Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

The moment I first tasted Crispy Chicken Croquettes, I was hooked. It was at a friend’s party, and as I popped one into my mouth, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The crunch of the outer layer gave way to a tender filling bursting with flavor. Since then, they’ve become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m hosting a family gathering or just looking for a comforting snack, these croquettes never disappoint. I love how versatile they are—great on their own or paired with a zesty dipping sauce. And let’s be real; who doesn’t love the thrill of biting into something crunchy and delicious?

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
5 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
180 kcal
Protein:
8 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Food Processor, Frying Pan

What Sets This Crispy Chicken Croquettes Apart

There are countless reasons why I adore these Crispy Chicken Croquettes. Here are just a few:

1. Delicious Flavor

Each bite of these croquettes is packed with a delightful medley of flavors. The combination of cooked chicken and spices creates a savory filling that’s hard to resist. The addition of sage gives it a unique twist that sets it apart from typical fried snacks.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

These croquettes are incredibly versatile! Whether it’s a casual lunch, a fancy dinner party, or game day snacks, they fit right in. Everyone loves grabbing a few, making them a fantastic crowd-pleaser.

3. Easy to Make

Believe it or not, making Crispy Chicken Croquettes is simpler than you’d think. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’re well on your way to enjoying this tasty treat. Even novice cooks can whip these up with ease!

4. Freezable for Convenience

If you prepare a large batch, you can freeze them before frying. This means you can always have a quick snack or appetizer on hand, ready to be popped into the fryer whenever the craving strikes.

5. Customizable Ingredients

Feel free to get creative with these croquettes! You can add different herbs or spices based on your preferences. Want a little heat? Throw in some chili powder! Love cheese? Incorporate your favorite cheese into the filling.

What You’ll Need for Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

When it comes to creating Crispy Chicken Croquettes, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in the final taste and texture. Each component complements the others beautifully, resulting in a delightful snack or appetizer. Key players like chicken provide a hearty base, while breadcrumbs ensure that satisfying crunch.

  • ½ onion (white/brown/yellow/red) – Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil – Essential for cooking the onions until they’re soft and flavorful.
  • 1 cup cooked chicken – The star ingredient, providing protein and substance.
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (regular or panko) – Helps bind the mixture and adds texture.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground sage – A fragrant herb that elevates the overall flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • Pinch of pepper – Adds a hint of spice to the filling.
  • 1 egg – Binds the mixture together, giving it structure.
  • 4 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs – For an extra crunchy coating.
  • Oil for frying – Necessary for achieving that perfect golden crispy exterior.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Making Crispy Chicken Croquettes is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll see how easy it is to create these delicious bites right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps!

  1. Finely chop the onion. This will help it cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the filling.
  2. Add the olive oil to a frying pan and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until they become soft and start to color, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. While the onions are cooking, place the cooked chicken into a food processor. Add the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and sage. Pulse until everything is finely chopped and well combined.
  4. Once the onion is ready, add it to the food processor with the chicken mixture and pulse again to combine. You want to make sure the flavors meld together nicely.
  5. Check your seasoning: taste a small amount of the mixture. It might need a pinch more salt—and that’s perfectly fine!
  6. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, crack in the egg and pulse until you have a thick paste.
  7. Fill a shallow bowl with a little water. Wet your fingers and take a teaspoon of the mixture. Roll it into a ball and set aside on a plate. Repeat this until all the mixture is used up (approximately 20 balls).
  8. Tip the panko breadcrumbs into a small bowl. Carefully add a chicken ball, rolling it around until well coated. Place it back on the plate and coat all the croquettes this way.
  9. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F/175°C. Carefully add the croquettes, frying for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown.
  10. Once done, drain them on kitchen paper before serving. If you choose, add about a tablespoon more of oil to a pan and cook them over high heat to ensure they’re heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Texture Tip: Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet; otherwise, the croquettes will fall apart while frying. If it is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
  • Frying Temperature: Maintain a consistent frying temperature. Too low will result in greasy croquettes, and too high may burn them. Ideally, keep it at 350°F/175°C.
  • Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to avoid dropping the oil temperature significantly, ensuring even cooking.
  • Cooling: Let the croquettes rest on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil. This will keep them from becoming soggy.

