Chicken croquettes are a crispy, golden-brown treat that’s soft and flavorful on the inside. They’re perfect for transforming leftover chicken into a family favorite dish. Serve them as a main course, appetizer, or side dish, paired with a tangy remoulade sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
For the Remoulade Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon dill pickle juice
For the Chicken Croquettes:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup hot milk
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Neutral oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Remoulade Sauce
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken Mixture
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and thyme, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden.
- Gradually stir in hot milk, then add Creole seasoning. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped chicken, salt, and pepper.
- Let the mixture cool in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Form and Coat the Croquettes
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (177°C).
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture, roll into a ball, and shape into croquettes.
- Dredge each croquette in breadcrumbs, dip in beaten eggs, and coat again in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Croquettes
- Fry croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with remoulade sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
These versatile croquettes are an easy, delicious way to elevate leftover chicken into a crispy and creamy masterpiece! Perfect for any occasion, they’re a must-try dish.
The Perfect Way to Repurpose Leftover Chicken
One of the greatest advantages of chicken croquettes is their ability to transform leftovers into a gourmet experience. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at leftover roasted chicken or shredded chicken with no inspiration, croquettes are the answer. The finely chopped chicken combines seamlessly with a creamy roux base, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful.
Not only do chicken croquettes minimize food waste, but they also provide a creative outlet for experimenting with flavors. By incorporating spices like Creole seasoning or adding herbs such as thyme, you can customize the taste to suit your preferences. The golden-brown coating and tender interior make them universally appealing, whether served to picky kids or discerning adults.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Chicken croquettes are remarkably adaptable, making them suitable for a variety of settings. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, preparing hors d’oeuvres for a party, or even looking for a satisfying snack, croquettes fit the bill. Their bite-sized shape and portability also make them an excellent option for picnics or potlucks.
Pairing croquettes with a flavorful dipping sauce, such as remoulade, elevates the dish further. The tangy, creamy sauce complements the crispy texture and savory flavors of the croquettes. Alternatively, they can be served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a larger meal with mashed potatoes and gravy.
The Science Behind Their Irresistible Texture
The hallmark of a great chicken croquette lies in its perfect texture—a crispy, golden crust encasing a creamy and flavorful interior. Achieving this requires a few key techniques:
- Double Coating: The double coating of breadcrumbs ensures a robust exterior that won’t crack or leak during frying. The process of dredging, dipping in egg, and coating again creates a protective barrier.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the frying oil at the correct temperature, around 350°F (177°C), is crucial. Too low, and the croquettes absorb excess oil, becoming greasy; too high, and the exterior burns before the interior heats through.
- Roux-Based Filling: The use of a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) combined with milk ensures a creamy, cohesive filling that holds its shape while still being delightfully tender.
These techniques are what make croquettes a true culinary art form, rewarding cooks with a dish that looks and tastes professional.
Cultural Variations of Croquettes
While chicken croquettes hold a special place in American and French cuisine, other cultures have developed their own versions. In Spain, croquetas are often made with ham (jamón), seafood, or cheese, using a béchamel filling. Japanese korokke feature mashed potatoes and ground meat, coated in panko breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy finish.
In South America, particularly in Brazil, coxinha is a popular variation. These teardrop-shaped snacks are filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, then deep-fried to perfection. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, croquettes are made with ground meat, vegetables, and occasionally sweet potato, showcasing the dish’s adaptability to local ingredients.
Each variation highlights the universal appeal of croquettes and their ability to bring comfort and satisfaction, regardless of cultural context.
Why Chicken Croquettes Deserve a Spot on Your Table
In today’s fast-paced world, chicken croquettes offer the perfect combination of convenience and culinary sophistication. They’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. With their crunchy exterior and creamy interior, they strike a balance that few dishes can match.
Moreover, croquettes can be made ahead of time and frozen for future use. Simply prepare the mixture, shape the croquettes, and freeze them before frying. This makes them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Whether served as a casual snack or a gourmet appetizer, chicken croquettes are guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
While chicken croquettes shine on their own, thoughtful accompaniments can take them to the next level. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Beyond remoulade, consider offering aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or honey mustard for variety.
- Side Dishes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or a refreshing cucumber salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light lager pairs wonderfully with the richness of croquettes.
For those who prefer a heartier meal, consider incorporating croquettes into a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of remoulade for a handheld treat.
Conclusion: A Dish That Delivers on Every Level
Chicken croquettes are more than just a delicious dish; they’re a testament to culinary ingenuity. By turning simple ingredients into a crispy, creamy masterpiece, they prove that comfort food can be both elegant and practical. Whether you’re a home cook looking to reduce food waste, a host aiming to impress guests, or simply someone craving a satisfying bite, chicken croquettes are the perfect choice.
Their adaptability, ease of preparation, and undeniable flavor make them a must-try recipe for any kitchen. With every crispy bite, chicken croquettes promise satisfaction and a sense of warmth that only truly great comfort food can provide.