How to Make Coxinha With Rotisserie Chicken

Looking to master the art of making delicious coxinha with rotisserie chicken? Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden brown exterior, revealing a creamy, savory filling bursting with flavorful rotisserie chicken. This Brazilian snack is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.

With a few simple steps, you can create these delightful treats in your own kitchen. Let's dive into the process of preparing the chicken filling, making the dough, assembling the coxinha, and finally frying them to perfection.

Get ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with this irresistible snack.

Key Takeaways

• Season the rotisserie chicken with a variety of seasonings to create a flavorful base for the Coxinha filling.
• Use a combination of flour, chicken broth, and butter to make a smooth and pliable dough for the Coxinha shells.
• Shape the Coxinha by rolling a portion of dough into a disc, placing the chicken filling in the center, and folding the dough over to create a teardrop shape.
• Fry the Coxinha in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, and serve them hot as a snack or appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces.

Ingredients for Coxinha

To make Coxinha with rotisserie chicken, you'll need the following ingredients.

• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Onions, garlic, and a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and paprika
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs and breadcrumbs

First, acquire shredded rotisserie chicken, which will form the flavorful core of the Coxinha filling. The cooking technique for the chicken can vary based on personal preference, but using rotisserie chicken adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Next, gather onions, garlic, and a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor of the filling. These ingredients will be sautéed to create a rich, aromatic base for the Coxinha.

Additionally, you'll need all-purpose flour, which serves as the foundation for the dough that encases the savory filling. The dough can be flavored with chicken broth for an extra dimension of taste.

Finally, have eggs and breadcrumbs ready for coating the formed Coxinha before frying. This cooking technique ensures a crispy, golden exterior.

These are the essential ingredients for making Coxinha with rotisserie chicken, and considering different flavor variations can elevate this traditional Brazilian snack to new heights of deliciousness.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

To prepare the chicken filling for Coxinha, start by sautéing the shredded rotisserie chicken with onions, garlic, and a variety of seasonings to create a rich, aromatic base. Here's how to ensure your chicken filling is bursting with flavor:

• Seasoning the chicken:
• Generously season the shredded chicken with a blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin to infuse it with a well-rounded depth of flavor.
• Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle kick that complements the richness of the Coxinha dough.
• Add a pinch of oregano and thyme to enhance the aromatic profile of the filling, creating a tantalizing aroma as it cooks.
• Shredding the chicken:
• Carefully shred the rotisserie chicken into small, bite-sized pieces, ensuring a consistent texture throughout the filling.
• Use two forks to effortlessly shred the chicken, allowing it to soak up the flavors of the sautéed onions, garlic, and seasonings.
• Consider reserving some of the crispy skin from the rotisserie chicken to add a delightful crunch to the filling.

Making the Coxinha Dough

Start by combining 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, stirring over medium heat until the mixture forms a smooth, pliable dough. The consistency should be firm enough to hold its shape when molded but still pliable enough to work with. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Once the dough is ready, it's time to shape the coxinha. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Then, using your hands, flatten the ball into a small disk. Place a spoonful of the prepared chicken filling in the center and carefully shape the dough around the filling, forming it into a teardrop shape.

For those looking for gluten-free alternatives, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

When it comes to baking, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the shaped coxinhas on a baking sheet. Brush them with a little oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. This baking technique ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the dough tender inside.

Assembling and Shaping Coxinha

Once the dough is ready, you'll assemble the coxinha by taking a small portion of the dough and rolling it into a ball.

Here's how to assemble and shape your coxinha:

• Shaping Techniques
• Flatten the dough ball into a small, circular disc in the palm of your hand.
• Add a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of the disc.
• Carefully fold the dough over the filling, shaping it into a teardrop or pear-like form, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
• Flavor Variations
• Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, ham, or vegetables to create unique flavor profiles.
• Consider adding spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder to the dough for a spicy variation.
• For a twist, incorporate herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives into the dough to enhance the overall taste.

Mastering these shaping techniques will help you achieve the traditional coxinha shape, while exploring flavor variations will allow you to personalize this beloved Brazilian snack to your taste preferences.

Frying and Serving Coxinha

After you have shaped the coxinha, carefully lower them into the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Proper frying techniques are crucial to achieve the perfect texture. Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to ensure the coxinha cooks evenly without absorbing excess oil. Once fried, place the coxinha on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Coxinha is traditionally served hot as a snack or appetizer. It pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces such as hot sauce, aioli, or chimichurri. For a complete meal, serve coxinha alongside a fresh green salad or as part of a Brazilian feast with other traditional dishes like feijoada and pão de queijo.

Whether you stick to the classic chicken filling or explore different variations, coxinha holds cultural significance in Brazilian cuisine and is a delightful treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Filling, Like Ground Beef or Shrimp?

Yes, you can use ground beef or shrimp as an alternative filling for coxinha. If you're looking for vegetarian options, consider using mushrooms or tofu. When substituting meat, ensure it's cooked and seasoned to complement the traditional flavors.

Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time and Refrigerate It for Later Use?

You can absolutely make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for later use. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature for easier shaping.

Can I Bake the Coxinha Instead of Frying It for a Healthier Option?

You can bake the coxinha instead of frying it for a healthier option. This alternative reduces the amount of oil used and can result in a lighter dish while still maintaining the delicious flavors.

Can I Freeze the Coxinha After It's Assembled but Before Frying It?

Yes, you can freeze the coxinha after assembling but before frying it. For dough preparation, ensure it's well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Rotisserie chicken can be used, and alternative fillings like cheese or vegetables are also great options.

Can I Use a Different Type of Flour, Like Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Flour, for the Dough?

Yes, you can use a different type of flour like whole wheat or gluten-free flour for the dough. Experiment with different flours to find the one that suits your preferences. Consider alternative fillings for a unique twist.