Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri are delightful little pockets filled with savory goodness. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these empanadas are sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken or beef mixed with vibrant vegetables and spices creates a flavor explosion, while the fresh chimichurri sauce adds a zesty kick that elevates each bite. Easy to prepare, they offer versatility for various occasions and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: Each empanada is packed with a delicious mix of chicken or beef and spices.
• Quick Preparation: Using frozen empanada discs saves time without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or a main dish alongside chimichurri sauce.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the filling based on your favorite veggies and spices.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking your empanadas to golden perfection.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is needed for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Fork: Use it to seal the empanadas properly, ensuring no filling escapes during baking.

Ingredients

For the Empanadas:

• 1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen empanada discs
• 1 pound cooked and shredded chicken or beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the cooked chicken or beef, onion, bell pepper, diced green chiles, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

For each empanada disc:
1. Place approximately 1/4 cup of the filling in the center.
2. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges tightly using a fork.

Step 4: Bake

Arrange the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheet:
1. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine parsley, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, red apple vinegar, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your warm Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas alongside chimichurri sauce for dipping. Enjoy this flavorful treat!

How to Serve Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

Serving mini chicken or beef empanadas with chimichurri can elevate your dining experience. These flavorful bites are perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy them fully.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the rich flavors of the empanadas.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado salad adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices in the empanadas.
• Guacamole: Rich guacamole provides additional flavor and pairs well with the chimichurri sauce.

Serve with Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Flavorful cilantro lime rice is a zesty accompaniment that matches perfectly with the empanadas.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add texture and nutrients, enhancing the meal’s appeal.

How to Perfect Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

Perfecting your mini chicken or beef empanadas with chimichurri takes a little practice, but these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible.
• Seal Well: Make sure to seal the empanada edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
• Brush for Shine: Brushing the tops of the empanadas with beaten egg gives them a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix different vegetables or cheeses into your filling for added flavor and variety.
• Serve Warm: Empanadas taste best when served warm; enjoy them fresh from the oven for maximum flavor.
• Customize Your Chimichurri: Adjust the garlic and chili flakes in your chimichurri according to your taste preferences for a personalized kick.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

To create a delightful meal, pairing side dishes with mini chicken or beef empanadas is essential. Here are some excellent options that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Spanish Rice: This seasoned rice dish brings a comforting element that pairs well with savory empanadas.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and enhance the meal’s visual appeal.
3. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad offers protein and fiber, balancing out the richness of the empanadas.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for a fun finger food option alongside your empanadas.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a hearty side that everyone will love.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using wet filling: If your filling is too wet, it can make the dough soggy. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from ingredients like diced green chiles or cooked meat before mixing.

• Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the empanadas tightly can lead to leaking during baking. Use a fork to press down the edges thoroughly and ensure they are completely sealed.

• Skipping egg wash: An egg wash gives the empanadas a beautiful golden brown color. Don’t skip this step; brush the tops with beaten egg before baking for that appealing finish.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many empanadas on one baking sheet can cause uneven cooking. Leave enough space between each empanada so they bake evenly and become crispy.

• Ignoring cooking times: Baking for too long or too short can ruin your empanadas. Keep an eye on them and bake until they’re golden brown, usually 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover empanadas in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

• Place uncooked empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Lightly pan-fry over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri?

Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri are savory pastries filled with shredded chicken or beef and served with a vibrant chimichurri sauce for dipping.

Can I make Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas With Chimichurri ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the empanadas in advance. Store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.

What is chimichurri sauce made of?

Chimichurri sauce is made from fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and spices. It adds a fresh flavor that complements empanadas perfectly.

Can I customize the filling for my Mini Chicken Or Beef Empanadas?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, change seasonings according to your taste, or even use alternative proteins such as turkey or lamb.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Chicken or Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri are deliciously versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether as an appetizer or main dish, they promise satisfaction. Feel free to customize fillings and sauces based on your preferences!