Picture this: warm, golden pockets of gluten free goodness, fresh from the oven, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of melted cheese and tender chicken mingled with a hint of cumin and sautéed peppers. The satisfying crunch as you bite into these empanadas gives way to a rich, savory filling that melts in your mouth, making every nibble pure comfort. Whether you’re serving them for a quick snack, dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is your new best friend for impressively delicious gluten free treats that come together quicker than you’d expect!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Ready in 55 minutes: From start to finish, these empanadas fit perfectly into busy days when you want something homemade without the wait.
Uses simple ingredients: You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items—just some basic staples and wholesome fillings you probably already have.

Perfect for beginners: Even if you’re new to gluten free baking or empanada making, the step-by-step process is straightforward and foolproof.
Impressive presentation: Golden, flaky empanadas that look gourmet and taste like you spent hours preparing them—just imagine the compliments!
Customizable: Love spice? More cheese? Swap the chicken for veggies or beef; this recipe welcomes your creativity.

Why This Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe Works

The magic behind these empanadas begins with the dough—a perfect balance of gluten free flour and cold butter creates a tender, flaky crust that holds its shape beautifully without crumbling. Gradually adding cold water ensures the dough stays moist but firm enough to roll out smoothly. The filling is a harmonious blend of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and shredded chicken spiced subtly with cumin, bringing warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate cheese melt. Using an egg wash before baking gives these empanadas their signature golden sheen and slight crisp, making each bite an irresistible texture and flavor experience.

Large white rectangular platter filled with a full batch of golden-brown baked empanadas, each perfectly sealed with crimped edges and lightly sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley, showcasing crispy and shiny crusts with a slight glisten from brushing, arranged neatly in rows, entire dish photographed from a 3/4 angle on a white marble countertop, natural lighting, professional food styling photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients brings you just a few steps away from heavenly gluten free empanadas. Each one plays a crucial role in the texture and taste of the final dish.

Gluten-free all-purpose flour: Creates the tender, gluten free crust that holds the filling perfectly.

Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it gives the dough a flaky texture and rich flavor.
Eggs: One for the dough to bind, plus another for a beautiful egg wash glaze.
Cold water: Added gradually to bring the dough together without making it sticky.

Cooked shredded chicken: The hearty, protein-rich filling base.
Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or favorite): Melts into the filling for gooey, savory goodness.
Onions and bell peppers: Sautéed for sweet and savory flavor depth.
Cumin: Optional but highly recommended for a warm, earthy undertone.

Oil for frying: If you prefer crispy fried empanadas instead of baked.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Gluten-free flour: You can use any 1:1 gluten free flour blend, but ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best dough texture.
Butter: Cold coconut oil or dairy-free margarine work great for a dairy-free version.

Chicken: Substitute with cooked ground beef, turkey, or roasted vegetables for vegetarian options.
Cheese: Try pepper jack or a sharp gouda for extra zing, or dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerant guests.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Keep your butter cold: This ensures a flaky, tender crust every time.

Don’t overwork the dough: Mix until just combined for light empanadas.
Rest the dough in the fridge: Chilling tightens gluten free dough and makes rolling easier.
Customize your filling: Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling for the best flavor balance.

Use egg wash generously: It gives that stunning golden color and helps seal the edges.

How to Make Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your gluten free flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and quickly cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat one egg and add it into the bowl, then slowly pour in cold water, mixing gently until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let it firm up and become easier to roll.

💡 Pro Tip: Use ice-cold water and butter straight from the fridge to keep the dough flaky.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onions and bell peppers until soft and fragrant. Toss in the cooked shredded chicken and sprinkle with cumin if using. Stir until everything is evenly combined, remove from heat, then fold in your cheese of choice while the mixture is still warm to let it melt slightly. Allow the filling to cool before assembling.

💡 Pro Tip: Sauté veggies until translucent for a sweeter, richer filling flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Empanadas

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dust a clean surface with gluten free flour and roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each circle, then fold the other half over. Press edges together firmly and seal with a fork or pinch to lock in the filling.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overfill your empanadas to avoid bursting during baking.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Whisk the remaining egg for your egg wash and brush each empanada’s surface generously. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re gorgeously golden brown. For a crispier treat, you can fry them in hot oil until golden instead.

💡 Pro Tip: Use an egg wash to achieve that irresistible, shiny golden crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

Dough too sticky: Means too much water—add a bit more flour gradually to fix texture.
Dough cracking when rolling: Usually from being too cold or dry—let it warm up slightly or add a tiny splash of water.
Overfilling the empanadas: Leads to leakage while baking or frying.

Skipping the egg wash: Results in pale, less appetizing empanadas.
Not allowing filling to cool properly: Causes dough to get soggy and difficult to seal.
Overbaking: Can dry out the crust and filling—watch the clock closely!

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version of this gluten free chicken and cheese empanadas recipe, these variations will bring new excitement to your kitchen adventures:

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Empanadas

Add chipotle powder or a splash of adobo sauce to the filling for a smoky, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with melted cheese.

Vegetarian Spinach and Feta

Swap the chicken for sautéed spinach, garlic, and tangy feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired delight.

BBQ Pulled Pork and Cheddar

For meat lovers, shredded barbecue pork with sharp cheddar makes for a rich, tangy filling packed with flavor.

Mushroom and Goat Cheese

Sauté earthy mushrooms with herbs and blend in creamy goat cheese—elegant, savory, and naturally gluten free.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean

A hearty, vegan-friendly filling with roasted sweet potatoes and black beans spiced with cumin and chili powder adds warmth and texture.

How to Serve Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe

Single white plate with one golden-brown empanada showing a slight opening that reveals a warm, savory filling of seasoned ground meat mixed with finely chopped vegetables, close-up angle capturing the flaky, crisp pastry layers and a sprinkle of fresh green herbs on top, placed on a white marble surface under natural light, styled as an inviting single serving ready to eat, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. For a little tang, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime.

Side Dishes

Pair your empanadas with a crisp green salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette, or alongside a vibrant tomato salsa for dipping. Rice and beans make a hearty accompaniment perfect for a fuller meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve empanadas in rustic baskets lined with colorful cloth napkins or on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of various dipping sauces like chimichurri, guacamole, or spicy aioli to elevate the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover empanadas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They taste fantastic warmed up and still hold their crispiness.

Freezing

Wrap individual empanadas tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze them on a tray first before transferring to freezer bags to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed frozen empanadas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake these empanadas instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking them at 375°F gives a golden, delicious crust that’s lighter and less greasy than frying.

What gluten free flour works best?

A 1:1 gluten free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum typically yields the best texture for this dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before rolling and assembling.

Is it okay to freeze these empanadas before cooking?

Definitely. Assemble, freeze on a tray, then transfer to bags. Bake or fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, choose your favorites—cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or dairy-free alternatives work wonderfully.

How can I make these empanadas spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix in chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce for your desired heat level.

Are there any vegan adaptations?

Swap butter for coconut oil, eggs with a flax egg for dough, and choose plant-based cheese and filling options.

What’s the best way to seal the edges?

Wet the edges lightly with water, fold dough over the filling, then press with a fork or pinch tightly to prevent filling leaks.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about creating these golden pockets of joy that bring family and friends together around the table. This Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it combines ease, flavor, and a wonderful homemade feeling every single time. Whether for an everyday meal or special occasion, these empanadas are sure to delight your palate and inspire smiles.

Have you tried this Gluten Free Chicken and Cheese Empanadas Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