Coxinha – Brazil’s Crispy Chicken Croquette

Coxinha is Brazil’s favorite street food snack. Shaped like a teardrop or chicken leg, it’s made of shredded chicken wrapped in a seasoned dough, breaded, and deep-fried until golden and crispy. One bite and you’ll get why it’s everywhere from bakeries to parties.

Ingredients:
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic
Salt, pepper, parsley
Eggs and breadcrumbs for coating
Oil for frying

How to Make It:
Sauté onion and garlic, add chicken and seasonings. Set aside.
In a pot, bring broth and milk to a boil. Add flour and stir until a smooth dough forms.
Let the dough cool, then take a small portion, flatten it, add chicken filling, and shape into a teardrop.
Dip in egg and breadcrumbs, then fry until golden brown.

Why It’s Popular:
The contrast between the crispy outside and the creamy, savory chicken inside makes it irresistible. It’s portable, cheap, and perfect for sharing.

Serving Tip: Serve hot with lime wedges and hot sauce. Brazilians often eat it with a cold soda on the side.

Fun Fact: “Coxinha” literally means “little thigh” because of its shape, which resembles a chicken drumstick.