Brazilian Chicken Croquettes

Crispy, golden croquettes filled with creamy shredded chicken, Brazilian chicken croquettes—also known as coxinha—are a beloved street food in Brazil. These savory snacks have a crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful filling, making them perfect for parties, appetizers, or an indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Brazilian flavor – Enjoy the rich taste of a popular South American delicacy.
• Crispy and creamy – The combination of a crunchy breadcrumb coating and creamy chicken filling is irresistible.
• Great for gatherings – Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners.
• Fun to make – Shaping the dough and frying the croquettes is a rewarding experience.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe with different seasonings or fillings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• shredded cooked chicken
• small onion, finely chopped
• garlic, minced
• olive oil
• cream cheese
• chicken broth
• all-purpose flour
• salt
• paprika
• eggs, beaten
• breadcrumbs
• vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add shredded chicken and mix well.
2. Stir in cream cheese, season with salt and paprika, and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until a dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth.
5. Take small pieces of dough, flatten them, and place a spoonful of chicken filling inside. Shape into a teardrop.
6. Dip each croquette into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan and fry until golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 pieces

Variations

• Spicy Coxinha – Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Cheese-Stuffed Croquettes – Place a small cube of mozzarella inside each croquette for a gooey center.
• Herb-Infused Dough – Mix fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the dough for added flavor.
• Air-Fried Coxinha – Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes until crispy.

FAQs

What is coxinha?

Coxinha is a popular Brazilian street food consisting of shredded chicken inside a dough, shaped like a teardrop, breaded, and deep-fried.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, turning halfway through, though frying gives the crispiest texture.

What dipping sauces go well with coxinha?

They pair well with spicy mayo, garlic aioli, chimichurri, or classic Brazilian ketchup and mustard.

Why is my dough too dry?

If the dough is too dry, add a little more chicken broth while kneading to make it more pliable.

Can I prepare coxinha in advance?

Yes, you can shape and coat them ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze before frying.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for frying coxinha.

How do I prevent them from breaking while frying?

Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and makes preparation easier.

What makes coxinha different from other croquettes?

Coxinha has a unique teardrop shape and uses a flour-based dough rather than mashed potatoes or breadcrumbs as the base.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can mix in corn, bell peppers, or peas for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Brazilian chicken croquettes (coxinha) are a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, savory snacks. Whether served as a party appetizer or a comforting homemade treat, these golden croquettes deliver a satisfying combination of crunchy and creamy textures. Try different variations and enjoy a taste of Brazil right from your kitchen!