Chicken empanadas are a culinary delight, a savory pocket of goodness that has captured hearts (and stomachs) across the globe. These golden, crispy pastries filled with seasoned chicken are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. But what elevates the experience from simply enjoyable to truly unforgettable? The answer lies in finding the perfect accompaniments. This comprehensive guide will explore a range of delicious options, ensuring your chicken empanadas are always served with the ideal partners.
The Importance of Complementary Flavors
Before diving into specific pairings, it’s important to understand the principles behind creating a harmonious meal. When choosing what to eat with chicken empanadas, consider the following:
- Contrast and Balance: Seek flavors and textures that contrast with the richness of the empanada filling and the crispiness of the crust. Acidity, freshness, and spice can cut through the richness and create a more balanced eating experience.
- Regional Harmony: Consider the origin of empanadas (primarily Latin America and Spain) and explore pairings that reflect similar culinary traditions. This often results in naturally complementary flavor profiles.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best pairing is the one you enjoy the most! Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations.
Classic Sauces and Dips
Sauces and dips are the most common and arguably the most important accompaniments to chicken empanadas. They add moisture, flavor, and a touch of elegance to the experience.
Salsa Verde: The Zesty Companion
Salsa verde, a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice, is a classic choice for a reason. Its bright acidity and herbaceous notes cut through the richness of the chicken and pastry, creating a refreshing contrast. The slight heat from the jalapeños adds another layer of complexity, making it a truly irresistible pairing.
Chimichurri: A Burst of Freshness
Originating from Argentina, chimichurri is a sauce made from finely chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Its fresh, herbaceous flavor and slightly tangy kick complement the savory chicken filling beautifully. Chimichurri adds a touch of sophistication and elevates the empanada from a simple snack to a gourmet treat.
Aji Amarillo Sauce: A Touch of Peruvian Heat
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, aji amarillo sauce is an excellent choice. Made from the aji amarillo pepper, a staple in Peruvian cuisine, this sauce offers a unique fruity and spicy flavor. The heat is noticeable but not overwhelming, and the fruity notes add a delightful complexity that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Crema: Cool and Creamy Relief
Crema, a type of sour cream common in Latin American cuisine, provides a cool and creamy counterpoint to the savory empanada. Its mild acidity balances the richness of the filling, and its smooth texture adds a luxurious feel. It’s especially effective if your empanadas are a bit spicy.
Spicy Mayo: A Modern Twist
A simple yet effective option is spicy mayo. Combine mayonnaise with your favorite hot sauce (sriracha, gochujang, or a chili garlic sauce all work well) for a creamy, spicy, and tangy dip. The richness of the mayo complements the chicken, while the spice adds a welcome kick.
Side Dishes for a Complete Meal
While sauces and dips enhance the flavor of the empanadas, side dishes can transform them into a complete and satisfying meal.
Rice and Beans: A Latin American Staple
Rice and beans are a quintessential side dish in many Latin American countries, and they pair perfectly with chicken empanadas. Whether it’s black beans, pinto beans, or red beans, the earthy flavors and hearty texture complement the savory filling and crispy crust. Rice, whether white, brown, or flavored with cilantro and lime, provides a neutral base that balances the richness of the empanadas.
Simple Green Salad: A Refreshing Contrast
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing and light contrast to the richness of the empanadas. Choose leafy greens like romaine lettuce, arugula, or spinach, and add some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions for extra flavor and texture. A light vinaigrette, made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs, will cleanse the palate and prepare you for the next bite.
Corn on the Cob: A Sweet and Savory Combination
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summertime side dish that pairs surprisingly well with chicken empanadas. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory filling, and the slightly charred flavor of grilled corn adds a smoky dimension. Consider adding a sprinkle of chili powder or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): An Elevated Experience
For a more decadent corn experience, try elote, also known as Mexican street corn. This dish consists of grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The creamy, cheesy, spicy, and tangy flavors of elote create a complex and satisfying combination that pairs incredibly well with chicken empanadas.
