Baked Chicken Empanadas with Smoked Paprika

Directions

1. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a large food processor, combine flour, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt. Pulse until well combined.
2. Add butter and pulse until butter is broken up into pieces the size of large peas.
3. Slowly begin to add water, while the mixer or food processor maintains medium speed, just until the dough mixture begins to come together.
4. Turn dough onto a clean floured surface and form into 2 equal-sized disks. Cover in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or up to a week.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cream cheese, cheese, bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, tomato, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir until well combined. Taste for flavor and add more spices or salt if desired.
2. Roll out one of the discs of pie crust on a floured surface to make 1, 15-inch circle. Use a 3-to-4-inch cookie cutter or the mouth of a small bowl to cut out rounds of dough. Re-roll dough scraps and repeat with second disc of dough until you have 18 to 20 rounds for empanada crust.
3. Measure 1 heaping tablespoons of chicken filling and place it on the center of one of the dough rounds. Fold dough in half like a taco and press edges together. Use a fork to crimp edge so empanada stays sealed while baking. Repeat for remaining dough rounds and filling.
4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Whisk together 1 egg white and 1 tablespoon water. Lightly brush surface of each empanada with egg wash and place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 22 to 30 minutes, until empanadas are golden-brown and crispy. (For best results, bake one sheet of empanadas at a time).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

1. Prepare chicken however you like — we recommend sprinkling with sea salt, paprika, Italian seasoning and chili powder, then poaching in a large skillet over medium-low heat for 20 minutes. You can also use rotisserie chicken.
2. Substitute colby jack or Monterey jack cheese for the cheddar, if desired.
3. To save time, consider using 2, 15-ounce packages of refrigerated pie crust instead of making your own.