Description
Golden Stuffed Pockets are crispy, flaky, and packed with a flavorful shredded chicken filling. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or meal, these pockets are simple to prepare and loved by all. Bake them to golden perfection and serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a treat that’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup minced onion
- 1 red bell pepper, minced
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, minced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 empanada dough shells (6-inch rounds)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced onion, red bell pepper, and yellow/orange bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle in chicken bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir well to combine.
- Add tomato paste and mix until evenly distributed. Let the filling cook for 5 more minutes to meld flavors.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Pockets
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay empanada dough shells on a clean surface.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of chicken filling into the center of each dough shell.
- Fold the dough in half to create a half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and secure the filling inside.
Step 3: Apply the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, beat the egg.
- Brush the egg wash lightly over the top of each pocket.
Step 4: Bake the Pockets
- Arrange the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let the pockets cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Filling Options: Swap shredded chicken for ground beef, turkey, or beans for a vegetarian option.
- Cooking Method: Frying instead of baking is an option for a crispier texture. Simply heat oil in a skillet and fry each pocket until golden brown on both sides.
- Storage: Store leftover pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin-inspired