Filipino Chicken Empanada Recipe – Crispy, Savory, and Easy to Make

Introduction to Filipino Chicken Empanada Recipe

Filipino chicken empanadas are one of the most beloved hand-held snacks in the Philippines. These golden pockets are filled with seasoned chicken, vegetables, and sometimes hard-boiled eggs, all tucked inside a flaky, buttery crust. Whether served as a merienda (snack) or light meal, their crispy texture and savory filling make them irresistible to locals and newcomers alike.

This Filipino chicken empanada recipe offers a step-by-step guide to help you recreate the authentic flavors of this classic dish right in your own kitchen. You’ll learn the exact ingredients, dough method, filling techniques, and cooking tips to get the crust crisp and the filling perfectly balanced.

For more comforting Filipino favorites, try our How to Cook Soft Fluffy Jasmine Rice Perfectly or the rich and satisfying Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes — perfect pairings with empanadas on the side.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Authentic Filipino Chicken Empanadas

Essential ingredients for the dough and filling

A Filipino chicken empanada recipe uses basic yet flavorful ingredients, ideal for home cooking. The dish is made up of two main components: the dough and the savory chicken filling.

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If you’re experimenting with textures and doughs, our No-Bake Coconut Cream Pie is another good example of balancing soft and rich textures.

How to Make the Perfect Empanada Dough

Step-by-step guide to making flaky empanada dough

The success of any Filipino chicken empanada recipe depends heavily on the dough. It should be buttery, slightly sweet, and tender enough to bite through without falling apart. Follow these steps for reliable results every time:

1. Prepare the dry mix: In a large bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ tsp of salt, and 2 tbsp of sugar. Mix well.
2. Cut in the butter: Add 1 cup of chilled, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to break the butter into the flour until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is cold butter—it helps create layers when baked or fried.
3. Add wet ingredients: Whisk 1 egg yolk with ⅓ cup of ice-cold water. Gradually pour the mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a fork.
4. Form the dough: Once the mixture comes together, use your hands to knead it gently until it forms a soft ball. Avoid overworking it.
5. Chill the dough: Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll and prevents shrinking during cooking.

This dough will give your Filipino chicken empanadas that signature flaky crust. For a quick guide to baking prep, see our Pumpkin Protein Pancakes dough-mixing tips, or get more dessert crust inspiration from the Double Coconut Cream Pie post.

Tips for achieving the right dough texture

1. Always use cold ingredients. From butter to water, cold temps prevent the fat from melting too soon, helping your dough puff slightly when cooked.
2. Avoid over-kneading. The more you knead, the tougher the dough gets. Keep it minimal—just enough to bring it together.
3. Rest time matters. Refrigerating the dough helps relax the gluten and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this.
4. Roll evenly. Keep the thickness consistent (about ⅛ inch) to ensure uniform cooking.

If you’re new to pastry-making, this step is similar to dough used in Sweet Potato Bread where hydration and temperature balance are crucial. Even beginners can master it with a little practice.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Traditional ingredients in Filipino empanada filling

The heart of every Filipino chicken empanada recipe lies in its filling. A flavorful, juicy mixture of chicken, vegetables, and seasonings is what gives this dish its charm. Filipino-style empanadas are known for their balance—savory with a hint of sweetness from raisins or carrots.

Here’s a standard list of ingredients used in the filling:

• Chicken: 1 to 2 cups of shredded breast or thigh (pre-cooked)
• Potatoes: Diced into small cubes
• Carrots: Diced finely
• Green peas: Optional but adds texture
• Raisins: For a sweet contrast (optional but traditional)
• Onion and garlic: The flavor base
• Soy sauce, salt, black pepper: Essential for seasoning
• Oil: For sautéing

Some cooks add a bit of sugar to complement the raisins. Others include hard-boiled eggs or even a bit of grated cheese for a richer bite. The idea is to make the mixture flavorful enough to stand out, even within a buttery crust.

For more tasty Filipino comfort dishes, check out our Vegan Banana Nut Blondies as a dessert pairing or try this savory Sweet Potato Bread that’s great with a warm empanada.

Cooking and seasoning the chicken properly

1. Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, and cook until translucent.
2. Add vegetables: Stir in carrots and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes or until slightly softened.
3. Add chicken and seasoning: Mix in the shredded chicken and pour 1–2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well.
4. Incorporate sweet notes: Toss in raisins if using. Let the filling simmer for another 3–4 minutes until well combined.
5. Cool the mixture: Let the cooked filling cool completely before assembling your empanadas. A warm filling will soften the dough and cause tearing.

When using this part of your Filipino chicken empanada recipe, keep in mind that texture matters as much as flavor. Aim for small, uniform pieces so the filling fits easily and evenly inside the dough.

