Authentic Brazilian Coxinha Recipe: Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Ingredients

500 grams of chicken breast
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of chicken broth
2 cups of all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 cups of breadcrumbs
1 cup of cream cheese
1/4 cup of chopped parsley
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for deep frying

Steps and instructions

In a large pot, add the chicken breasts, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the breasts from the pot and set aside to cool. Do not discard the broth.
When the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into small pieces.
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and parsley together. Set this mixture aside.
Using the chicken broth left in the pot, add the flour and stir continuously until a dough forms.
Once the dough has formed, remove from heat and let it cool.
When the dough has cooled, divide it into equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball and place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a tear-drop shape to resemble a chicken drumstick.
Heat oil for deep frying in a large pot or deep fryer.
Dip each coxinha in the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs, making sure it is fully coated.
Fry the coxinhas until golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the coxinhas from the oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Large pot - for cooking the chicken and making the dough
Bowl - for mixing the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and parsley
Spoon - for stirring the chicken broth and flour mixture
Knife - for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic
Cutting board - for cutting the onion and garlic
Potato masher or fork - for shredding the cooked chicken
Deep-fryer or large pot - for frying the coxinhas
Slotted spoon or tongs - for removing the coxinhas from the oil
Paper towels - for draining excess oil from the fried coxinhas

Recipe variations

Use a different type of meat such as shredded beef or pork instead of chicken.
Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Experiment with different fillings such as cheese and ham, or a vegetarian filling with mushrooms and vegetables.
Add spices to the chicken mixture like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a spicier flavor.
Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or feta for a unique twist.
Instead of deep frying, try baking the coxinhas in the oven for a healthier option.
For a different crust, use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Add diced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the chicken filling for added flavor.
Make mini coxinhas by using smaller portions of dough and filling, perfect for appetizers or finger foods.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a combination of mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Recipe overview

This recipe is for a classic Brazilian snack, the coxinha. These delicious, savory treats are shaped like a chicken drumstick, which is what 'coxinha' means in Portuguese. The coxinha is made from a dough filled with a creamy chicken mixture, then breaded and deep-fried until golden brown. This recipe takes you through the process step by step, from cooking and shredding the chicken, to forming the distinctive shape, to achieving the perfect deep-fried crust. Expect to create a batch of mouthwatering coxinhas that are crunchy on the outside, and soft and flavorful on the inside. It's a bit of effort but definitely worth it - you'll feel like you've been transported to the streets of Brazil with each bite!

Common questions

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken? - Yes, you can substitute chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even a vegetarian filling.
Can I make the dough in advance? - Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Can I bake the coxinhas instead of deep frying them? - While traditionally coxinhas are deep-fried, you can try baking them in the oven for a healthier alternative. Brush them with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.
How can I prevent the coxinhas from bursting while frying? - Make sure the dough is not too thin, and pinch the edges tightly to seal the filling inside. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough to quickly cook the exterior, preventing excessive absorption of oil.
Can I freeze the coxinhas? - Yes, you can freeze the uncooked coxinhas. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator and proceed with frying or baking.
What can I serve with coxinhas? - Coxinhas are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. They pair well with hot sauce, aioli, or various dipping sauces. They can also be served alongside a fresh salad or as part of a party platter.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - For cooking the chicken and making the dough.
Bowl - To mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and parsley.
Spoons - For stirring the chicken broth, dough, and chicken mixture.
Knife - To chop the onion, mince the garlic, and shred the chicken.
Deep fryer or large pot - For frying the coxinhas.
Tongs - To flip and remove the coxinhas from the oil.
Paper towel - To drain excess oil from the fried coxinhas.

Origin stories

Coxinha, a beloved street food of Brazil, has an interesting story behind its creation. Legend has it that in the 19th century, a prince in Brazil loved to eat chicken, especially the thigh part. But one day, the cook couldn't find enough chicken thighs to satisfy the prince's cravings. In a moment of culinary innovation, the cook decided to shred the chicken breast, mix it with some spices, then shape the dough to resemble a chicken drumstick. The result was a hit with the prince and soon, it became popular throughout the country. Today, coxinha is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, enjoyed by all, not just royalty.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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