Coxinha

Golden, crispy, and shaped like a teardrop, Coxinha is one of Brazil’s most beloved snacks. This deep-fried delight is filled with shredded chicken (often mixed with cream cheese or requeijão), wrapped in soft dough, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Whether you grab one from a bakery, food stand, or party buffet, biting into a warm coxinha is always a moment of joy.

Coxinha’s history dates back to the 19th century in São Paulo. Legend has it that a royal cook created the snack for a young prince who loved chicken drumsticks but only wanted the thigh meat. When there were no drumsticks left, the cook cleverly shredded other parts of the chicken, shaped the filling like a drumstick, and deep-fried it in dough. The result? A royal-approved creation that became a national obsession.

Since then, Coxinha has become a staple in Brazilian street food culture. You’ll find it everywhere—from casual cafés and bakeries to weddings and birthdays. Each region and family may add their own twist, but the love for coxinha remains the same.

Coxinha is Brazil’s comfort food in snack form—crispy, savory, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect introduction to Brazilian cuisine and a must-try for anyone curious about local street food traditions.

Once you try one… good luck stopping at just one.