Introduction to Creamy Chicken Empadão (Brazilian Chicken Pie)
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of home-cooked meals fills the air! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Chicken Empadão, a delightful Brazilian chicken pie that’s sure to warm your heart. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet impressive. With its flaky crust and rich, creamy filling, it’s a meal that brings family and friends together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Empadão
This Creamy Chicken Empadão is not just a dish; it’s a hug in pie form! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when time is tight. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, this pie will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Empadão
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Creamy Chicken Empadão. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your flaky crust, giving it that perfect texture.
- Unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed, it adds richness and helps create a tender crust.
- Large egg: This binds the dough together and gives it a lovely golden color when baked.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors of the crust and filling.
- Cold water: Just enough to bring the dough together; it’s essential for the right consistency.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle flavor to the filling.
- Onion: Finely chopped, it brings sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Garlic: Minced, it adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they provide moisture and a burst of flavor.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The star of the show! Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience.
- Chicken broth: This adds richness to the filling, making it creamy and flavorful.
- Cream cheese: Or requeijão, it gives the filling its signature creaminess.
- Heavy cream: This enhances the richness and smooth texture of the filling.
- Corn and peas (optional): These add a pop of color and sweetness, making the dish even more delightful.
- Paprika and dried oregano: These spices bring warmth and a hint of earthiness to the filling.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, it adds a fresh touch and brightens the flavors.
- Egg yolk: For brushing on top, it gives the crust a beautiful golden finish.
- Extra cream cheese (optional): Spread on top for an extra creamy layer if you’re feeling indulgent!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Empadão
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this delicious Creamy Chicken Empadão! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering pie in no time.
Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. This is the foundation of your flaky crust.
Next, cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs, like sandy beach pebbles.
Then, add the egg and just enough cold water to bring the dough together. It should be soft but not sticky.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out later.
Make the Filling
While the dough chills, let’s whip up the filling! Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. The aroma will make your kitchen feel like a cozy café!
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. This adds a juicy base to your filling.
Now, mix in the shredded chicken and chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Next, stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. This is where the magic happens, creating that creamy texture we all love.
Finally, fold in the corn, peas, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the filling cool before assembling the pie.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the pie dish. Grease a round pie dish to prevent sticking.
Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface. Line the pie dish with it, letting the excess hang over the edges.
Pour the creamy chicken filling evenly into the crust. It’s like a warm hug waiting to be wrapped up!
Roll out the second disc of dough and cover the filling. Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork.
Brush the top with egg yolk for that golden finish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, spread a thin layer of cream cheese on top!
Bake the Empadão
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes. You want the crust to be golden brown and crisp.
Once it’s done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the filling intact, making for a beautiful presentation.
And there you have it! Your Creamy Chicken Empadão is ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Chill your butter and dough for a flakier crust.
- Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for a quick filling.
- Don’t skip the resting time; it helps the dough relax.
- Experiment with spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Let the pie cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large one for combining ingredients; a smaller bowl works too.
- Pastry cutter or fork: For cutting in the butter; your fingers can do the job as well.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough; a wine bottle can work in a pinch!
- Pie dish: A round one is ideal; any oven-safe dish will suffice.
- Skillet: For sautéing the filling; a saucepan can be used too.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a hearty vegetarian empadão.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a kick of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar into the filling for an extra cheesy experience.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious pie.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil in the filling for a burst of fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Creamy Chicken Empadão with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up any delicious filling that spills out.
- A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- For a festive touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Empadão
What is Creamy Chicken Empadão?
Creamy Chicken Empadão, or Brazilian Chicken Pie, is a savory pie filled with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices, all encased in a flaky crust. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Empadão ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie in advance and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Empadão?
This delightful pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A chilled glass of white wine also complements the flavors beautifully, making for a complete meal.
Can I customize the filling for Creamy Chicken Empadão?
Is Creamy Chicken Empadão suitable for gluten-free diets?
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Chicken Empadão is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. The joy of rolling out the dough, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, and the anticipation of that first slice are all part of the experience. This Brazilian chicken pie is a dish that brings people together, sparking laughter and conversation around the table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, each bite is a reminder of the love and care that goes into home-cooked meals. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures!
Print
Creamy Chicken Empadão: Discover This Delightful Recipe!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Chicken Empadão is a delightful Brazilian chicken pie featuring a flaky crust and a rich, creamy filling made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
- 200 g (7 oz) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp cold water (as needed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 500 g (1 lb) cooked shredded chicken
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120 g) cream cheese (or requeijão, Brazilian cream cheese spread)
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (100 g) corn kernels (optional)
- ½ cup (100 g) peas (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- Extra cream cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg and just enough cold water to bring dough together.
- Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes, cook until softened.
- Stir in shredded chicken and broth. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Mix in cream cheese, heavy cream, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in corn, peas, and parsley. Let filling cool before assembling.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round pie dish.
- Roll out one dough disc, line the pie dish.
- Add chicken filling evenly.
- Roll out second dough disc, cover the filling, seal edges.
- Brush with egg yolk for a golden finish.
- Optional: spread a thin layer of cream cheese on top.
- Bake 40–50 minutes until crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to keep filling intact.
Notes
- For a spicier filling, add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
- This pie can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
