A Taste of the Caribbean: Easy Dominican Chicken Empanadas Recipe

The vibrant Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic is not only known for its stunning beaches and infectious music but also for its delicious cuisine. One of the most beloved street foods found on this island is the empanada - a delicious, flaky pastry filled with savory ingredients that are fried to golden perfection. Let's go through the easy steps to make your own Dominican Chicken Empanadas at home.

Chicken Empanadas - Empanadas Dough Recipe

INGREDIENTS

For the Empanada Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp white distilled vinegar
• Approximately 1/2 cup cold water

For the Chicken Filling:

• 3 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, previously poached and shredded
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cubanelle pepper, diced
• 1 plum tomato, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp white distilled vinegar
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 Knorr chicken bouillon cube
• 1 packet sazon seasoning (with coriander and annatto)
• 1/2 cup liquid from poaching the chicken
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Oil for frying

INSTRUCTIONS

Making the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender to cut it into the flour until you have a crumbly mixture.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, vinegar, and enough cold water to form a dough.
3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a dough forms. Knead for about 2 minutes, then wrap in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Chicken Filling:

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, cubanelle pepper, tomato, and garlic with the vinegar until softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and chicken bouillon cube, breaking it down with a spoon. Add the sazon seasoning.
3. Mix in the shredded chicken and pour in the poaching liquid. Cook until the filling thickens slightly. Cool before assembling.

Assembling and Cooking Empanadas:

1. Roll out the chilled dough thinly and cut out rounds using a mold or the rim of a bowl.
2. Place a spoonful of filling on each round, adding cheese if desired. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
3. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on each side, then drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Tip for Poaching Chicken:

In a pot, combine 1 lb chicken breast, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 Knorr chicken bouillon cube, 1 1/2 cups water, and a pinch of salt. Dissolve the bouillon, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 30-45 minutes.

Enjoy your homemade Dominican Chicken Empanadas!

For a visual guide, please visit the video below.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Serve your Dominican Chicken Empanadas hot, accompanied by a side of spicy pico de gallo, a refreshing avocado salad, or a creamy garlic sauce for dipping. These empanadas make perfect appetizers, party snacks, or even a light meal and are sure to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of the Dominican Republic.

CONCLUSION

Dominican Chicken Empanadas are a testament to the Dominican Republic's rich culinary traditions, blending Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences into each delicious bite. Making them at home is not only easy but also a fun way to explore international flavors with friends and family. So next time you're in the mood for something exotic and hearty, remember this recipe and enjoy the taste of the Caribbean in the comfort of your own kitchen. ¡Buen provecho!

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