Empada de Frango com Requeijão (Chicken and Cream Cheese Pie): A Delicious Recipe
If you’re looking for a tasty and comforting dish, Empada de Frango com Requeijão is a fantastic choice! This Brazilian pie, filled with chicken and creamy cheese, is a beloved treat that holds a special place in Brazilian cuisine. Often served at family gatherings and parties, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a symbol of hospitality and warmth.
Did you know that Empada de Frango comes from the Portuguese word “empada,” which means ‘pie’? These savory pies have been enjoyed for centuries and are often made with various fillings. The combination of chicken and requeijão (a type of cream cheese) offers a delightful taste that many people adore. This recipe is popular because it’s delicious, easy to make, and can be enjoyed hot or cold!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Cold water | 1/4 cup |
| Shredded cooked chicken | 2 cups |
| Requeijão (cream cheese) | 1 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and softened butter until crumbly. Add the eggs and cold water, then knead until a smooth dough forms. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Make the filling: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until golden brown. Add the shredded chicken, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cream cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the requeijão until everything is well combined. Let the filling cool.
- Assemble the empada: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out half of the dough and line a pie dish. Fill it with the chicken and cream cheese mixture.
- Cover the pie: Roll out the remaining dough to cover the top. Seal the edges by pressing them together. Make small slits on the top for steam to escape.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Use leftover chicken: This recipe is a great way to use leftover roasted chicken or even store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Try different fillings: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients such as cheese or vegetables for a unique twist!
- Don’t overwork the dough: Mixing too much can make it tough. Just knead until smooth!
- Check for doneness: The pie should be golden brown on top. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
FAQs
What can I serve with Empada de Frango?
You can serve Empada de Frango with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the meal!
Can I freeze Empada de Frango?
Yes! You can freeze the baked pie or even the unbaked filling. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best taste!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day before and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What is requeijão?
Requeijão is a Brazilian cream cheese that’s creamy and spreadable. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with regular cream cheese.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe is not spicy but feel free to add spices like chili powder or jalapeños if you like some heat!
What type of chicken should I use?
Using shredded cooked chicken is best. You can also use rotisserie or boiled chicken for convenience.
Can I make individual empadas?
Yes! You can make smaller versions using a muffin tin for bite-sized empadas.
What tools do I need to make this dish?
You will need a mixing bowl, skillet, pie dish, rolling pin, and a knife for this recipe.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers or spinach can add flavor and nutrition to the filling.
What is the best way to reheat Empada de Frango?
Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes ensures it stays crispy!
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for Empada de Frango com Requeijão, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This delightful chicken pie is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and the joy of sharing this wonderful Brazilian dish!
