Chicken Croquettes – Crispy Golden Delights

These classic chicken croquettes are crispy on the outside and creamy, flavorful inside — perfect as appetizers, snacks, or a light dinner. Made with tender shredded chicken, béchamel-style filling, and coated in breadcrumbs, they’re a comforting bite that brings back vintage charm in every crunch!

📋 Ingredients for Chicken Croquettes – Crispy Golden Delights

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk (warm)

• 2 tbsp onion, finely minced

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

For coating:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp milk

For frying:

• Oil for deep or shallow frying

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the roux:
   In a skillet, melt butter. Add onion & garlic; sauté until soft. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.

2. Whisk in milk:
   Slowly add warm milk while whisking to form a smooth thick sauce.

3. Season the base:
   Stir in mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.

4. Add chicken:
   Fold shredded chicken into the creamy mixture. Cook 1–2 minutes until thick.
   Transfer to a plate, cool completely, then refrigerate 30–60 minutes — mixture should firm up.

5. Shape:
   Scoop mixture and form into oval cylinders or balls (traditional croquette shape).

6. Coat:
   Beat egg with 2 tbsp milk. Dip croquettes in egg wash, then coat in breadcrumbs.

7. Fry:
   Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry croquettes in batches until golden brown (2–3 minutes).
   Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauce!

🍽️ Servings

• Makes: 10–12 croquettes

• Serves: 4–5 people as appetizers

💡 Notes

• Chill the filling well so it’s easy to shape.

• Use leftover roasted or poached chicken for convenience.

• You can bake at 400°F (200°C) for ~15–18 min for a healthier option (spray with oil for crispness).

🔥 Tips

• Want extra crunch? Double-coat: egg ➝ breadcrumbs ➝ egg ➝ breadcrumbs.

• Add cheese (Parmesan or cheddar) into the filling for cheesier croquettes.

• Spice them up with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.

📊 Nutritional Info (per croquette – fried approximation)

(Baked version cuts fat and calories by 20–25%)

✅ Benefits

• Great way to use leftover chicken.

• High in protein, satisfying snack or meal.

• Can be prepped in advance and frozen.

• Kid-approved & party-friendly!

❓Q/A

Q: Can I freeze croquettes?
A: Yes! Freeze after breading (before frying). Place on tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip bag for up to 2 months. Fry from frozen (add 1–2 mins extra).

Q: What sauces go well with chicken croquettes?
A: Garlic mayo, honey mustard, chipotle sauce, ranch, spicy ketchup, or cheese dip.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Absolutely — drain well and shred finely before mixing.