Brazilian Chicken Croquettes

Brazilian Chicken Croquettes, also known as Coxinha de Galinha, are a popular and delicious snack in Brazil. These crispy, savory treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a tasty appetizer. Made with a creamy chicken filling and a crispy breaded exterior, these croquettes are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy filling, and crispy breading creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
2. Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of these croquettes in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: Make a large batch of croquettes and freeze them for later, making them a convenient option for quick and delicious meals.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Dough:

• Whole milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the dough.
• Chicken broth or water: Provides moisture and flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dough.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Peeled and mashed potatoes: Helps bind the dough together.
• Sifted all-purpose flour: Gives the dough structure and texture.

For the Filling:

• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein in the filling.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the chicken.
• Minced garlic cloves: Provides a savory aroma and taste.
• Finely chopped small onion: Adds flavor and texture to the filling.
• Paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and spice.
• Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
• Tomato sauce: Adds depth and richness to the filling.
• Water: Helps to loosen the filling.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste.
• Fresh chopped parsley: Adds a fresh herb flavor to the filling.

For Breading & Frying:

• Milk: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the croquettes.
• Bread crumbs: Creates a crispy crust when fried.
• Vegetable oil: Used for frying the croquettes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the whole milk, chicken broth or water, salt, and butter for the dough. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the mashed potatoes and sifted flour to the saucepan and stir until a dough forms. Let it cool.
3. In a separate pan, cook the chicken breasts, garlic, onion, and paprika until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Shred the chicken and mix in the butter, cream cheese, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, and parsley for the filling.
5. Take a portion of the dough, flatten it, add some filling, and shape it into a croquette.
6. Dip the croquette in milk, then coat with breadcrumbs.
7. Fry the croquettes in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.

Helpful Tips:

• To make the process easier, prepare the dough and filling in advance.
• For a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes instead of frying them.
• Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot for frying to ensure even cooking.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of spices before cooking.
2. Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, ham, or vegetables for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Brazilian Chicken Croquettes with a side of hot sauce or salsa for added kick. Pair them with a refreshing caipirinha or a cold beer for the perfect snack combination.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

• While homemade dough is recommended for the best results, you can use store-bought dough as a shortcut.

1. Can I freeze the croquettes before frying?

• Yes, you can freeze the shaped croquettes before frying for later use.

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• You can substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

1. How can I prevent the croquettes from falling apart while frying?

• Make sure the croquettes are well coated in milk and breadcrumbs before frying to prevent them from falling apart.

Conclusion:

Brazilian Chicken Croquettes are a delicious and versatile snack that is sure to impress your friends and family. With a crispy exterior and a creamy filling, these croquettes are perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the flavors of Brazil in your own home.

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