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Easy Handheld Savory Empanadas for Social Gatherings

A stack of golden-brown baked empanadas, one showing a shredded chicken filling, perfect for easy military spouse appetizers.
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Prepare these simple, handheld savory empanadas for your next gathering. They are easy to assemble, perfect for mingling, and offer a sophisticated look for party finger foods.

Ingredients

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  • 1 package (10 count) refrigerated pie crusts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, cilantro, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for 3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  4. Unroll the pie crusts. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough. You should get about 5 circles per crust. Reroll scraps as needed.
  5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling slightly off-center on each dough circle.
  6. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges with a fork to seal them securely. This keeps them neat for serving.
  7. Place the assembled empanadas on the prepared baking sheets. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash.
  8. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown. Serve warm.

Notes

  • You can assemble these make ahead party snacks up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and add 5 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • For a quick charcuterie board ideas addition, serve these alongside a simple sour cream dip or salsa.
  • If you do not have pre-made pie crusts, you can use store-bought puff pastry for a flakier texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/easy-military-spouse-appetizers/