Expert Tips about Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

For the best results with your Crispy Chicken Croquettes, consider these helpful tips to elevate your cooking experience:

  • Storage: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when needed.
  • Pairing: Serve these croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce like aioli or a spicy salsa for added flavor.
  • Serving Size: These croquettes make for a delightful appetizer or snack, but you can also serve them as a main dish alongside a salad.
  • Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices in the filling to match your taste preferences.

Serving Ideas for Crispy Chicken Croquettes

When it comes to serving Crispy Chicken Croquettes, the options are nearly limitless. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

  • With Dips: Pair your croquettes with a variety of dips like tangy BBQ, sweet chili sauce, or zesty ranch dressing to enhance their flavor.
  • As Appetizers: These are perfect finger foods for parties or gatherings. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.
  • In a Meal: Serve the croquettes alongside a fresh garden salad to add a healthy touch to your meal.
  • For Lunch: Pack a few croquettes in a lunchbox with some sliced veggies and a dip for a satisfying mid-day snack.
  • Seasonal Themes: During the holiday season, these croquettes can be an excellent addition to your festive spread, delighting guests with their crispy goodness.

FAQ

To achieve the best Crispy Chicken Croquettes, it’s essential to balance the ingredients well. The key is to ensure the filling is seasoned properly with spices and herbs like sage and pepper. Also, make sure to maintain the frying oil temperature at around 350°F/175°C to get that perfect golden crust. Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, as it can lower the temperature of the oil.

Absolutely! Freezing Crispy Chicken Croquettes is a great way to make ahead. Before frying, arrange the shaped croquettes on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Crispy Chicken Croquettes pair excellently with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli, ranch, or sweet chili sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad to create a more balanced meal. These croquettes are perfect for parties or gatherings, making them a hit among guests!

Leftover Crispy Chicken Croquettes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F/175°C until heated throughout for that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Conclusion

In summary, Crispy Chicken Croquettes are a delightful treat that brings together crunchy exteriors and savory fillings. They’re not just tasty; they’re versatile and can fit any occasion, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll love the satisfying crunch and delightful flavors!

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

Crispy Chicken Croquettes

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy Chicken Croquettes are delightfully crunchy on the outside and savory on the inside. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these croquettes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making them tonight for a delicious treat!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 20 croquettes
Course: Appetizers, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • ½ onion onion white/brown/yellow/red
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked chicken
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs regular or panko
  • ¼ teaspoon ground sage
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • pinch pepper
  • 1 egg egg
  • 4 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
  • Oil for frying

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Food Processor
  • Frying Pan

Method
 

  1. Finely chop the onion.
  2. Add the olive oil to a frying pan and cook the onion until they are soft and starting to color.
  3. Place the cooked chicken into a food processor, along with the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and sage.
  4. Blitz until everything is chopped. Add the onion mixture and pulse again.
  5. Check your seasoning. It might need more salt.
  6. Once you are happy with the flavor, crack in the egg and then whizz until you have a thick paste.
  7. Fill a shallow bowl with a little water. Wet your fingers and take a teaspoon of the mixture. Roll it to form a ball and set aside on a plate.
  8. Repeat until all of the mixture has gone (approximately 20 balls).
  9. Tip the panko breadcrumbs into a small bowl and carefully add a chicken ball, juggle the bowl about, rolling the ball until it is well coated.
  10. Place it back on the plate and coat all of the croquettes.
  11. Deep fry at 350°F/175°C for around 3 minutes until golden brown.
  12. Drain on kitchen paper before serving.
  13. Add about a tablespoon of oil to a pan and cook them over a relatively high heat. Then add more oil and turn the croquettes.
  14. Drain on kitchen paper before serving.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when needed.
  • Tip 3: Serve these croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce like aioli or a spicy salsa for added flavor.
  • Tip 4: These croquettes make for a delightful appetizer or snack, but you can also serve them as a main dish alongside a salad.
  • Tip 5: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices in the filling to match your taste preferences.

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