
- A cold glass of horchata or a margarita 🍹
📸 Share Your Creation!
Did you make this recipe? We’d love to see your golden, crispy empanadas! Tag us on social media with #AirFryerEmpanadas and let us know how they turned out.
🥳 Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Chicken Empanadas are a game-changer for anyone who loves the crispy, flaky goodness of empanadas but wants a healthier, easier way to enjoy them. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for parties, snacks, or even a fun family dinner. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Happy Cooking! 🍴✨
