Coxinhas (Brazilian Chicken Croquettes)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Coxinhas (Brazilian Chicken Croquettes).

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious chicken croquettes, grab a pot and set it over medium heat.

2. Step 2

   Add the chicken breasts along with one cup of chicken broth.

3. Step 3

   Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

4. Step 4

   Keep an eye on it, checking occasionally to make sure there’s enough liquid; if it looks a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth.

5. Step 5

   Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the pot and let it cool for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.

6. Step 6

   Next, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

7. Step 7

   Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around five minutes.

8. Step 8

   Now, stir in the shredded chicken, along with the chopped olives and fresh parsley.

9. Step 9

   Season this mixture with salt and pepper to your liking, then remove it from the heat and set it aside to let those flavors mingle.

10. Step 10

    In a large saucepan, combine two cups of chicken broth with a bit of butter over medium heat.

11. Step 11

    Season it with salt and bring it to a gentle simmer.

12. Step 12

    When it’s bubbling nicely, add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously to create a thick paste.

13. Step 13

    Keep mixing until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to the bottom of the pan.

14. Step 14

    Once it reaches that perfect consistency, take it off the heat and allow it to cool until it’s comfortable to handle.

15. Step 15

    When the pastry is cool enough, transfer it to an oiled work surface and knead it for about two to three minutes until it’s nice and smooth.

16. Step 16

    Now, take a portion of the pastry and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball.

17. Step 17

    With an oiled finger, create a small bowl in the center of the ball and fill it with about two teaspoons of your savory chicken mixture.

18. Step 18

    Gather the edges to seal it up and gently roll it into a teardrop shape.

19. Step 19

    Place your croquette aside and cover it with a damp towel to keep it moist.

20. Step 20

    Repeat this process with the remaining pastry and filling until you have a delightful batch ready to go.

21. Step 21

    Now it’s time to prepare for frying! Set up three bowls in a row: one with flour, the next with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs.

22. Step 22

    Take each croquette, roll it in the flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.

23. Step 23

    Heat oil in a large saucepan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

24. Step 24

    Fry the croquettes in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy all over, which should take about seven to ten minutes.

25. Step 25

    Once they’re beautifully browned, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

26. Step 26

    And there you have it—crispy, golden chicken croquettes that are sure to impress! Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish.

27. Step 27

    Happy cooking!.