Looking for a fun and tasty way to please picky eaters? Try my Soft Kid-Friendly Chicken and Corn Empanadas! With a creamy filling of chicken, sweet corn, and cheese, these bites are not only delicious but also easy for kids to help make. I’ll guide you through simple steps that ensure every bite is soft and flavorful. Let’s make cooking together fun and enjoyable for your family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Kid-Friendly: This empanada recipe is perfect for children, combining familiar flavors in a fun, hand-held format that they will love.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 45 minutes, these empanadas can be made swiftly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Filling: Feel free to customize the filling with different vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs.
- Perfect for Dipping: These empanadas pair wonderfully with dips like salsa or guacamole, adding an extra layer of fun to mealtime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Empanadas
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sweet corn
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Dough Components
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package of refrigerated pie dough
Egg Wash and Additional Items
- 1 egg, beaten
- Optional serving suggestions (salsa, guacamole)
To make soft kid-friendly chicken and corn empanadas, you need tasty ingredients. Start with cooked chicken that you can shred easily. Sweet corn adds a nice pop of flavor. Cream cheese makes the filling creamy. Lastly, cheddar cheese gives a yummy cheesy taste.
For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the dish. Ground cumin brings warmth and a hint of spice. Don't forget salt and pepper for balance. Use refrigerated pie dough to save time. It rolls out perfectly and keeps the empanadas soft.
You will also need a beaten egg for the egg wash. This helps the empanadas turn golden brown as they bake. Serve with salsa or guacamole for an extra treat. Kids love to dip!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
Start by mixing the shredded chicken, sweet corn, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese in a big bowl. Make sure to stir well until everything blends nicely. Next, add in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix again until the spices spread evenly throughout the filling.
Dough Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the empanadas from sticking. On a clean, floured surface, roll out your pie dough until it's about 1/8 inch thick. This helps the empanadas bake evenly. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles about 4-5 inches wide. You should get around 12 circles.
Assembling Empanadas
Take each dough circle and place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken and corn filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause leaks. Next, fold the dough circle in half to make a semi-circle. Press the edges firmly to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a fun design and extra strength.
Baking the Empanadas
Brush the tops of your empanadas with a beaten egg. This will give them a lovely golden color as they bake. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be golden and slightly crisp.
Serving Tips
Once baked, let the empanadas cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. For a fun presentation, serve them on a bright plate. You can pair these with salsa or creamy guacamole. Kids love to dip, making it a fun meal!
Tips & Tricks
Make Empanadas Kid-Friendly
To make these empanadas perfect for kids, reduce spice levels. Skip the cumin and use just a pinch of salt. You can also swap garlic powder for a touch of sugar. This keeps the flavor mild and tasty.
Involve kids in cooking! Let them mix the filling. They can also help roll out the dough. Kids love using cookie cutters. This makes cooking fun and brings joy to the kitchen.
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To achieve soft empanadas, focus on the dough. Roll it out thin, about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them bake evenly. Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling. This makes sure all flavors blend well.
If you want to switch up flavors, use different cheeses. Try mozzarella or a dairy-free option. You can also add finely chopped veggies for extra crunch. This adds color and nutrients to your empanadas.
Time-Saving Strategies
Prepare the filling in advance. You can store it in the fridge for up to two days. This way, you save time on busy days.
Using pre-made dough is a great time-saver, too. It cuts down on prep time. However, making your own dough gives a fresher taste. Choose what works best for you and your family.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the pie dough for about 15-30 minutes before rolling it out can help prevent it from becoming too soft, making it easier to work with.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced bell peppers, black beans, or even spices like paprika to create variations that suit your family's taste.
- Perfectly Sealed Edges: For a better seal, brush a little water or egg wash along the edges of the dough before pressing them together. This helps prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- Freezing for Later: These empanadas freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Variations
Alternative Fillings
You can change the filling to suit your taste. For a vegetarian twist, use black beans and mixed veggies. Try corn, bell peppers, and spinach for a colorful mix. You can also use turkey or beef instead of chicken. Shredded turkey with spices gives a new flavor. Ground beef mixed with cheese is another tasty choice.
Different Cheese Options
Cheese makes empanadas creamy and rich. You can swap cheddar for mozzarella for a milder taste. Cream cheese gives a nice smooth texture. If you want dairy-free options, use cashew cheese or almond cream. These alternatives work well and keep the empanadas delicious.
Cooking Methods
You can cook empanadas in different ways. Baking is easy and keeps them soft, but air frying makes them crispy. If you prefer a crunch, pan-fry the empanadas in oil. This adds a nice golden crust. Each method changes the texture, so try them all to find your favorite!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Empanadas
To keep your leftover empanadas fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them soft. They can last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to save empanadas for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the empanadas cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Next, place them in a freezer bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have two main choices: the oven or microwave.
For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them soft and helps the crust stay crisp.
If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the empanadas on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check to see if they are warm enough. Microwaving is quick, but it may make the empanadas a bit soft. To keep the flavor, consider adding a damp paper towel over them while microwaving.
FAQs
What is the best way to seal empanadas?
To seal empanadas, press the edges firmly together. This keeps the filling inside. After folding the dough, use a fork to crimp the edges. This adds a fun design and ensures a tight seal. You can also use water or beaten egg on the edges before pressing to help them stick.
Can I use different types of dough for empanadas?
Yes, you can use different types of dough. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pie dough. Many stores sell this. You can also make your own dough with gluten-free flour. If you prefer homemade dough, mix flour, water, and fat until it’s soft.
How can I make empanadas ahead of time?
You can make empanadas ahead of time. Prepare the filling and fill the dough circles. Then, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer when ready, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with chicken empanadas?
Kids love fun dipping sauces! Try salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also serve ranch dressing or a simple cheese sauce. These dips add flavor and make eating empanadas more fun. Enjoy mixing and matching different flavors!
Empanadas are a tasty treat. We made them using cooked chicken, cheese, corn, and spices. Remember to roll your dough and seal them well. You can bake or fry them for crunch.
Feel free to try new fillings or cheeses. Get kids involved for more fun in the kitchen. Store any leftovers properly, so they stay fresh. Enjoy your empanadas with dips, and share them with loved ones!
