Coxinha de Frango
BrazilianAppetizer

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Coxinha is one of Brazil's most beloved street foods and party snacks, literally translating to "little thigh" due to its distinctive teardrop shape that resembles a chicken drumstick. This iconic appetizer features tender shredded chicken mixed with catupiry-style cream cheese, creating a creamy, savory filling that contrasts beautifully with the crispy breadcrumb coating. The dough itself is made by cooking flour in seasoned chicken broth, resulting in a smooth, pliable texture that can be shaped and molded around the filling. Originally created in São Paulo in the 19th century, coxinhas have become a staple at Brazilian celebrations, bars, and bakeries. The key to perfect coxinhas lies in achieving the right dough consistency and ensuring the filling is flavorful and moist. These addictive bites are best served hot and fresh, allowing the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the creamy interior to shine through.

Instructions

step by step
0/8 done
  1. Prepare the filling by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the shredded chicken breast and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  2. Remove from heat and stir in the cream cheese and chopped parsley until well combined. Let the filling cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

  3. Make the dough by bringing 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Add butter and salt, then reduce heat to low. Gradually add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 2 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.

  5. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it into a circle about 4 inches in diameter. Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center, then carefully shape the dough around it, forming a teardrop shape and pinching the seams to seal completely. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

  6. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs. Dip each coxinha first in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat completely.

  7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches of 3-4 at a time for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.

  8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Coxinha de Frango

4.3 (55)

Golden-fried teardrop-shaped chicken croquettes filled with seasoned shredded chicken, cream cheese, and herbs, encased in a delicate dough made from chicken broth and flour, then coated in breadcrumbs for the perfect crispy exterior.

medium
1h 5m
12 servings

Ingredients

0 of 14 checked

Filling

  • 500 grams Chicken Breast, cooked and shredded
  • 4 tablespoons Cream Cheese, softened
  • 1 pieces Onions, finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons Parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Dough

  • 2 1/2 cups Flour, all-purpose
  • 2 tablespoons Butter

Breading

  • 2 pieces Eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Breadcrumbs

Frying

  • 4 cups Vegetable Oil

Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoons Black Pepper, ground
  • 1 teaspoons Paprika

Chef Tips

expert advice
The dough must be kneaded while still warm to achieve the right texture.
If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of warm broth; if too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Make sure the filling is completely cool before shaping to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
The teardrop shape is traditional, but if you find it challenging, you can make them round.
These freeze beautifully before frying - freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
Always maintain oil temperature between 340-360°F for the crispiest results.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
Chef Notes: For the most authentic flavor, use catupiry cheese if available, but cream cheese is an excellent substitute.
For a spicier version, add minced malagueta peppers to the filling.

Serving & Pairings

what goes well
Serve with hot sauce or lime wedges on the side.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

Store cooled coxinhas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze uncooked breaded coxinhas in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Cooked coxinhas can also be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat refrigerated coxinhas, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For frozen cooked coxinhas, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for the crispiest results. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy.