🥟 The Perfect Baked Chicken Empanadas Recipe

Empanadas are a classic Latin American pastry filled with savory ingredients and baked or fried to perfection. Baking them makes them healthier, while keeping that golden, flaky texture we all love.

🧂 Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded)

• 1 small onion (finely chopped)

• 1 garlic clove (minced)

• 1/2 cup bell peppers (diced)

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

• 1 package refrigerated empanada dough or puff pastry

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

👨‍🍳 Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until fragrant.

3. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4. Remove from heat, add the cheese, and let the filling cool.

5. Roll out the dough, cut circles (about 4–5 inches wide), and fill each with 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture.

6. Fold and seal the edges using a fork. Brush each empanada with egg wash.

7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

🧡 Why You’ll Love It:

• Baked, not fried — less oil, same crispy bite.

• Ideal for meal prep — store and reheat easily.

• Pairs beautifully with spicy aioli or creamy avocado dip.

These baked chicken empanadas are perfect for serving at brunches, family get-togethers, or as appetizers for a festive dinner. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake? Simply irresistible.

🧀 Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites: A Must-Try Appetizer!

Now let’s elevate your appetizer game with something a little more sophisticated yet easy to prepare — Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites. This bite-sized delight brings together creamy, buttery Brie cheese and the nutty crunch of pistachios for an unforgettable gourmet experience.

🌿 Ingredients:

• 1 wheel of Brie cheese (cut into cubes)

• 1/2 cup crushed pistachios

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• Puff pastry squares or phyllo cups

• A pinch of sea salt

👩‍🍳 Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut Brie into bite-sized cubes and roll each in crushed pistachios.

3. Place each cube in a puff pastry square or phyllo cup.

4. Drizzle lightly with honey or maple syrup.

5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the pastry turns golden and the Brie is soft and melty.

💫 Tips for the Best Results:

• Use roasted pistachios for deeper flavor.

• For a sweet-savory twist, top with a drop of fig jam or cranberry sauce.

• Serve immediately while warm for that perfect gooey texture.

These pistachio-crusted brie bites are the definition of luxury made simple — ideal for cocktail parties, wine nights, or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions: Make It a Winning Appetizer Spread

Pairing baked chicken empanadas with pistachio-crusted brie bites offers a complete flavor journey:

• Savory & Hearty: Empanadas fill you up with their rich chicken and spice blend.

• Creamy & Crunchy: Brie bites deliver a gourmet nutty sweetness that balances perfectly.

• Add a fresh salad, salsa bar, or charcuterie board for a party spread your guests will rave about.

🏆 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration, a dinner party, or just want something fun to bake, this duo of Baked Chicken Empanadas and Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites is a guaranteed hit. Easy to make, stunning to serve, and even better to eat — they combine comfort and elegance in every bite.

So, preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to wow your guests with these two must-try appetizers that make every occasion unforgettable.