The Brazilian Coxinha Burger is an imaginative and mouthwatering tribute to one of Brazil’s most beloved street foods: the coxinha. The coxinha, often referred to as Brazil’s answer to a croquette, is typically a teardrop-shaped appetizer stuffed with a savory and seasoned shredded chicken filling, encased in dough, and fried to golden perfection. Its irresistible combination of crisp exterior and rich, tender interior has made it a staple across Brazilian snack bars, bakeries, and festive gatherings. Inspired by the savory charm of this iconic dish, the Brazilian Coxinha Burger reinvents its classic elements into a full-sized, contemporary burger format, creating a fusion dish unlike any other.
This innovative recipe takes the foundational elements of coxinha—seasoned chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, and bold flavors—and amplifies them in a way that’s undeniably satisfying for burger lovers. The heart of the dish lies in the chicken patty, which is made by combining shredded chicken, sautéed onions, garlic, smoked paprika, and additional aromatics to capture the essence of traditional Brazilian seasoning. The mixture is shaped into burger-sized patties, breaded with a crispy panko coating, and fried to achieve the golden-brown crust reminiscent of coxinha’s signature texture. Despite its crispy exterior, the patty retains the juicy, well-seasoned core that so many find irresistible in traditional coxinha.
The transformation of coxinha into a burger not only pays homage to the original dish but also introduces it to a global audience in a versatile, modern way. The use of soft brioche buns adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory richness of the chicken patty, while optional garnishes such as lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions provide freshness and crunch. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that make the Brazilian Coxinha Burger a truly memorable culinary experience.
What makes this recipe particularly exciting is its adaptability. For individuals looking for a vegetarian or plant-based option, the chicken can easily be substituted with shredded jackfruit or a meat alternative that mimics the texture of traditional coxinha filling. Lime zest or chili flakes, though optional, can also be incorporated into the filling to add a zesty or spicy twist, giving cooks the freedom to personalize the dish according to their flavor preferences.
This Brazilian Coxinha Burger recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural journey. By blending the street food nostalgia of Brazil with the global appeal of a gourmet burger, this dish creates a bridge between tradition and innovation. Whether you’re hosting a themed dinner, experimenting with fusion cuisine, or simply craving something extraordinary, the Brazilian Coxinha Burger promises to deliver a unique and unforgettable taste that celebrates the warmth and vibrancy of Brazilian culinary heritage.
Brazilian Coxinha Burger
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups chicken breast cooked and shredded
- ½ cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika smoked
- 1 piece bay leaf
- 1 cup chicken stock preferably homemade
Burger Assembly
- 4 medium burger buns preferably brioche
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 medium eggs beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Optional Garnishes
- 1 small lettuce head to taste
- 1 large sliced tomatoes to taste
- 1 medium sliced red onions to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Add shredded chicken, paprika, bay leaf, and chicken stock. Simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated and flavors have melded, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf.
- Preheat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat to 180°C (356°F).
- Shape the chicken mixture into patties that fit the size of your bun. Dust each patty lightly with flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry the patties until golden and crispy, about 4 minutes per side. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Toast burger buns lightly in the oven or on a griddle.
- Assemble the burger by placing the chicken patty on the bottom bun. Top with optional garnishes such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.