This filling is also a great base for other snacks or pastries. If you enjoy Asian-fusion creations, you might love our Chinese Bakery Fruit Sponge Cake or try the savory crunch of Kue Kastengel Cheese Tarts.

Assembling the Empanadas Like a Pro

Filling, folding, and sealing techniques

Once your dough is chilled and your filling is cooled, it’s time for the most hands-on part of the Filipino chicken empanada recipe: assembly. This step determines both the appearance and final texture of your empanadas.

Here’s how to assemble them properly:

1. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough to about ⅛-inch thick. Use a 4 to 5-inch round cutter or a bowl to make uniform circles.
2. Spoon the filling: Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Don’t overfill to avoid tearing.
3. Fold and seal: Fold the dough over to form a half-moon. Press edges gently with your fingers to seal. Then, use the back of a fork to crimp the edges or pinch and twist to make a traditional rope seal.
4. Vent the top (optional): If baking, poke a small hole or make tiny slits to allow steam to escape.

If you’re new to baking pastries, don’t worry—this Filipino chicken empanada recipe breaks the steps down in a way that’s easy to follow. Each technique improves with repetition, and your folds and crimps will look better every time.

Pro Tip: Lightly wet the dough edges with water before folding to improve the seal. Avoid greasy hands while handling dough, as it makes sealing harder.

Once you get used to the folding motion, assembly becomes quick and satisfying. The crisp golden shell that forms during cooking depends on this step being airtight.

Looking for more hand-crafted recipes? Our Chinese Bakery Fruit Sponge Cake is another baked treat requiring careful prep, while the Kue Kastengel Cheese Tarts offer a savory snack with a delightful crunch.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even seasoned cooks make mistakes when assembling empanadas. Here’s how to avoid the most common ones:

• Tearing the dough: This happens when the dough is too thin or the filling is too hot. Always cool your filling and keep the dough at the right thickness.
• Overfilling: Too much filling leads to bursting during frying or baking. Stick to 1–2 tablespoons per empanada.
• Poor sealing: If your edges aren’t sealed tight, the filling may leak. Wet the edge lightly with water or egg wash and press firmly.
• Sticky dough: If the dough becomes sticky, refrigerate it again for 10–15 minutes. Soft dough is hard to shape and more prone to tearing.
• Uneven cooking: Make sure all empanadas are uniform in size and thickness to cook evenly, whether you fry or bake.

This part of the Filipino chicken empanada recipe might take some practice, but getting it right makes all the difference in taste and texture. Good sealing ensures that the savory filling stays inside and the crust stays flaky and golden.

Cooking Methods – Baked vs Fried Empanadas

Should empanadas be baked or fried?

One of the most common questions when following a Filipino chicken empanada recipe is whether to bake or fry them. The answer depends on personal preference—but both methods offer a crispy and flavorful result when done right.

Frying is the traditional method in many Filipino households. The empanadas are deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown, which results in a rich, flaky crust that almost melts in your mouth. The hot oil seals in the filling and creates that iconic crunch. If you’re after authenticity, frying is the way to go.

Baking, on the other hand, is a healthier alternative. When brushed with egg wash, baked empanadas turn a beautiful golden hue while still delivering a crisp bite. The dough retains its structure better, and you skip the mess and excess oil.

This Filipino chicken empanada recipe works beautifully with either method. Frying brings out a more indulgent flavor, while baking gives you a cleaner, lighter finish without losing the delicious texture.

Pros and cons at a glance:

Method	Pros	Cons
Fried	Crispier crust, traditional flavor	More oil, higher calories
Baked	Healthier, less oily, easy cleanup	Slightly less flaky texture

If you’re craving a soft but structured dough similar to baked empanadas, try our Soft and Fluffy Amish White Bread. For something heartier, this Pancake Breakfast Casserole gives a satisfying savory fix as well.

Best practices for each cooking method

For frying:

• Use a deep pot with neutral oil (vegetable or canola) heated to 350°F.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
• Drain on paper towels immediately to remove excess oil.

For baking:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush each empanada with egg wash (1 beaten egg with a splash of milk).
• Bake on a lined sheet for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

No matter which method you choose for your Filipino chicken empanada recipe, consistency is key. Even sealing, even filling, and proper heat all ensure a perfect bite every time. Whether you prefer a healthier option or the classic fried texture, this recipe delivers both.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Empanadas

How long are Filipino chicken empanadas good for?

Proper storage can extend the freshness and taste of your homemade empanadas. A well-prepared Filipino chicken empanada recipe results in snacks that are perfect for making ahead. When stored correctly, they hold up beautifully for several days.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Room Temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container. Best for baked empanadas.
• Refrigerated: 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to avoid sogginess.
• Frozen (uncooked or cooked): Up to 2 months. Wrap individually in parchment or foil, then seal in a freezer-safe bag.

