Coxinha, pronounced co-sheen-ya, is a popular Brazilian street food known for its crispy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful chicken filling. Shaped like a little chicken drumstick, the name « coxinha » translates to « little thigh » in Portuguese. These delicious snacks are made with a dough that’s cooked with chicken broth, filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, and then breaded and deep-fried until crispy. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or as part of a meal, coxinha is sure to impress with its rich, savory flavor and crunchy texture.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of making authentic Brazilian coxinha at home, with tips on achieving the perfect dough, filling, and fry. If you’re ready to enjoy a taste of Brazil in your kitchen, let’s get started!
Ingredients for Making Coxinha
Coxinha has two main components: the dough and the filling. Below are the ingredients you’ll need for both parts.
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 2 cups chicken broth (480ml): For flavoring the dough.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g): Adds richness to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavor of the dough.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (optional): For extra seasoning.
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 300g): You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds flavor to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an aromatic kick.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (60g): Adds creaminess to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: For seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For freshness and color.
For Breading and Frying
- 2 eggs, beaten: To help the breadcrumbs stick.
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs: For coating the coxinhas.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Enough to fill your deep fryer or a pot with about 2-3 inches of oil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Coxinha
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Cook and Shred the Chicken: If you’re using fresh chicken breasts, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the chicken until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool slightly and shred it into small pieces. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the Chicken and Spices: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, along with the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese until the filling is creamy and well mixed. If desired, add some chopped parsley for freshness. Once the filling is done, set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Boil the Chicken Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth, butter, and salt to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the Flour: Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Cool the Dough: Transfer the dough to a clean surface or bowl and let it cool slightly until it’s comfortable to handle. Knead the dough for a minute or two until it’s smooth and pliable.
Step 3: Shape the Coxinha
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has cooled, divide it into golf ball-sized portions (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter).
- Shape the Dough: Take one portion of dough and flatten it into a disc with your fingers. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center, then fold the edges of the dough over the filling to enclose it. Gently shape the filled dough into a teardrop shape, resembling a little chicken drumstick. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 4: Bread and Fry the Coxinha
- Bread the Coxinha: Set up two bowls—one with the beaten eggs and one with the breadcrumbs. Dip each coxinha into the eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Fry the Coxinha: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coxinha in small batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy coxinhas.
- Drain the Coxinha: Use a slotted spoon to remove the coxinha from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve the Coxinha
Serve the coxinha hot and crispy, either on their own or with a dipping sauce like spicy mayo, ketchup, or chimichurri. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or party food that’s sure to impress your guests!
Tips for Making the Perfect Coxinha
1. Get the Dough Just Right
The dough for coxinha should be soft and pliable but firm enough to hold its shape when filled. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour. Kneading the dough slightly after it cools will help ensure a smooth texture.
2. Make Sure the Oil is Hot Enough
For perfectly crispy coxinhas, make sure the oil is heated to the correct temperature—350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cold, the coxinhas will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.
3. Work Quickly When Shaping
Once the dough is cool enough to handle, work quickly to shape the coxinha. If the dough cools too much, it can become more difficult to shape and seal around the filling.
4. Use Leftover Chicken
Coxinha is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Whether you have leftover roast chicken, grilled chicken, or rotisserie chicken, shredding it for the filling will save time and add extra flavor.
Variations of Coxinha
1. Cheese Coxinha
For a cheesy variation, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the filling along with the chicken and cream cheese. The cheese melts into the filling, creating a gooey, delicious center.
2. Coxinha with Beef
Swap the chicken for ground beef or shredded beef for a different take on this classic snack. Season the beef filling with garlic, onions, and spices like paprika and cumin for extra flavor.
3. Vegetarian Coxinha
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and cheese. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes for a more traditional texture.
4. Spicy Coxinha
Add a kick to the filling by mixing in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce with the chicken and cream cheese. You can also add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of spice.
FAQs About Making Coxinha
1. Can I make coxinha ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the coxinha up to the breading step and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the frying time.
2. Can I bake coxinha instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake coxinha as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded coxinha on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
3. What can I serve with coxinha?
Coxinha pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as spicy mayo, garlic aioli, chimichurri, or even simple ketchup. You can also serve them with a side of salad or rice for a more complete meal.
4. How long do coxinhas stay fresh?
Coxinha is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
5. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour to make the dough healthier. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the dough denser and may slightly alter the texture.
Conclusion
Coxinha is a classic Brazilian snack that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something savory and delicious. With its crispy exterior, creamy chicken filling, and satisfying bite, it’s no wonder that coxinha is a favorite in Brazil. Follow this guide to make authentic coxinha at home and enjoy a taste of Brazil’s culinary heritage. Whether you serve them with a dip or enjoy them on their own, these delightful chicken snacks are sure to be a hit.