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Golden Stuffed Pockets with Ingredients: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection


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  • Author: Annabel
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 10 pockets

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

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add minced onion, red bell pepper, and yellow/orange bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add shredded chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly.
  5. Sprinkle in chicken bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir well to combine.
  6. Add tomato paste and mix until evenly distributed. Let the filling cook for 5 more minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Pockets

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lay empanada dough shells on a clean surface.
  3. Spoon 2 tablespoons of chicken filling into the center of each dough shell.
  4. Fold the dough in half to create a half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
  5. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and secure the filling inside.

Step 3: Apply the Egg Wash

  1. In a small bowl, beat the egg.
  2. Brush the egg wash lightly over the top of each pocket.

Step 4: Bake the Pockets

  1. Arrange the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
  3. 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