Meals Matter

Cheesiest Fried Chicken Empanadas with Chili Con Queso Dip

Contributed By: gelibeli8
Food Network

Ingredients

3 cups Chopped, cooked chicken, about 4 to 5 chicken breasts

1 (8-ounce) package Shredded colby and Monterey Jack cheese blend

4 ounces Cream cheese, softened

1 Chopped red bell pepper

1 Jalapeno, seeded and chopped

1 tablespoon Ground cumin

1 1/2 teaspoons Salt

1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper

1 (15-ounce) package Refrigerated pie crusts

Water

Preparation

Preheat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl using a rubber spatula, combine the chicken, colby and Monterey cheese, cream cheese, red pepper, jalapeno, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove 1 pie crust from pie tin onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 15-inch circle. Cut out rounds, using a 3-inch cookie cutter. Re-roll dough as needed. Repeat procedure with remaining pie crusts, making 12 to 15 circles total. Arrange 1 round on a clean, flat surface. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of crust with water. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of chicken mixture in the center of the round. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges with a fork to seal. Repeat with the remaining rounds and chicken mixture. Place empanadas in deep-fryer for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown. Top with con queso dip.

Note: Up to this point, the recipe can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month

Chili Con Queso Dip

1 pound package Cheddar (recommended: Velveeta)

1 (16-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles

2 teaspoons hot sauce

In a medium sauce pot, slowly melt Cheddar over medium/low heat. When cheese is fully melted add tomatoes, chiles, and hot sauce, stirring with spoon until combined well.

Pour cheese dip into a small casserole dish and serve as a dip for the cheesy empanadas or pour on top for a real cheesy effect.

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Recipe Details

Total Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients: Chicken & Turkey
Actual Cooking Time: 15 to 30 minutes
Number of Servings: More than 10
Meal Type: Appetizers