#30

World Rank

Coxinha

Coxinha

Brazil's favorite snack — teardrop-shaped croquettes of shredded chicken wrapped in dough, breaded, and deep-fried. Found in every bakery and bar across the country.

🌍

Brazil

São Paulo

🌶️

Mild 🌶️

Spice Level

💰

$1-3

Price Range

⏱️

Prep Time

Overview

Coxinha, known locally as "Coxinha", stands at #30 in our ranking of the world's finest street food & snacks. Brazil's favorite snack — teardrop-shaped croquettes of shredded chicken wrapped in dough, breaded, and deep-fried. Found in every bakery and bar across the country. Originating from São Paulo, Brazil, this beloved dish has captured hearts worldwide with its crispy, creamy, and savory.

Key Ingredients

Shredded chickencream cheeseflour doughbreadcrumbs

The authentic Coxinha features these essential ingredients: Shredded chicken, cream cheese, flour dough, breadcrumbs. Each component contributes to the dish's distinctive crispy, creamy, and savory character that makes it truly special.

Flavor Profile

Crispy, creamy, and savory

Preparation & Serving

Cooking Method

Shaped into drumstick form, breaded, deep-fried

Serving Style

Served hot as a bar snack, eaten by hand

Coxinha is prepared using the traditional method: shaped into drumstick form, breaded, deep-fried. The dish is served hot as a bar snack, eaten by hand, showcasing the care and attention that goes into every serving. With a mild spice level, it delivers a gentle kick that enhances the overall experience.

Best Paired With

Churrasco
Feijoada
Wine
Local beverages
Fresh salad

History & Origins

The story of Coxinha is deeply intertwined with the culinary traditions of São Paulo, Brazil. This iconic dish emerged from the Brazil food culture, where Shredded chicken and cream cheese have been staple ingredients for generations. Over time, Coxinha evolved from a regional specialty to an internationally recognized symbol of Brazil's rich culinary heritage.

Where to Try Authentic Coxinha

For the most authentic Coxinha experience, São Paulo in Brazil is the ultimate destination. Look for establishments where Coxinha is the specialty, and don't hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Many traditional eateries in Brazil have been perfecting their recipes for generations.

Nutrition Information

250-350

Calories

$1-3

Price Range

mild/3

Spice Level

Prep Time

Cultural Significance

Coxinha represents more than just food—it's a window into Brazil's cultural identity and traditions. Diverse influences from Portuguese, African, and indigenous cultures with churrasco BBQ tradition. Churrascaria rodízio is a meat marathon; feijoada is Saturday tradition

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coxinha?
Coxinha (Coxinha) is a street food & snacks from São Paulo, Brazil. Brazil's favorite snack — teardrop-shaped croquettes of shredded chicken wrapped in dough, breaded, and deep-fried. Found in every bakery and bar across the country.
How do you pronounce Coxinha?
Coxinha is the English name, while locals call it "Coxinha" in Brazil.
What does Coxinha taste like?
Coxinha has Crispy, creamy, and savory with mild heat levels.
What are the main ingredients in Coxinha?
The key ingredients include Shredded chicken, cream cheese, flour dough, breadcrumbs.
Is Coxinha spicy?
Coxinha is mildly spiced. It focuses on other flavor elements.
How many calories are in Coxinha?
A typical serving of Coxinha contains approximately 250-350 calories.
What is the best drink to pair with Coxinha?
Coxinha pairs excellently with Churrasco, Feijoada, Wine.
Where is the best place to try authentic Coxinha?
For the most authentic experience, visit São Paulo in Brazil, where Coxinha originated.
What should I know about dining etiquette in Brazil?
In Brazil: Green card means more meat, red means stop. Lunch is traditionally the main meal. 10% often included; add more for great service