Grilled

Grilled Chicken Empanadas

Name: Grilled Chicken Empanadas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup warm water; 1/2 cup shredded chicken; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; 1/4 cup diced onion; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

By Theo Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Grilled

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves8

Grilled Chicken Empanadas — Savory grilled chicken empanadas

There's something special about a warm, flaky empanada filled with juicy chicken and melted cheese, straight from the grill. As a home cook, I've always been drawn to recipes that are both easy to make and impressive to serve, and my grilled chicken empanadas fit the bill perfectly. They're a staple in our household, and I love making them for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

I remember the first time I made empanadas from scratch - it was a game-changer. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy pastry was absolute perfection. Since then, I've experimented with different fillings and cooking methods, but this grilled version remains my favorite. There's something about the smoky flavor and crispy texture that just can't be beat.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize the filling to suit your tastes, adding in diced veggies or spices to give it an extra kick. And because they're grilled, you can make them year-round, whether you're cooking up a storm in the summer or looking for a hearty winter meal.

If you're new to making empanadas, don't worry - it's easier than you think. The key is to keep the ingredients simple and the technique straightforward. With a few basic pantry staples and some fresh chicken, you'll be on your way to creating delicious, grilled chicken empanadas that are sure to become a family favorite.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through every step of the process, from making the dough to grilling the empanadas to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, I'm confident you'll love this recipe as much as I do. So let's get started, and make some amazing grilled chicken empanadas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These empanadas are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and some simple assembly
They're perfect for a weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering, and can be customized to suit your tastes
The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and crispy pastry is absolute perfection
They're a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies, making them a budget-friendly option
They can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use, making them a great make-ahead option
They're a crowd-pleaser, and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great empanadas is all about the layers. You want a flaky, tender crust that's not too thick or too thin, and a filling that's packed with flavor but not so wet that it makes the pastry soggy. In this recipe, we achieve that perfect balance by using a combination of all-purpose flour, warm water, and a touch of salt to make the dough, and then filling it with a mixture of shredded chicken, melted cheese, and diced onion.

When it comes to grilling the empanadas, the key is to cook them over medium-high heat, so the pastry gets a nice crispy crust on the outside while the filling stays warm and melty on the inside. We also make sure to brush the empanadas with a little bit of oil before grilling, which helps them brown evenly and prevents them from sticking to the grill.

Another important factor is the temperature of the grill. We're aiming for a medium-high heat, which is around 400-425 F (200-220 C). This will give us a nice char on the outside of the empanadas, while cooking the filling to a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). By following these simple steps and using a few basic ingredients, you'll be able to create delicious grilled chicken empanadas that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious grilled chicken empanadas, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including all-purpose flour, warm water, and a touch of salt for the dough, and shredded chicken, melted cheese, and diced onion for the filling. You'll also need some oil for brushing the empanadas before grilling, and a few spices to add some extra flavor. Don't worry if you don't have all of these ingredients on hand - they're easy to find at most grocery stores, and you can always substitute in your favorite spices or fillings to give the empanadas your own personal touch.

When it comes to choosing the right ingredients, I always say that freshness and quality matter. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese, and try to use organic or locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. This will not only make your empanadas taste better, but it will also help support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint.

2 cups all-purpose flourThis will provide the structure and texture for our empanada dough, and can be substituted with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor
1 teaspoon saltThis will help bring out the flavors in the dough and filling, and can be adjusted to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepperThis will add a touch of spice and depth to the empanadas, and can be substituted with other spices like cumin or paprika
1/4 cup warm waterThis will help the dough come together and give it a tender, flaky texture
1/2 cup shredded chickenThis will provide the protein and flavor for our filling, and can be substituted with beef or veggies for a different twist
1/2 cup shredded cheeseThis will add creaminess and richness to the filling, and can be substituted with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella
1/4 cup diced onionThis will add a touch of sweetness and crunch to the filling, and can be substituted with other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms
2 tablespoons olive oilThis will help the empanadas brown evenly and prevent them from sticking to the grill
1 teaspoon cuminThis will add a warm, earthy flavor to the empanadas, and can be substituted with other spices like chili powder or garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprikaThis will add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the empanadas, and can be substituted with other spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Empanadas

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlMeasuring cups and spoonsElectric mixer or whiskRolling pinPastry brushInstant-read thermometerGrill or grill pan

