Cheesy Fried Empanadas with Chili Con Queso Dip

Ingredients


3 cups chopped, cooked chicken, about 4 to 5 chicken breasts

1 (8-ounce) package shredded colby and Monterey Jack cheese blend

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 chopped red bell pepper

1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 (15-ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts

Water

Directions

Preheat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F.



In a large bowl using a rubber spatula, combine the chicken, colby and Monterey cheese, cream cheese, red pepper, jalapeno, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove 1 pie crust from pie tin onto a lightly floured surface and roll into a 15-inch circle. Cut out rounds, using a 3-inch cookie cutter. Re-roll dough as needed. Repeat procedure with remaining pie crusts, making 12 to 15 circles total. Arrange 1 round on a clean, flat surface. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of crust with water. Place 1 heaping teaspoon of chicken mixture in the center of the round. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges with a fork to seal. Repeat with the remaining rounds and chicken mixture. Place empanadas in deep-fryer for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown. Top with con queso dip.

Note: Up to this point, the recipe can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month

Chili Con Queso Dip

1 pound package Cheddar (recommended: Velveeta)

1 (16-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles

2 teaspoons hot sauce

In a medium sauce pot, slowly melt Cheddar over medium/low heat. When cheese is fully melted add tomatoes, chiles, and hot sauce, stirring with spoon until combined well.
Pour cheese dip into a small casserole dish and serve as a dip for the cheesy empanadas or pour on top for a real cheesy effect.


Recipe and pic from food network