National Dish Portugal: Empadas de Galinha (Recipe)
In this article
Say hello to Empadas de Galinha, the little chicken pies that capture the warm, homely spirit of Portuguese cooking! These savoury pastries pair a tender, flaky crust with a richly seasoned filling of shredded chicken and softened onions. Whether you serve them as a moreish snack or as the centrepiece of a relaxed meal, they deliver an authentic taste of Portugal in every bite. Bring a touch of Lisbon’s pastry shops straight to your own kitchen.
About Empadas de Galinha
Empadas de Galinha are a delicious example of traditional Portuguese cooking, prized for their tender crust and generous filling. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic onions and a careful blend of spices makes them a genuine treat. The exact seasoning varies from kitchen to kitchen, and the result is a hearty, satisfying pastry enjoyed at almost any time of day. Whether served as a quick snack or as a main dish, these little pies are a true classic of Portuguese cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g plain flour
- 100 g butter
- 150 g cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- Spices to taste (e.g. salt, pepper, paprika)
- Optional: 100 ml stock
Shopping for the ingredients
To make the best Empadas de Galinha, choose ingredients that are fresh and of the highest quality. The chicken can be either pre-cooked or fresh, though fresh chicken tends to give a more intense flavour. When buying butter, look for brands without preservatives to achieve the finest results. Ideally the spices should be fresh too, as they have a decisive influence on the aroma of the finished dish.
Preparing the dish
Begin with the preparation of the ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken and finely chop the onion. For the pastry, rub the flour together with the butter, then add an egg and a little water to bring it into a smooth dough. It is important to let the dough rest before using it, as this makes it far easier to work with and roll out.
Step-by-step instructions
- Take the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface.
- Press the cut-out pieces of dough into a muffin tin.
- Spread the filling of chicken, onions and spices evenly over the bases.
- Cover with more dough and seal the edges well.
- Bake at 180°C for around 25 minutes, until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of the Empadas de Galinha, swap the wheat flour for a suitable gluten-free flour. Take care to replace the butter as well, using a suitable vegetable oil or a lactose-free butter product. This keeps the recipe accessible to anyone with an intolerance. It is wise to check that all the other ingredients are also gluten- and lactose-free, especially in any spice blends or pre-prepared items.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan take on Empadas de Galinha, the chicken can be replaced with a meat-free alternative such as tofu, seitan or a mixture of vegetables. Use plant-based butter or margarine for the pastry. The egg in the filling can likewise be swapped for a plant-based binder, for example chia or flax seeds soaked in water. This makes the little pies just as enjoyable for vegetarians and vegans alike.
More tips and tricks
A few tips can make all the difference when preparing Empadas de Galinha. Take care not to overwork the dough, so the crust stays tender and short. Add extra spices or ingredients as you like to vary the flavour, and stir fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme into the filling for an extra lift. Finally, brush the pastry with beaten egg before baking to achieve a beautiful golden colour.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Depending on your own preferences, you can adapt the Empadas de Galinha however you like. Experiment with different fillings by adding vegetables, cheese or mushrooms. The spices can be varied too, making the dish a little hotter or more aromatic. This flexibility makes the recipe versatile and interesting for anyone who loves to cook and discover new flavours, much like the resourceful spirit behind Feijão Tropeiro.
Ingredient substitutions
Instead of chicken you could use another meat such as turkey or beef to change the character of the filling. For a vegetarian option, red lentils make a good choice and keep the filling just as hearty. For the pastry, creative alternatives such as chickpea flour work well as a gluten-free option. It is worth trying out different ingredients to personalise the recipe and tailor it to your own taste.
Drink pairing ideas
The Empadas de Galinha pair beautifully with a range of drinks. A lightly chilled Vinho Verde, the fresh young Portuguese white, complements the flavours perfectly. Alternatively, a crisp cider works nicely with the savoury pastries. For an alcohol-free option, a fruity iced tea or a homemade lemonade balances the spices in the filling rather well — and rounds off a spread just as cheerfully as a glass of Vinho Quente com Especiarias on a cold evening.
Serving and presentation ideas
For an appealing presentation of the Empadas de Galinha, arrange them on an attractive serving platter that shows the pastries off to their best advantage. Garnish the plate with fresh herbs or a selection of dips to vary the colours and textures. You could also set the pies on a bed of salad to make the dish even more inviting. The way you present the food can greatly enhance the whole dining experience and impress your guests.
A bit of history
The Empadas de Galinha are deeply rooted in Portuguese tradition and have been prepared for centuries. The dish reflects a food culture in which chicken and well-seasoned ingredients play a central role. Historically, these pastries were a popular choice because they were easy to carry and sell at markets. Over time various regional variations developed, each reflecting local ingredients and tastes, in much the same way as the country’s beloved Bolinhos de Bacalhau.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Empadas de Galinha
In summary, the Empadas de Galinha are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed both as a snack and as a main course. With their tender crust and well-seasoned filling, they are a true highlight of Portuguese cooking. Thanks to the many possible adaptations and substitutions, anyone can prepare them to suit their own taste. Let yourself be tempted by this traditional delicacy and discover the joy of cooking this wonderful little pie.
