Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, delightful textures, and a touch of creamy zest, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe. These empanadas boast a golden, flaky crust enclosing a luscious blend of tender ground chicken, smoky chipotle spices, and gooey melted cheese. Paired with a cool, tangy avocado lime sauce, this recipe transforms a simple dinner into a festive experience that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re new to empanadas or a seasoned fan, this dish promises a mouthwatering combination you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Thankfully, everything you’ll need is simple, fresh, and thoughtfully chosen to create a harmony of taste, texture, and color. Each component works together to give you that authentic, satisfying empanada experience from crust to sauce.

• Frozen puff pastry (17oz/2 sheets): This makes for a flaky and irresistible outer crust without extra fuss.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sauté onions and add a silky richness to the filling.
• White onion (1/2, thinly sliced): Offers a sweet and slightly sharp base flavor.
• Ground chicken (1 pound): The star protein, tender and perfect for soaking up spices.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
• Mexican oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Adds earthy and warm herbal notes; Italian oregano works in a pinch.
• Chipotle sauce or chopped chipotles (1/3 cup or 3 chipotles): Brings smoky heat and depth, key for that zesty kick.
• Tomato sauce (2/3 cup): Provides a tangy balance and helps bind the filling.
• Lime juice (from 1/2 lime): Brightens the filling with citrusy freshness.
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend (1 cup): Melts into gooey goodness, making the filling decadently cheesy.
• Egg (1, beaten): Used to brush the dough for a gorgeous golden finish when baked.
• Avocado (1 large): The base for a creamy sauce that cools down the heat perfectly.
• Mexican crema or sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a slight tang to the avocado sauce.
• Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Brings an herbaceous brightness to the sauce.
• Lime zest (1 teaspoon): Lifts the sauce with an additional burst of citrus aroma.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): Balances and rounds out the creamy sauce flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium pan over medium-low heat. Add your thinly sliced white onions and gently sauté them for about 7 minutes until they become soft and translucent, releasing their subtle sweetness. Then, introduce the ground chicken to the pan, cooking it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink. Season with salt and Mexican oregano to develop a flavorful foundation that the rest of the ingredients will build upon.

Step 2: Add the Zesty Chipotle and Tomato Sauce

Next, stir in the chipotle sauce or finely chopped chipotles along with the tomato sauce. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens enough to coat your spoon nicely. This step infuses smoky heat and tang, essential to the signature zestiness in this Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow the filling to cool for about 5 minutes, making it easier to handle when assembling.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry Circles

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray. Unfold your thawed puff pastry sheets and cut out 4-inch circles. Don’t worry if your first cuts don’t use all the dough; you can gather the scraps, roll them out again, and cut more circles to maximize your pastry.

Step 4: Assemble the Empanadas

Take each dough circle and place a generous spoonful of the cooled chicken-chipotle filling in the center. Sprinkle it with shredded Mexican cheese to guarantee that irresistible melty surprise inside. Wet the edges of the puff pastry circles with a little water, then carefully fold each circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges firmly by pressing down with a fork to prevent any filling from escaping during baking. Finally, brush the tops with beaten egg to give your empanadas that beautiful golden color once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled empanadas in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and gloriously golden. The kitchen fills with an amazing aroma that’s both comforting and exciting—just right for serving warm and fresh.

Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce

While the empanadas bake, get started on the sauce. In a bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth and creamy. Stir in the Mexican crema or sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice. Season with salt to your preference. This luscious avocado lime sauce provides a cool, tangy contrast that balances perfectly with the spicy chipotle filling, completing the experience in a sensational way.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving presentation, consider topping each empanada with a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro or a pinch of finely chopped green onions. A light drizzle of the avocado lime sauce on top can add both visual appeal and an extra layer of creaminess right where it’s needed most. These simple garnishes invite your guests to dig in with anticipation.

Side Dishes

Complement these empanadas with fresh, crunchy sides. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds refreshing brightness, or serve alongside Mexican street corn (elote) for a flavorful, cheesy, smoky delight. Black bean salad or rice seasoned with lime and cilantro also pairs beautifully, rounding out a colorful and hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe up a notch by presenting them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of assorted salsas, guacamole, and pickled jalapeños. For parties, arrange mini empanadas on a tiered platter for a fun finger-food display. Wrapping each empanada in parchment paper tied with a colorful string also makes for a charming individual serving that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain their crispness, avoid covering them with foil or plastic wrap directly, which can trap moisture and soften the crust. When ready to enjoy, reheat as described below to revive their flaky texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked empanadas by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you want to indulge, simply bake from frozen—adding a few extra minutes to the baking time ensures a crispy crust and thoroughly heated filling.

Reheating

For best results, reheat empanadas in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the dough soggy and chewy, dulling the delightful texture that makes these empanadas so special.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even pulled pork are excellent alternatives that pair wonderfully with the chipotle and cheese filling. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure your meat is fully cooked and flavorful.

Is it possible to make the empanadas vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Swap ground chicken for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or a mix of roasted vegetables. Use vegan cheese and substitute the puff pastry with an all-vegan dough option. For the sauce, replace Mexican crema with cashew cream or a plant-based yogurt.

Can these empanadas be fried instead of baked?

They can, but baking is recommended for a crisp yet lighter result and easier cleanup. Frying yields a richer and greasier empanada, which some prefer, but it requires more attention to avoid burning and excess oil absorption.

What can I do if I don’t have puff pastry?

You can use a ready-made pie crust or phyllo dough, but the texture will differ. Puff pastry’s flaky layers are unique and hard to replicate; however, these substitutions still deliver tasty results. Just be gentle when folding and sealing to avoid cracking.

How spicy are these empanadas?

The chipotle brings a smoky heat that’s noticeable but balanced by the creamy avocado lime sauce. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chipotle amount or opt for a chipotle sauce with lower heat. For a fiery variation, add extra chipotle or fresh jalapeños to the filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about biting into these Cheesy Baked Chicken Empanadas with Zesty Chipotle Filling and Avocado Lime Sauce Recipe—the crispy, buttery crust gives way to a perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and cheesy delights, highlighted by a luscious creamy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party treat to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a charming celebration of flavor and ease. Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite comfort food obsession!

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