Empanada Chciken And Bacon Receipe

The empanada is a beloved dish in many cultures, known for its flavorful, portable, and handheld qualities. Today, we delve into a creative twist on the classic, introducing a mouth-watering Chicken and Bacon Empanada recipe that blends traditional South American spices with the comforting, familiar flavors of chicken and bacon. This combination not only elevates the humble empanada but also ensures each bite is packed with savory goodness. Let's embark on this culinary journey together.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg
• ½ cup cold water
• For the Filling:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• ½ pound bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup green olives, pitted and chopped (optional)
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough

1. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg and water, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Transfer to a floured surface, knead briefly, then wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

🌟 Note: The dough should be soft yet firm. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour; if it's too dry, add a few drops of water.

Preparing the Filling

1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some grease in the pan.
2. In the same skillet, cook onions until translucent, then add garlic.
3. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika, and cook until no longer pink.
4. Stir in the tomato and tomato paste, cook until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
5. Mix in the cooked bacon, olives, and chopped egg if using.
6. Let the filling cool to room temperature.

Assembling Empanadas

1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¹⁄₈ inch thickness.
2. Cut into circles using a round cutter or a bowl as a guide.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal.
5. Crimp the edges with a fork or create a decorative braided edge.

Cooking Options

Frying:

• Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
• Fry empanadas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush empanadas with egg wash for a golden color.
• Bake on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.

The Chicken and Bacon Empanada is a delightful fusion of flavors, where the richness of bacon and the tenderness of chicken are encased in a crisp, golden pastry. Each step in this recipe ensures that you achieve the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or a cozy meal. Experiment with the dough, fillings, and cooking methods to tailor this recipe to your taste or dietary preferences. Remember, the key to empanadas is the harmony between the filling and the crust, so feel free to adjust spice levels or add in additional ingredients like vegetables or different cheeses.

Can I freeze Chicken and Bacon Empanadas?

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Absolutely! After assembling the empanadas, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. They can be fried or baked directly from the freezer, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

How do I keep the dough from getting soggy?

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Ensure that your filling is completely cooled before assembling the empanadas to prevent any moisture from making the dough soggy. Also, avoid overstuffing, as this can release extra moisture during cooking.

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

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If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using a smoked or savory flavored cheese, mushrooms, or even chickpeas to add a similar hearty texture and flavor to the chicken filling.