Colombian Chicken Empanadas with Aji Picante Dipping Sauce
These traditional Colombian empanadas are filled with a savory chicken mixture and served with a zesty aji picante sauce.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Chicken Filling
- 1
Heat oil and sauté aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 2
Add onion and garlic
Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- 3
Add chicken and spices
Mix in red bell pepper, shredded chicken, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
- 4
Simmer with broth
Pour in chicken broth; simmer until most of the liquid evaporates.
Tip: Let the chicken mixture cool before filling the empanadas for easier handling.
Preparing the Aji Picante Dipping Sauce
- 1
Combine ingredients
In a blender, combine cilantro, scallions, jalapeño, lime juice, and water.
- 2
Blend until smooth
Blend until smooth; add salt to taste.
- 3
Chill sauce
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
How to Make Colombian Chicken Empanadas with Aji Picante Dipping Sauce
Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Making the Dough
Combine cornmeal, water, vegetable oil, and salt in a bowl; knead to form a smooth dough.
- 2
Filling the Empanadas
Roll out the dough; cut into circles. Place a spoonful of chicken filling on each circle and fold in half, sealing edges with a fork.
- 3
Frying the Empanadas
Heat oil in a deep pan; fry empanadas until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
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