Brazilian Chicken Croquettes (Coxinha)

 Coxinha: Brazil’s Beloved Street Food

Brazilian street food is full of rich flavors and cultural significance, and Coxinha is one of the most beloved snacks in the country. These crispy, golden-brown chicken croquettes have won the hearts of Brazilians and food lovers worldwide. Their teardrop shape, crunchy exterior, and savory shredded chicken filling make them a must-try dish.

In this guide, you’ll discover:
✔️ The history of coxinha
✔️ The best coxinha recipe for a perfect crispy bite
✔️ Tips for making authentic massa de coxinha (coxinha dough)
✔️ Variations of coxinha from different Brazilian regions
✔️ The best dipping sauces for Brazilian chicken croquettes

📜 The Story Behind Coxinha: A Royal Beginning

From Palace Kitchens to Street Food Stalls

The origins of coxinha trace back to São Paulo, where it was first prepared for Brazilian royalty. Legend has it that a prince loved chicken drumsticks (coxinha da asa) so much that his chef found a way to replicate them using shredded chicken wrapped in dough, shaped like a chicken leg, and deep-fried.

Over time, this dish became popular among the general public and spread across Brazil, evolving into different styles and flavors. Today, coxinha is a staple at Brazilian bakeries, street food stalls, and family gatherings.

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Authentic Coxinha

Making the perfect Brazilian chicken croquettes (coxinha) requires high-quality ingredients.

🥩 Filling Ingredients

✔️ 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
✔️ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
✔️ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔️ 1 tsp paprika
✔️ ½ tsp cumin
✔️ Salt and black pepper to taste
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil

🥖 Dough Ingredients (Massa de Coxinha)

✔️ 2 cups all-purpose flour
✔️ 2 cups chicken broth (from cooking the chicken)
✔️ 2 tbsp butter
✔️ 1 pinch salt

🍞 Breading & Frying Ingredients

✔️ 2 eggs, beaten
✔️ 1½ cups breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
✔️ Oil for deep frying (preferably vegetable or peanut oil)

🥣 Step-by-Step Coxinha Recipe: How to Make Brazilian Chicken Croquettes

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
2. Add the shredded chicken, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring to blend flavors. Set aside to cool.

2️⃣ Make the Dough (Massa de Coxinha)

1. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth, butter, and salt to a boil.
2. Add the flour all at once, stirring constantly until a soft dough forms.
3. Transfer to a surface and knead while warm until smooth.

3️⃣ Shape the Coxinha

1. Take a small piece of dough and flatten it into a disc.
2. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center.
3. Close the dough around the filling and shape it into a teardrop.

4️⃣ Bread and Fry the Coxinha

1. Dip each coxinha into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
2. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown.
3. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

🌍 Coxinha Variations: Regional Styles & Fillings

Brazil is a vast country, and each region has unique takes on coxinha:

✔️ Coxinha de Frango – The classic shredded chicken filling.
✔️ Coxinha de Camarão – A delicious shrimp filling, popular in coastal cities.
✔️ Coxinha de Queijo – Filled with melted cheese, a vegetarian favorite.
✔️ Coxinha de Carne Seca – Uses Brazilian dried beef for a richer flavor.
✔️ Mini Coxinhas – Smaller versions, served as party snacks.

Each variation showcases the creativity of Brazilian cuisine and makes coxinha even more exciting!

🔥 Best Dipping Sauces for Coxinha

Coxinha is delicious on its own, but dipping sauces elevate the experience:

✔️ Molho de Pimenta – A Brazilian hot pepper sauce for a spicy kick.
✔️ Aioli – A garlic mayo sauce, perfect for creamy contrast.
✔️ Salsa Verde – A fresh herb sauce for a tangy twist.
✔️ Guacamole – A creamy avocado dip, popular in modern variations.

📦 Storage & Reheating Tips: Keep Your Coxinha Fresh

✔️ Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
✔️ Reheating: Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or re-fry for crispy texture.

🎉 Hosting a Brazilian Street Food Party

Want to bring the spirit of Brazil to your home? Throw a Brazilian street food party!

Menu Ideas:
✔️ Coxinha (Brazilian chicken croquettes)
✔️ Pastel (Fried pockets filled with cheese or meat)
✔️ Pão de Queijo (Cheese bread)
✔️ Caipirinhas (Brazil’s national cocktail)
✔️ Guarana Soda (Brazilian soft drink)

Set the ambiance with Brazilian music, decorate with colorful carnival themes, and serve food in rustic wooden trays for an authentic experience!

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Coxinha

"Coxinha" means "little thigh", referring to its shape resembling a chicken drumstick.

❓ How do you pronounce Coxinha?
Coxinha is pronounced "koh-SHEEN-yah" in Portuguese.

❓ Is Coxinha a dumpling?
Not exactly. It is closer to a croquette since it is breaded and fried.

❓ Are Coxinhas healthy?
Coxinhas are fried snacks, so they are an indulgent treat rather than a health food. However, you can make a baked or air-fried version for a lighter alternative.

🏆 Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Coxinha

Coxinha is more than just a snack—it's a piece of Brazilian culture. Whether you're making it for a party or indulging in a street food experience at home, this recipe brings authentic Brazilian flavors to your kitchen.

Now it's time to try making your own coxinha! Impress your friends, share the joy of Brazilian cuisine, and enjoy every crispy, delicious bite.

🍗 🇧🇷 Bom apetite! 🇧🇷 🍗

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