Chicken and Pepperjack Empanada Pockets Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

These Chicken and Pepperjack Empanada Pockets are a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a quick meal or snack. Filled with seasoned chicken and spicy pepperjack cheese, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

This chicken recipe is straightforward and can be made using store-bought dough or homemade pastry. You can customize the filling with additional ingredients like vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Savory Chicken Empanada Pockets

These empanada pockets feature tender chicken mixed with pepperjack cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 pockets.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup pepperjack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package of empanada dough or homemade pastry
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Oil for frying (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pepperjack cheese, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Empanadas: Roll out the empanada dough on a floured surface. Cut into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each circle.
Seal the Empanadas: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Cook the Empanadas: You can either bake or fry the empanadas. To bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the empanadas on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. To fry, heat oil in a deep pan and fry the empanadas until golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the empanadas cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a snack or meal.