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Brazilian-style empadão with chicken is a hearty and delicious dish that combines a flaky crust with a savory chicken filling. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a taste of Brazil’s rich culinary tradition. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own empadão at home.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of cold water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup of cream cheese or ricotta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Preparing the Dough
Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead lightly, form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Making the Chicken Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant. Add chopped bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling the Empadão
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your baking dish. Place the dough into the dish, pressing it into the corners. Pour the chicken filling over the crust. Roll out remaining dough and cover the filling. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
Baking and Finishing
Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust for a golden finish. Cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy Your Empadão!
This Brazilian-style chicken empadão is perfect served with a fresh salad or a side of rice. Its rich flavors and flaky crust make it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy cooking and sharing this authentic dish!