Name: Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Latin-inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped; 1 tablespoon adobo sauce; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 2 green onions, chopped; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 package empanada dough or 2 pie crusts; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Golden, crispy, and filled with smoky chipotle-spiced chicken, these Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas are exactly what your weeknight dinner lineup has been missing. With a flaky pastry shell and a savory, slightly spicy filling, they bring bold flavor in a compact, hand-held package. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping snacks for a party, these empanadas come together with minimal effort and maximum taste.

The chipotle chicken filling is hearty and comforting, with just the right level of heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them. Tucked into buttery dough and baked (or fried, if you’re feeling indulgent), each bite delivers a balance of smoky, creamy, and savory that’s utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas Recipe

These empanadas are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or grab-and-go lunch. They freeze well, reheat beautifully, and can even be customized with cheese, veggies, or black beans for variety. Plus, they’re a fun way to mix up taco night without straying too far from familiar flavors.

The combination of shredded chicken and chipotle peppers creates a rich, smoky profile that pairs perfectly with the flaky exterior. Best of all, you can use store-bought pie dough or empanada discs to keep things ultra simple.

What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Empanadas?

While homemade dough gives you full control over flavor and texture, there’s no shame in taking a shortcut. Store-bought empanada wrappers or even refrigerated pie crust work wonderfully here. If you’re using pie crust, just cut circles using a bowl or large cutter. For a crispier finish, you can brush the tops with egg wash before baking.

Ingredients for the Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas

This recipe keeps things straightforward, using ingredients that pack flavor without requiring a long list. Each component plays a key role in building bold taste and perfect texture.

Cooked shredded chicken: The hearty base of the filling, soaking up all the smoky chipotle flavor.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Smoky, slightly spicy, and full of depth.
Cream cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy element that balances the heat.
Shredded cheese: Melts into the filling for richness and gooey texture.
Green onions: Freshness and a hint of bite that lifts the whole mix.
Garlic powder: For a touch of savory depth.
Empanada dough or pie crust: The flaky shell that holds all the goodness together.
Egg (for egg wash): Gives a golden, glossy finish when baked.

How To Make the Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas

Step 1: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped chipotle peppers with some adobo sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, green onions, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined and creamy.

Step 2: Assemble the Empanadas

Roll out your dough and cut it into circles about 4 to 5 inches wide. Scoop a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture into the center of each circle. Fold over into a half-moon shape and press the edges with a fork to seal.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and brush the tops of each empanada. Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve and Store Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas

These empanadas are best served warm, right out of the oven when the filling is soft and gooey. They make a perfect weeknight dinner, tailgating snack, or lunchbox addition. This recipe yields about 10 to 12 empanadas, enough to serve 4 to 6 people depending on appetites and sides.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain the crispness.

They also freeze beautifully. Just wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for about 25 minutes.

What to Serve With Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas?

Cilantro Lime Rice

Bright, fluffy, and subtly tangy, this rice balances out the smoky heat of the empanadas.

Guacamole

Cool and creamy with a hint of lime, guac is the perfect contrast to the crispy shell.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Sweet corn, cotija, lime, and chili powder bring bold flavors that pair perfectly.

Black Bean Salsa

This zesty, protein-packed side adds freshness and crunch.

Mango Salsa

A touch of fruity sweetness brings out the smokiness of the chipotle chicken.

Refried Beans

Creamy and comforting, beans are a classic empanada partner.

Sour Cream or Chipotle Mayo

A dipping sauce adds that extra layer of indulgence.

Simple Side Salad

A light salad with lime vinaigrette helps balance the richness.

Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you love bold chicken recipes like these empanadas, check out a few of my favorite dishes next:

Try the creamy twist in Creamy Chicken and Broccoli.
For something baked and cheesy, my Cheesy Baked Ziti won’t disappoint.
This Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken has comfort written all over it.
Need a cozy soup? You’ll adore the Cajun Potato Soup.
And don’t miss the flavor-packed Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini!

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or mild with the chipotle? Maybe added corn or black beans to the filling?

I love hearing your delicious twists. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

Explore beautifully curated dinner and snack ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals for busy nights!
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Conclusion

Easy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas are the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar without spending hours cooking. They’re flavorful, portable, and a great way to use leftover chicken in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick weeknight win, this is one you’ll want to save and make again and again.