Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering Spanish-inspired dish that's about to become your new obsession! These Air Fryer Chicken Crispanadas are not just another empanada - they're a crispy, golden-brown explosion of flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine biting into a perfectly crisp exterior that gives way to a juicy, spice-packed chicken filling that dances on your palate - all without the guilt of deep-frying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 large empanada dough circles
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of ground chicken, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, 1/2 cup of chopped onion, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 4 large empanada dough circles, and 1 beaten egg for the egg wash.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the chicken with a spatula until it is fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the chili powder and cumin to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to meld with the chicken mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- While the chicken mixture is cooling, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- On a clean surface, lay out the empanada dough circles. Spoon an equal amount of the chicken mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges.
- Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg to help seal the empanadas. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, and use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and to ensure they are sealed properly.
- Once all the empanadas are assembled, lightly brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish during cooking.
- Carefully place the empanadas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook the empanadas in the air fryer for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove the empanadas from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Air Fryer Chicken Crispanadas warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as salsa or guacamole. Enjoy your delicious Spanish-inspired meal!
Tips
- Ensure your ground chicken is fully cooked and crumbled into small pieces for the best texture.
- Don't overfill your empanadas - leaving a border helps them seal properly and prevents filling from leaking.
- Brush the empanadas with egg wash generously for that gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can prevent proper crisping.
- Let the empanadas rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the filling to set and prevent burning your mouth.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spice combinations like smoked paprika or adding a touch of garlic powder.
- Use fresh, high-quality empanada dough for the best texture and taste.
- If you don't have an air fryer, these can also be baked in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
