Chicken Tinga Empanadas

Chicken Tinga Empanadas - A Delicious Mexican Appetizer
Chicken Tinga Empanadas are a mouth-watering Mexican appetizer that will leave your taste buds craving for more. These empanadas are made with a crispy pastry shell and filled with a spicy and flavorful chicken tinga filling. The dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a party, a family gathering, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:

For the pastry:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the egg wash:

- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the ice water and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the shredded chicken, tomato sauce, chipotle peppers, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Spoon a tablespoon of the chicken tinga filling onto each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
7. Whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the empanadas with the egg wash.
8. Bake the empanadas for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Appearance and Taste:
These Chicken Tinga Empanadas are a perfect combination of crispy pastry and spicy chicken tinga filling. The golden brown color of the empanadas is appetizing and the aroma of the spices is irresistible. The filling is juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of heat and tanginess. The pastry is flaky and buttery, making it a perfect complement to the filling. These empanadas are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
Type of Dish: Mexican Appetizer
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Tomato Sauce, Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce