Ever craved a taste of Brazil right from your kitchen? Coxinhas, those irresistibly crispy and creamy chicken croquettes, are here to turn your snack time into a festive Brazilian street food experience. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just when you’re in the mood for something deliciously different, these 12 coxinha recipes promise to bring joy and flavor to your table. Let’s dive into the world of these golden delights!
Classic Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Wow, have you ever tried those irresistible Brazilian chicken coxinhas? They’re these golden, tear-shaped snacks with a creamy chicken filling that’s just too good to pass up. Perfect for your next party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (fresh and creamy)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced and aromatic)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin and fruity)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and sea-sourced)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 eggs (farm-fresh and beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- Oil for frying (neutral and high-smoke point)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, then add chicken broth. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate pot, melt butter over low heat. Add milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the milk from scalding.
- Quickly stir in flour, mixing vigorously until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the pot, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it briefly on a clean surface. Divide into small portions, flatten each, and spoon in the chicken mixture. Shape into teardrops, sealing the edges well. Tip: Wet your fingers to prevent sticking.
- Dip each coxinha into beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage.
- Heat frying oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy pot. Fry coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 4 minutes per batch. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Unbelievably crispy on the outside with a lusciously creamy chicken center, these coxinhas are a hit. Try serving them with a spicy mayo dip for an extra kick!
Spicy Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Bite into the crispy, golden exterior of these Spicy Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas and discover a creamy, flavorful filling that’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for your next party or a cozy night in, these little teardrop-shaped delights are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (soft and creamy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, for a fruity note)
- 1 small onion (finely diced, for a bit of crunch)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced, for a pungent kick)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (for that spicy warmth)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (fine and powdery)
- 1 cup milk (whole, for richness)
- 2 eggs (farm-fresh, beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- Oil for frying (enough to deep fry, for that perfect crunch)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream cheese, and chili flakes. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- In a separate pot, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Gradually whisk in the flour until a dough forms. Tip: Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Once the dough is smooth, transfer it to a floured surface. Knead lightly until it’s no longer sticky.
- Pinch off golf ball-sized pieces of dough. Flatten each into a disc, place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center, and shape into a teardrop. Tip: Wet your fingers to prevent sticking.
- Dip each coxinha into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot for even cooking.
Out of the fryer, these coxinhas boast a crispy shell with a molten, spicy chicken center. Serve them with a side of hot sauce or a cooling yogurt dip to balance the heat. Perfect for sharing, if you can resist eating them all yourself!
Cheesy Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Zesty and utterly delicious, these Cheesy Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas are your next party hit. Imagine crispy, golden dough filled with creamy chicken and gooey cheese—pure bliss in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup cream cheese (soft and spreadable)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, for that perfect melt)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (creamy and at room temperature)
- 2 eggs (large and farm-fresh)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and sea-sourced)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, enough to deep fry)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella until well combined. Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder.
- In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth and butter to a boil over medium heat. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to low and quickly stir in the flour until a dough forms. Tip: The dough should pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then, knead it until smooth.
- Take a small portion of dough, flatten it in your hand, and place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Seal the dough around the filling, forming a teardrop shape.
- Beat the eggs in a shallow dish. Dip each coxinha in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Wonderfully crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy inside, these coxinhas are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a spicy dipping sauce or a cool herbed yogurt for an extra flavor kick.
Gluten-Free Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Ready to dive into a gluten-free twist on a Brazilian classic? These chicken coxinhas are a must-try, offering a crispy exterior with a creamy, flavorful filling that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (light and fluffy)
- 1/2 cup creamy coconut milk (rich and velvety)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions (crisp and aromatic)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin, for a fruity depth)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for a warm, savory note)
- 1/2 tsp salt (fine, to enhance all flavors)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (freshly cracked for a bit of heat)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying, to golden perfection)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then sauté onions until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix gluten-free flour and coconut milk until a smooth dough forms. Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- Take a small portion of the dough, flatten it in your hand, and place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the filling, shaping it into a teardrop. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure even cooking.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
The coxinhas come out with a satisfying crunch, giving way to a moist, savory chicken center. Serve them with a side of spicy mayo or a zesty lime wedge for an extra kick.
Vegan Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Kick off your culinary adventure with these Vegan Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas, a plant-based twist on the classic Brazilian snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. You’ll love how the crispy exterior gives way to a creamy, savory filling, perfect for your next snack attack or party platter.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of finely shredded jackfruit, for a meaty texture
- 1 cup of creamy coconut milk, to add richness
- 1/2 cup of smooth almond flour, for binding
- 1/4 cup of golden flaxseed meal, mixed with 1/2 cup water to create a gel
- 2 tbsp of vibrant turmeric powder, for color and earthiness
- 1 tbsp of aromatic garlic powder, for depth
- 1 tsp of smoky paprika, for a hint of warmth
- 1/2 tsp of fine sea salt, to enhance flavors
- 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs, for that irresistible crunch
- 1 quart of sunflower oil, for frying to golden perfection
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded jackfruit, coconut milk, almond flour, flaxseed gel, turmeric, garlic powder, paprika, and sea salt. Mix until the mixture is uniform and holds together when pressed.
- Shape the mixture into small, teardrop-shaped balls, about the size of a golf ball. This shape is traditional for coxinhas and ensures even cooking.
- Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. For extra crunch, press the breadcrumbs gently into the surface.
- Heat the sunflower oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy for the best texture.
- Fry the coxinhas in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Let them cool for a minute before serving. The filling will be hot, and this rest period helps the flavors meld.
Perfectly crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful heart, these Vegan Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a zesty lime dip or a spicy vegan mayo to elevate the experience even further.
Baked Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Ready to spice up your dinner routine with something irresistibly crispy and flavorful? These Baked Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas are a game-changer, offering all the crunch of the classic fried version but with a lighter twist that you’ll love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup creamy cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup rich chicken broth (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
- 1 tbsp vibrant olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
- 1 clove garlic (freshly minced for a punch of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp finely ground sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for that perfect golden crunch)
- 2 large farm-fresh eggs (beaten, for binding)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, teardrop-shaped balls. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then roll them in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Tip: Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they adhere well.
- Place the coated coxinhas on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coxinhas with cooking spray before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the coxinhas are golden brown and crispy.
Just out of the oven, these coxinhas boast a crispy exterior that gives way to a creamy, savory filling. Serve them with a side of spicy mayo or a zesty lime dip for an extra kick that’ll have everyone reaching for more.
Air Fryer Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Deliciously crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy inside, these Air Fryer Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas are a game-changer for your snack game. You’ll love how easy they are to make, with that perfect golden crunch every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (soft and creamy)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (fresh and aromatic)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced and pungent)
- 1 tbsp butter (unsalted and melted)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- 2 large eggs (farm-fresh and beaten)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and sea-sourced)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoky and sweet)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream cheese, onion, garlic, butter, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Tip: Let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling.
- Shape the chicken mixture into small, teardrop-shaped balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Roll each coxinha in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re fully covered. Tip: For extra crispiness, double coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the coxinhas in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve these coxinhas hot, with their crispy exterior giving way to a creamy, flavorful center. They’re perfect with a side of spicy mayo or a zesty lime dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Mini Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas

