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Spanish Fried Dough (Pestiños)

Indulge in Irresistibly Crunchy Spanish Fried Dough Pestiños

Delight in Spanish Fried Dough (Pestiños) with their irresistible crunch and savory chicken filling, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Spanish
Servings 4 empanadas
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Pan
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Round Cutter

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can be replaced with gluten-free flour blend
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 cup Butter Use margarine or vegetable shortening for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup Cold Water Use ice-cold for best texture
  • 1 Large Egg Acts as a binding agent

For the Filling

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil
  • 1 medium Onion Use shallots for a milder taste if preferred
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can substitute with garlic powder
  • 1 cup Roasted Red Peppers Use fresh bell peppers if roasting is not an option
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can substitute if sun-dried aren't available
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used at a 3:1 ratio
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can replace but may lack smokiness
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Leftover rotisserie chicken works well
  • 1/2 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a great substitute
  • 1/2 cup Manchego Cheese Pecorino is a good substitute
  • 1 pinch Saffron Threads Can be omitted if unavailable

For Assembly

  • 1 whites Egg White Used for egg wash

Instructions
 

Dough Preparation

  • In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour and salt, pulsing until well mixed. Add the cold butter and pulse until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the egg and ice-cold water until a dough forms. Chill for 30-60 minutes to ensure it’s easy to roll out.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out your chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (6 inches works well) to cut circles from the dough.

Filling Preparation

  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions until they soften and become translucent. Add minced garlic, roasted red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes; cook for about 2 minutes until everything is fragrant. Mix in oregano, smoked paprika, and shredded chicken, and moisten with chicken broth. Allow this mixture to cool.

Assembling the Empanadas

  • Place a generous spoonful of the chicken filling on one half of each dough circle, adding a sprinkle of Manchego cheese if you desire. Fold the dough over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet, brush with egg white for a glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp.

Serving

  • Once baked, transfer the empanadas to a serving platter. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a side of romesco sauce or marinara for dipping.

Notes

Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch and extra freshness. Follow expert tips for the best results.
Keyword dessert, Empanadas, Fried Dough, Pestiños, Savory Snacks, Spanish Fried Dough