Empadão de Frango Recipe of Brazil | Brazilian Chicken Pot Pie

Empadão de Frango is a popular Brazilian dish that can be described as a savory chicken pot pie. The dish typically consists of a creamy chicken filling made with shredded chicken, onions, and a rich sauce, often with added ingredients like peas, carrots, and olives for flavor. The filling is seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to create a flavorful mixture.

The unique aspect of Empadão de Frango is its crust. Instead of traditional pie crust, it is encased in a layer of mashed potatoes, which are often mixed with cheese and egg to create a creamy and golden top layer. This crust not only adds a delightful texture but also complements the creamy chicken filling.

Empadão de Frango is usually baked until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. It is often served as a hearty main course during family gatherings, celebrations, or for a comforting meal. The combination of creamy chicken and mashed potato crust makes it a comforting and satisfying dish loved by Brazilians. Here is a recipe of Empadão de Frango.

You may also try this Brazilian shrimp stew recipe:

1. Moqueca de camarão Recipe of Brazil

Ingredients of Empadão de Frango:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (you can use leftover roasted or boiled chicken)
• 1 finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 1/2 cup pitted sliced green olives
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For the Potato Crust:

• 4 large peeled potatoes (cut it into chunks)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mozzarella also work well)
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions of Making Empadão de Frango:

1. Start by making the filling:

• Take a large skillet and heat the vegetable oil in it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent.
• Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and cook for a few minutes, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
• Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer and thicken for a few minutes.
• Add the frozen peas, carrots, olives, and paprika (if using). Cook this chicken broth for another 7-8 minutes or until the vegetables become tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Prepare the potato crust:

• Boil the potato chunks in salted water until they are tender. Drain out water and mash potatoes with a potato masher.
• Stir in the milk, butter, shredded cheese and beaten egg, continuing to mash until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
•  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) in the mean time.

3. Assemble the Empadão de Frango:

• In a greased baking dish, spread half of the mashed potato mixture along the bottom and up the sides.
• Pour the chicken filling into the potato-lined dish and spread it evenly.
• Cover the chicken filling with the remaining mashed potatoes and smooth the top.
• Now bake your Empadão de Frango in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the color of the top is golden brown. That's all! Your Empadão de Frango is ready to be served now.

4. Serving of Empadão de Frango:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Empadão de Frango! It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a satisfying meal.

Recipe Card

Cuisine: Brazilian, Course: Main dish, Prep Time: 1hour, Cook Time: 45minutes, Resting and cooling time: 45minutes, Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes, Servings: 8 slices