Ever tried those bite-sized Brazilian snacks that are impossible to put down? Let’s make Mini Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas, a crispy, creamy delight that’s perfect for your next gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (fresh and creamy)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced and aromatic)
- 1/2 tsp salt (fine and evenly distributed)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 eggs (farm-fresh and beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- Oil for frying (high-quality and neutral-tasting)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant.
- Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the butter, sautéing until they’re soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture forms a thick dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, salt, and black pepper, mixing until the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Transfer the dough to a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Once chilled, shape the dough into small teardrop shapes, using about a tablespoon of dough for each coxinha.
- Dip each shaped coxinha into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F, ensuring there’s enough oil to fully submerge the coxinhas.
- Fry the coxinhas in batches, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
These Mini Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas are a textural dream—crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside. Serve them with a side of spicy mayo or a tangy lime dipping sauce to really make the flavors pop.
Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Cream Cheese

Perfect for your next gathering, these Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Cream Cheese are a crispy, creamy delight that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. You’ll love how the tender shredded chicken and smooth cream cheese come together in a golden, fried shell.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup cream cheese (soft and spreadable)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1 cup whole milk (rich and creamy)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and evenly distributed)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 egg (large and farm-fresh)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying, hot and shimmering)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken and cream cheese until well combined. Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder to the mixture.
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms. Tip: Work fast to avoid lumps.
- Let the dough cool slightly, then knead it on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Pinch off golf ball-sized pieces of dough, flatten each into a disc, and place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center.
- Fold the dough over the filling, shaping it into a teardrop. Tip: Wet your fingers to seal the edges without cracking.
- Beat the egg in a shallow bowl. Dip each coxinha in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Crispy on the outside with a molten cream cheese and chicken center, these coxinhas are a textural dream. Try serving them with a spicy dipping sauce to cut through the richness.
Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Catupiry Cheese

Unbelievably delicious, these Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Catupiry Cheese are the perfect bite-sized treats that’ll transport your taste buds straight to Brazil. You’ll love the creamy filling and crispy exterior.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup Catupiry cheese (creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (soft and finely sifted)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and golden)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and evenly distributed)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 eggs (large and farm-fresh)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (crispy and golden)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying, hot and shimmering)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded chicken, Catupiry cheese, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the cheese.
- In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, melted butter, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the chicken mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust with a little more flour if needed.
- Shape the dough into small teardrop shapes, about 2 inches long. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl. Dip each coxinha into the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
These coxinhas are a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy, with a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve them warm with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Jalapeno

These Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Jalapeno are the perfect bite-sized treats that pack a punch. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and just the right amount of spicy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (soft and creamy)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapenos (fresh and spicy)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (fine and sifted)
- 1 cup milk (whole and creamy)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and golden)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and sea-sourced)
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- 2 eggs (large and farm-fresh)
- Vegetable oil for frying (hot and shimmering)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth, milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the flour until the mixture forms a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan. Tip: Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Then, mix in the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and chopped jalapenos until well combined.
- With lightly oiled hands, shape the mixture into small teardrop shapes. Tip: Wetting your hands prevents sticking.
- Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl.
- Dip each coxinha into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Tip: For extra crispiness, double coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
With their golden crust and spicy, creamy filling, these coxinhas are irresistible. Serve them with a side of cool cilantro lime sauce for dipping, or enjoy them straight out of the fryer for maximum crunch.
Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Bacon

Deliciously crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy inside, these Brazilian Chicken Coxinhas with Bacon are a game-changer for your snack game. You’ll love how the smoky bacon elevates the traditional flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (juicy and tender)
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (smoky and finely chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth (rich and flavorful)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (creamy and melted)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (soft and sifted)
- 1 tsp salt (fine and evenly distributed)
- 2 eggs (farm-fresh and beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (golden and crispy)
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying, hot and shimmering)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the shredded chicken, bacon bits, and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and cohesive.
- Add the melted butter and salt to the saucepan, stirring until fully incorporated into the chicken mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Gradually mix in the sifted flour, kneading until a smooth dough forms. Tip: The dough should be pliable but not sticky; adjust with a bit more flour if needed.
- Shape the dough into small teardrop shapes, about the size of a golf ball. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Dip each coxinha into the beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated. Tip: For extra crispiness, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the coxinhas in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
You’ll be amazed by the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavorful filling inside. Serve these coxinhas hot with a side of spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Just like that, you’ve got a treasure trove of 12 mouthwatering Coxinhas recipes to bring a taste of Brazil to your kitchen! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying your hand at these delightful chicken croquettes for the first time, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to whip up your favorite, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article to spread the joy of cooking!