Coleslaw: Crunchy and Tangy
A crisp and tangy coleslaw offers a delightful textural and flavor contrast. The crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich filling and flaky crust of the empanada. Opt for a traditional coleslaw or experiment with variations that include ingredients like pineapple, cilantro, or jalapeños.
Quinoa Salad: A Healthy and Flavorful Option
A quinoa salad is a healthy and flavorful side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to your empanada meal. Combine cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, and dress it with a light vinaigrette or a lemon-herb dressing. The nutty flavor of the quinoa and the freshness of the vegetables create a balanced and satisfying combination.
Beverages to Enhance the Experience
The right beverage can elevate the entire empanada experience. Consider these options:
Refreshing Agua Frescas: A Sweet and Fruity Choice
Agua frescas, light and refreshing fruit-based drinks, are a popular choice in Latin America and pair perfectly with chicken empanadas. Flavors like watermelon, pineapple, hibiscus (jamaica), and horchata (rice milk) offer a sweet and fruity counterpoint to the savory filling and crispy crust.
Iced Tea: A Classic and Versatile Option
Iced tea, whether black, green, or herbal, is a classic and versatile beverage that complements a wide range of foods. Its refreshing and slightly bitter taste cuts through the richness of the empanada, and its simplicity allows the flavors of the food to shine.
Mexican Coke: A Sweet and Bubbly Treat
Mexican Coke, made with real cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup, has a distinctly sweeter and more complex flavor than regular Coke. Its bubbly sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory chicken filling, creating a satisfying and nostalgic combination.
Craft Beer: Hoppy and Refreshing
A crisp, hoppy craft beer can provide a refreshing and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the empanadas. Look for light lagers, pilsners, or IPAs with citrusy or floral notes to complement the savory filling.
Wine: A Sophisticated Pairing
For a more sophisticated pairing, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Their high acidity and citrusy notes will cut through the richness of the empanada and cleanse the palate. A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, can also work well, especially if the empanadas are served with a spicier sauce.
Unique and Unexpected Pairings
Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the traditional and explore some unique and unexpected pairings:
Mango Salsa: A Tropical Twist
Mango salsa, made with diced mangoes, red onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice, offers a sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor explosion that pairs surprisingly well with chicken empanadas. The sweetness of the mango balances the savory filling, while the jalapeños add a welcome kick.
Avocado Crema: Creamy and Indulgent
Avocado crema, a creamy and decadent sauce made from avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro, adds a rich and luxurious element to the empanada experience. Its smooth texture and subtle flavor complement the chicken filling beautifully.
Pickled Onions: Tangy and Crunchy
Pickled onions offer a tangy and crunchy contrast to the rich filling and flaky crust. Their sharp acidity cuts through the richness of the empanadas and adds a refreshing element.
Grilled Pineapple: Sweet and Smoky
Grilled pineapple, with its sweet and smoky flavor, provides a unique and unexpected pairing for chicken empanadas. The caramelized sugars on the grilled pineapple add a depth of flavor that complements the savory filling.
Spicy Pickled Vegetables: A Tangy Kick
Spicy pickled vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or jalapeños offer a tangy, crunchy, and spicy counterpoint to the richness of the empanadas. Their acidity cuts through the richness, while the spice adds a welcome kick.
The Art of Presentation
Presentation is just as important as the food itself. Consider these tips for creating a visually appealing and inviting empanada platter:
- Use a Variety of Colors: Incorporate colorful sauces, side dishes, and garnishes to create a visually appealing display.
- Arrange Artistically: Arrange the empanadas on a platter in an appealing pattern. Consider adding a garnish of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili powder for added visual interest.
- Serve with Style: Use attractive serving dishes and utensils to elevate the dining experience.
- Consider Individual Portions: For a more formal setting, consider serving individual portions of empanadas with their accompanying sauces and side dishes.
Experiment and Discover Your Favorites
Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite pairings is to experiment and try different combinations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore new flavors. With a little experimentation, you’ll discover the perfect accompaniments to make your chicken empanadas truly unforgettable. Remember to consider the balance of flavors and textures, the regional harmony, and most importantly, your own personal preferences. Happy eating!