How to Make Grilled Chicken Empanadas

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine
2
Gradually add in the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball
3
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic
4
Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a ball
5
Roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick
6
In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, diced onion, cumin, and paprika, and stir to combine
7
Place a tablespoon or two of the filling in the center of each dough circle
8
Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal
9
Brush the tops of the empanadas with olive oil, and place them on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium-high heat
10
Cook the empanadas for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they're golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C)
11
Remove the empanadas from the grill, and let them rest for a few minutes before serving
12
Serve the empanadas hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream

Expert Tips

Make sure to knead the dough long enough, so it becomes smooth and elastic
Don't overfill the empanadas, or they may burst open during cooking
Use a thermometer to ensure the empanadas reach a safe internal temperature
Don't overcrowd the grill, cook the empanadas in batches if necessary
Let the empanadas rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the filling to set
Experiment with different fillings and spices to give the empanadas your own personal touch
Consider making the empanadas ahead of time, and refrigerating or freezing them for later use

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not kneading the dough long enough, resulting in a tough or dense empanada
Overfilling the empanadas, causing them to burst open during cooking
Not cooking the empanadas to a safe internal temperature, which can lead to foodborne illness
Not letting the empanadas rest before serving, resulting in a filling that's not set
Not using enough oil when brushing the empanadas, resulting in a dry or sticking empanada
Not cooking the empanadas over medium-high heat, resulting in a empanada that's not crispy

Variations and Substitutions

Adding diced veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling
Using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella
Adding a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder to the dough for extra flavor
Using leftover chicken or beef for the filling
Making the empanadas in a skillet on the stovetop instead of on the grill
Adding a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top of the empanadas before serving
Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor

What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Empanadas

These grilled chicken empanadas are perfect for serving at a party or gathering, and can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks. Some ideas include a simple green salad, a bowl of spicy tortilla soup, or a plate of crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa. You could also serve them with a cold beer or a glass of wine, or offer a variety of soft drinks like iced tea or lemonade.

One of the best things about empanadas is that they're incredibly versatile, and can be served in a variety of settings. You could serve them as an appetizer or snack, or as a main course with a few sides. You could also customize them to fit your tastes, adding in your favorite fillings or spices to give them a personal touch.

Serve with a simple green saladServe with a bowl of spicy tortilla soupServe with a plate of crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsaServe with a cold beer or a glass of wineServe with a variety of soft drinks, such as iced tea or lemonade

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

These grilled chicken empanadas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. To store them in the refrigerator, simply place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and keep them in the fridge at a temperature of 40 F (4 C) or below. To freeze them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put the sheet in the freezer until the empanadas are frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F (-18 C) or below.

To reheat the empanadas, simply place them on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium heat, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they're crispy and golden brown. You could also reheat them in the oven, baking them at 375 F (190 C) for 10-12 minutes, until they're crispy and golden brown.

When reheating the empanadas, make sure to cook them to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C), to ensure food safety. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or simply make sure the empanadas are hot and steaming.

One of the best things about making empanadas is that they can be made ahead of time, and refrigerated or frozen for later use. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights, or for special occasions like parties or holidays. Simply make the empanadas according to the recipe, and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best for empanadas?

The best type of cheese for empanadas is a melting cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.

Can I make empanadas ahead of time?

Yes, empanadas can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply follow the recipe, and then store the empanadas in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator or freezer.

How do I know when the empanadas are done?

The empanadas are done when they're golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or simply make sure the empanadas are hot and steaming.

Can I use leftover chicken or beef for the filling?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken or beef for the filling. Simply shred or chop the meat, and then mix it with the other filling ingredients according to the recipe.

How do I store empanadas in the freezer?

To store empanadas in the freezer, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put the sheet in the freezer until the empanadas are frozen solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F (-18 C) or below.

Can I make empanadas in a skillet on the stovetop?

Yes, you can make empanadas in a skillet on the stovetop. Simply follow the recipe, and then cook the empanadas in a preheated skillet over medium-high heat, until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C).

How do I reheat empanadas?

To reheat empanadas, simply place them on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium heat, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they're crispy and golden brown. You could also reheat them in the oven, baking them at 375 F (190 C) for 10-12 minutes, until they're crispy and golden brown.

Can I customize the filling to my tastes?

Yes, you can customize the filling to your tastes. Simply add your favorite ingredients to the filling mixture, and then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card