Pan Fried Chicken Croquettes are a delightful blend of seasoned chicken, creamy potatoes, and spices, all encased in a crispy golden crust. Originating from the French word “croquer,” meaning “to crunch,” croquettes have become a beloved dish worldwide. They were popularized in America by the famous hotel chain Howard Johnson’s, making them a nostalgic favorite. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these croquettes offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making them a hit at any meal.
Ingredients
For this simple chicken croquettes recipe, you will need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (from boiled potatoes)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring constantly until the mixture is well-blended and smooth.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine Chicken and Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, mashed potatoes, and parsley. Add the thickened sauce to the chicken mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm it up, making it easier to shape into croquettes.
Step 2: Shape the Croquettes
- Form the Croquettes: Take about 2 tablespoons of the chilled chicken mixture and shape it into a ball or oval. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Coat the Croquettes: Roll each croquette in the beaten egg, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring each one is fully coated.
Step 3: Pan Fry the Croquettes
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of bread into it; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the Croquettes: Gently place the croquettes in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Tips and Variations
- Baked Chicken Croquettes: For a healthier alternative, bake the croquettes at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy.
- Flavor Variations: Add grated cheese or chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture for added flavor.
- Potato Substitute: Substitute mashed potatoes with cooked quinoa or rice for a different texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these croquettes with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 croquettes):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
Pan Fried Chicken Croquettes are a versatile and delicious dish that can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Whether you prefer them fried to a crispy perfection or baked for a healthier twist, these croquettes will surely become a family favorite. Share your cooking experiences and any variations you try in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore other recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes for more delightful dishes.