Brazilian Fried Chicken is one of those dishes that evoke fond memories, the scents of grandma’s kitchen, and family gatherings on Sundays. Easy to make, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is a true classic of Brazilian cuisine.
In this article, we will show you everything you need to know about this delight: from its history, preparation tips, side dishes, irresistible variations, and a complete FAQ to answer all your questions.
Complete Recipe for Brazilian Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of chicken cut into little bird pieces (wing tips, mid-wing, and thigh)
- 5 crushed garlic cloves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon of sweet or spicy paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary to taste (optional)
- 1 grated onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional, for breading)
- 2 tablespoons of wheat flour (optional, for breading)
- Oil for frying
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Place the pieces of Brazilian Fried Chicken in a bowl and season with garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, lemon juice, rosemary, and grated onion.
- Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors.
- If you want a crunchier crust, drain the excess seasoning and coat the pieces in a mixture of cornstarch and wheat flour.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat and fry the pieces in batches to avoid cooling the oil.
- Fry until they are golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Finish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon.
The Origin of Brazilian Fried Chicken
The Brazilian Fried Chicken is a traditional Brazilian dish, very common in bars, family lunches, and parties. Its curious name comes from the way the chicken is cut: into small pieces, reminiscent of the size of little birds. The recipe became popular in the South and Southeast of Brazil, especially in states like São Paulo and Minas Gerais, and spread throughout the country thanks to its practicality and distinctive flavor.
How to Prepare the Perfect Brazilian Fried Chicken
To prepare an irresistible Brazilian Fried Chicken, it is essential to choose fresh ingredients, make a good seasoning, and fry correctly to ensure crispiness without drying out the chicken.
Choosing the Chicken
The best option is to use wing tips, mid-wing, and bone-in thigh pieces. These cuts make the dish juicier and more flavorful. Avoid using chicken breast, as it can turn out dry.
Seasonings That Make the Difference
The seasonings are the secret to a great Brazilian Fried Chicken. Use:
- Crushed garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Squeezed lemon
- Paprika
- Rosemary
- Grated onion (optional)
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator so that it absorbs the flavors well.
The Secret to Crunchiness
To achieve a crispy chicken, drain the seasoning well before frying and, if desired, quickly coat the pieces in a mixture of cornstarch and wheat flour. This creates a light and golden crust.
Fry in hot oil, in batches, so as not to cool the oil and soak the meat. Drain on paper towels.
Delicious Variations of Brazilian Fried Chicken
There are several ways to reinvent Brazilian Fried Chicken, and all are irresistible. Here are some variations that might surprise you:
Brazilian Fried Chicken in the Airfryer
This version is perfect for those who want to avoid deep frying. Simply season the chicken as usual, let it marinate, and then place it in the airfryer for about 25 minutes at 200°C, turning it halfway through. It turns out crispy and flavorful, with less fat.
Brazilian Fried Chicken in the Oven
Just like the airfryer, the oven is also a lighter option. Arrange the seasoned pieces on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a hot oven for about 40 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through.
Brazilian Fried Chicken with Garlic and Parsley
This version features fried garlic on top after the chicken is cooked. The chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a special aroma. Serve hot and with squeezed lemon on top.
Ideal Side Dishes for Brazilian Fried Chicken
Brazilian Fried Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to create a complete meal:
Fried Cassava
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, fried cassava is practically the soul mate of the chicken.
Fluffy White Rice
A well-cooked rice helps balance the dish and absorb the intense flavors of the chicken.
Vinaigrette
Refreshing and slightly acidic, the vinaigrette contrasts with the fat of the fried chicken.
Garlic Farofa
The crunchy garlic farofa is an explosion of flavor and adds texture to the dish.
How to Serve Brazilian Fried Chicken on Special Occasions
You can serve Brazilian Fried Chicken in different settings: as an appetizer at parties, a main dish at lunch, or as part of a barbecue menu. In more casual occasions, serve with skewers or directly on a platter, accompanied by lemon and a variety of sauces.
For larger events, set up a station with side dishes and sauce options such as seasoned mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and garlic sauce.
Sauces That Pair with Brazilian Fried Chicken
Sauces are a great complement to Brazilian Fried Chicken. Here are some that pair very well:
Garlic Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Spicy Sauce
For chili lovers, mix hot sauce with a bit of ketchup and honey.
Barbecue Sauce
Its smoky flavor pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
How to Store and Reuse Leftover Brazilian Fried Chicken
Leftover Brazilian Fried Chicken? No problem! It can be reused in various ways:
- Reheat in the airfryer to restore the crispiness
- Shred and use in pie or sandwich fillings
- Chop and mix with rice, vegetables, and cheese for a baked rice dish
Avoid storing the chicken with lemon already squeezed on top, as it can develop a bitter taste over time.
Fun Facts About Brazilian Fried Chicken
Did you know that Brazilian Fried Chicken has even been the subject of culinary championships in small towns in the state of São Paulo? The love for this dish is so great that some regions have even created festivals featuring different versions: breaded, spicy, with cheese, sauced…
Furthermore, the name is unique to Brazil. In other countries, similar dishes are simply called “fried chicken”, without the characteristic of being cut into small pieces.
Tips for Selling Brazilian Fried Chicken
If you’re thinking of starting a culinary business, Brazilian Fried Chicken can be a great product. It is inexpensive to prepare, widely accepted, and can be sold in portions for delivery or parties.
Presentation Suggestions
- Portion sizes in small containers with side dishes
- Buckets with absorbent paper (fast food style)
- Trays with sauces and decorations of fresh herbs
Invest in good photos and promote on social media to attract customers.
FAQ: Everything About Brazilian Fried Chicken
Can I Make Brazilian Fried Chicken with Frozen Chicken?
Yes, as long as you thaw it completely and dry it well before seasoning and frying.
What is the Best Oil for Frying?
Soybean oil is the most common, but sunflower or canola oil are also good options. Avoid olive oil for frying, as it has a low smoke point.
How to Prevent the Chicken from Splattering Oil During Frying?
Dry the pieces thoroughly before placing them in the oil. This significantly reduces the risk of splatters.
Can I Bread the Brazilian Fried Chicken?
Yes! A light coating of wheat flour or cornstarch makes the chicken even crispier.
What Beverage Pairs with Brazilian Fried Chicken?
A good cold beer, citrus sodas, or even natural juices like lemonade.
How to Tell if the Chicken is Properly Fried?
It should be golden on the outside and have no pink parts inside. A tip is to cut the largest piece to check.
Can You Make Brazilian Fried Chicken in the Microwave?
It is not recommended, as the microwave does not ensure crispiness. It is best to use an oven or airfryer to reheat leftovers.
Final Considerations
Brazilian Fried Chicken is much more than just a dish: it is a symbol of Brazilian cuisine, present in moments of joy, gatherings, and full of flavor. Whether fried, baked, or made in the airfryer, it continues to win hearts wherever it goes.
With so many tips and variations, it’s time to get cooking and prepare your Brazilian Fried Chicken just the way your family or customers like it best. Don’t forget to go all out with the seasoning and, of course, serve with plenty of love.
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