What are some classic side dishes that complement chicken empanadas?
Empanadas, with their savory filling and flaky crust, pair well with a variety of classic side dishes. Consider options that provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the empanadas, such as a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a vibrant coleslaw. These sides cut through the fattiness and offer a burst of freshness.
Other excellent choices include Spanish rice, offering a comforting and complementary flavor profile, or black beans, providing a hearty and nutritious accompaniment. These options provide a more substantial meal and enhance the overall dining experience. The goal is to choose sides that balance the richness of the empanadas without overwhelming the palate.
Can I pair chicken empanadas with different types of salsas? If so, which ones are best?
Absolutely! Salsas are a fantastic way to elevate the flavor of chicken empanadas. A mild tomato salsa provides a classic and versatile option, offering a touch of acidity and sweetness that complements the savory filling. Alternatively, a spicier salsa verde can add a kick and cut through the richness of the empanada, creating a more complex flavor profile.
For a unique twist, consider a fruit-based salsa, such as mango salsa or pineapple salsa. The sweetness of the fruit provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken and spices, resulting in a refreshing and unexpected combination. Experimenting with different salsas is a great way to personalize your empanada experience and find your perfect pairing.
What drinks pair well with chicken empanadas?
The ideal beverage pairing for chicken empanadas depends on your personal preferences and the overall flavor profile you’re aiming for. A crisp, light beer like a Mexican lager or a pilsner can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the empanadas, while a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a more sophisticated pairing. The acidity of the wine cuts through the fat and cleanses the palate.
Alternatively, non-alcoholic options like iced tea or agua fresca can also be excellent choices. The refreshing qualities of these beverages complement the savory flavors of the empanadas without overpowering them. Consider the spiciness of your empanadas when selecting your drink, opting for something that can either enhance or mellow the heat.
Are there any dipping sauces besides salsa that go well with chicken empanadas?
Yes, there are many dipping sauces beyond salsa that can beautifully complement chicken empanadas. A creamy avocado cilantro sauce is a popular choice, offering a rich and refreshing counterpoint to the savory filling. The creamy texture and bright flavors enhance the overall experience.
Another excellent option is a spicy aioli, providing a tangy and flavorful kick that elevates the empanada to a new level. Consider experimenting with different flavors and textures to find your perfect dipping sauce. The key is to choose a sauce that complements the flavors of the empanada without overpowering them.
What kind of salad is a good accompaniment to chicken empanadas?
A simple green salad is an excellent and refreshing accompaniment to chicken empanadas. Focus on using fresh, crisp greens like romaine or mixed greens as a base. A light vinaigrette dressing, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a balsamic vinaigrette, adds acidity and brightens the palate, cutting through the richness of the empanada.
To enhance the salad further, consider adding some crunchy elements like cucumber, bell peppers, or toasted nuts. These additions provide textural contrast and add another layer of flavor. The goal is to create a salad that is light, refreshing, and complements the savory flavors of the empanadas.
Can I serve chicken empanadas with soup? If so, what kind of soup would be a good match?
Serving chicken empanadas with soup can create a comforting and satisfying meal. A light and brothy soup, such as chicken tortilla soup or a clear vegetable soup, is an excellent choice, as it provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the empanadas. The warmth of the soup complements the savory flavors of the empanadas.
Alternatively, a creamy tomato soup can also be a good match, offering a comforting and complementary flavor profile. However, be mindful of the richness of the soup and choose a lighter version to avoid overwhelming the palate. The key is to select a soup that enhances the overall dining experience without being too heavy or competing with the flavors of the empanadas.
What dessert can I serve after chicken empanadas to complete the meal?
After enjoying savory chicken empanadas, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to complete the meal. Consider options like flan, a creamy caramel custard, which offers a sweet and delicate contrast to the savory flavors. Its smooth texture and rich caramel flavor are a delightful way to end the meal.
Another excellent choice is tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk. The moist and sweet cake provides a satisfyingly sweet ending without being too heavy. Alternatively, fresh fruit with a dollop of whipped cream can also be a simple yet elegant option, offering a refreshing and healthy way to conclude the meal.