simple chicken croquettes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple chicken croquettes recipe

I’ve been making simple chicken croquettes for years, and they’re still a family favorite. The recipe originated in Spain, where it’s known as ‘croquetas de pollo.’

The dish consists of shredded chicken mixed with onions, garlic, and spices, then coated in a light batter and fried until crispy. The result is a delicious, bite-sized snack that’s perfect for parties or everyday eating.

My kids love helping me make the croquettes, and they’re always excited to see the finished product. I love that this recipe is so versatile – you can serve the croquettes as an appetizer, or add them to a bed of greens for a quick lunch.

Plus, they’re relatively healthy compared to many fried foods. The key to making great croquettes is using high-quality ingredients and not overmixing the batter.

This ensures that the croquettes stay light and tender, rather than dense and heavy. I’ve also found that using fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried ones makes a big difference in texture.

Overall, this recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and fun to customize with different seasonings and toppings.

Simple Chicken Croquettes

4.6 from 1976 votes

This simple chicken croquettes recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken and crispy breading. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, these croquettes are easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

1 pound ground chicken
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

For the Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

Vegetable oil for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3Add breadcrumbs to the mixture and combine thoroughly.
4The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when formed into balls.
5Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
6Set up a breading station with three separate bowls.
7In the first bowl, place the flour.
8In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
9In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
10Divide the chicken mixture into 16 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
11Coat each ball in flour, shaking off any excess.
12Dip the floured ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
13Finally, roll the ball in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
14Set the breaded balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
15Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep frying pan to 350°F.
16Carefully place the breaded chicken balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
17Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
18Use a slotted spoon to remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
19Repeat with remaining croquettes, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
20Serve the chicken croquettes hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.
21Enjoy immediately while they are crispy and delicious.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Deep fryer or deep frying pan
Baking sheet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4.5g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the oil temperature remains consistent for even cooking. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Croquettes Works

This simple chicken croquettes recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and fun to customize with different seasonings and toppings. The best part is that it’s relatively healthy compared to many fried foods.

We love serving these at family gatherings or even just as a quick snack after school. The kids adore helping me mix up the batter and shape the croquettes into little balls.

It’s always a treat to see their smiling faces when they take their first bites.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Croquettes

Q: What type of chicken works best for croquettes?

Cooked chicken breast or thighs work well for croquettes. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken if you have it on hand.

Q: Can I make croquettes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the croquettes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

Q: How do I prevent the croquettes from breaking apart when frying?

To prevent the croquettes from breaking apart when frying, make sure they’re coated evenly with the batter mixture and don’t overcrowd the skillet.

Q: Can I bake instead of fry?

You can bake the croquettes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Q: Are croquettes suitable for vegetarians?

No, traditional croquettes are not suitable for vegetarians because they contain chicken. However, you can easily make vegetarian versions by substituting the chicken with cooked vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant.

Q: How long do I keep cooked croquettes in the refrigerator?

Cooked croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them before serving by baking or frying until crispy again.

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