To freeze uncooked empanadas from your Filipino chicken empanada recipe, assemble as usual, place them on a tray, freeze until firm, and transfer to bags. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to your bake or fry time.

Looking for more baked and stored snack options? Check out our Garlic Bread Rolls that stay fresh even when frozen, or enjoy the chewy sweetness of this classic Easy Nian Gao Recipe.

Reheating without losing crispness

Reheating is a critical step in maintaining the flaky, crisp shell of your Filipino chicken empanadas. Whether baked or fried, here’s how to reheat them while preserving their texture.

If you’re revisiting this Filipino chicken empanada recipe days after making it, the right reheating method can bring it back to life:

1. Oven Method (Best for crispiness):
   • Preheat to 350°F.
   • Place empanadas on a baking tray.
   • Bake for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.
2. Air Fryer:
   • Preheat to 325°F.
   • Air fry for 5–8 minutes, checking midway.
3. Stovetop (for fried empanadas):
   • Use a non-stick skillet on medium heat.
   • Heat empanadas for 2–3 minutes per side without adding oil.
4. Avoid microwaves if you want to keep that flaky crust. Microwaving causes the dough to become rubbery and limp.

Reheating tips like these apply to many snack recipes, including sticky, dense pastries such as our Nian Gao or freezer-friendly savory sides like Garlic Bread Rolls.

Your Filipino chicken empanada recipe becomes even more practical when you can store and reheat it confidently—making it a perfect addition to weekly meal prep or potluck menus.

Serving and Enjoying Your Empanadas

Filipino-style dipping sauces and pairings

One of the best parts of any Filipino chicken empanada recipe is how versatile the final dish is when it comes to serving. These empanadas are delicious on their own, but adding the right sauce or side takes them to the next level.

Popular Filipino dipping sauces:

• Spiced vinegar (sukang maanghang): A classic pairing for fried empanadas. Add minced garlic and chopped chilies for a kick.
• Banana ketchup: Slightly sweet and tangy, this Filipino staple complements the savory chicken filling perfectly.
• Garlic mayo or aioli: Great with baked empanadas, especially when paired with cheese-filled variations.

Perfect side pairings:

• A side of jasmine rice or egg fried rice
• A fresh cucumber salad with vinegar dressing
• Sautéed greens like kangkong (water spinach) or bok choy

These additions round out the meal and give your Filipino chicken empanadas a balanced, satisfying edge. For more Filipino-style side dish inspiration, check out our Fortune Cookies From Scratch as a fun treat to end your meal, or try something totally unexpected like Fried Chicken Ice Cream.

Where are empanadas eaten around the world?

Empanadas are enjoyed globally, and each region has its twist. While the Filipino chicken empanada recipe has a unique sweetness and crispness, you’ll find regional cousins from South America to Asia.

Here are just a few examples:

• Argentina: Beef empanadas with olives, hard-boiled eggs, and spices.
• Spain: Baked empanadas filled with tuna, tomatoes, and onions.
• Mexico: Sweet empanadas with fruit or custard fillings.
• Indonesia: Pastel goreng, similar to empanadas, filled with vermicelli and vegetables.
• Philippines: Filipino chicken empanadas stand out for their buttery crust and mildly sweet filling—a delicious mix of Spanish influence and local taste.

Empanadas adapt to local palates, but the core idea remains—portable, flavorful pastry pockets made with love. The growing popularity of the Filipino chicken empanada recipe in food blogs and social platforms shows just how far this humble snack has traveled.

Whether you’re pairing them with a nostalgic dessert like our Fortune Cookies or surprising guests with Fried Chicken Ice Cream afterward, you can serve Filipino empanadas any time of day.

FAQs About Filipino Chicken Empanada Recipe

Conclusion: Make the Filipino Chicken Empanada Recipe at Home with Confidence

Mastering a Filipino chicken empanada recipe at home is easier than it seems. With a few pantry staples, simple prep, and the right steps for dough, filling, and assembly, you can create these crispy, flavorful hand pies anytime. Whether you bake or fry them, each bite offers a satisfying contrast of buttery crust and savory chicken filling with subtle sweetness.

Now that you know how to make empanada dough from scratch, season and cook the chicken properly, and store leftovers without sacrificing quality, you’re ready to make a batch your family will request again and again. Filipino chicken empanadas are perfect for potlucks, picnics, lunchboxes, or even as freezer-friendly snacks.

This tried-and-tested Filipino chicken empanada recipe is more than just a snack—it’s a staple in Filipino cuisine that you can make your own. Adjust the filling, try different cooking methods, and serve it up with your favorite sides.

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