Cheesiest Fried Chicken Empanadas with Queso Dip

Crispy, golden perfection meets gooey, cheesy indulgence with these Cheesiest Fried Chicken Empanadas with Queso Dip. Packed with a savory blend of shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, and a touch of heat from jalapeños, these empanadas deliver a mouthwatering explosion of flavor in every bite. The buttery, flaky empanada shell is fried to a stunning crunch and pairs irresistibly with the creamy, melty queso dip made with a Mexican cheese blend and a hint of spice. Whether you're hosting a game-day gathering or craving an elevated snack, these empanadas are a show-stopping treat that's easy to make and even easier to devour. Serve warm with queso dip and a sprinkle of diced tomatoes for a vibrant, savory masterpiece. Perfect for lovers of fried snacks, cheese-heavy recipes, and bold Tex-Mex flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 2 cups Cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons Diced jalapeños
• 4 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 10 pieces Empanada dough discs (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 cups Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups Whole milk
• 1 cup Shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 0.25 cup Diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, cream cheese, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 2

Lay out empanada dough discs on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken and cheese mixture in the center of each disc.

Step 3

Fold the empanada dough in half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together gently, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Step 4

In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 5

Carefully add the empanadas to the hot oil in batches, frying each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 6

To make the queso dip, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.

Step 7

Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Mexican cheese blend until fully melted and smooth.

Step 9

Serve the fried empanadas warm with the queso dip on the side. Garnish the dip with diced tomatoes if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2769.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	11040.5

Total Fat 999.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 250.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Cholesterol 1098.6mg	0%
Sodium 7226.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 258.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.4g	0%
Total Sugars 34.1g
Protein 317.4g	0%

Vitamin D 216.8IU	0%
Calcium 4109.1mg	0%
Iron 21.8mg	0%
Potassium 2635.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 79.6%

Protein: 11.2%

Carbs: 9.2%