Looking for a delightful lunch that brings a taste of Brazil into your kitchen? These air-fried coxinhas are crispy on the outside and savory on the inside, making them the perfect midday treat. Ideal for gatherings or a simple family lunch, they are sure to impress!

Why I Love This Recipe

I first discovered coxinhas at a Brazilian festival, and I was instantly hooked by their unique flavor and texture. When I learned to make them using an air fryer, I knew I had a winning recipe that would make lunch both special and easy to prepare. This dish has since become a staple in my home!

Why You’ll Love It Too

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
  • Flavorful and satisfying—great for all ages.
  • Healthier alternative with the air-frying method.
  • Versatile filling options, allowing for customization.
  • Can be served hot or cold, making leftovers delightful.

Ingredient Notes

For this recipe, you will need 1 cup of cooked and shredded chicken, 2 tablespoons of cream cheese, 1 pound of dough (store-bought or homemade), and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for substitutes, you can use turkey in place of chicken and any soft cheese if you’re out of cream cheese. Make sure to choose a dough that is easy to work with, such as pizza dough for convenience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles.
  2. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle and fold the dough over, sealing the edges tightly.
  3. Dip each coxinha in breadcrumbs to coat.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the coxinhas in a single layer.
  5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Things I’ve Learned

One key tip is to ensure the coxinhas are sealed properly to avoid any filling leakage during cooking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the air fryer for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. For meal prep, you can assemble the coxinhas ahead of time and freeze them; just air fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Q: How should I store leftovers?

A: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality and freshness.

Q: Can I substitute ingredients?

A: Yes, most ingredients can be swapped for similar alternatives.

Four-Ingredient Brazilian Air-Fried Coxinhas

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 1 pound dough
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cream cheese until well combined. Season as desired.
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles.
  3. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle and fold the dough over, sealing the edges tightly.
  4. Dip each coxinha in breadcrumbs to coat.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the coxinhas in a single layer.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

This recipe has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!