Chicken Croquettes

Here’s a classic and easy chicken croquettes recipe that brings back that old-fashioned, comforting flavor — perfect for using up leftover chicken or recreating those childhood frozen favorites.

🐔 Easy Chicken Croquettes (Makes about 8)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk (warm)

• 1 tablespoon minced onion (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 cup breadcrumbs, divided (for mixture and coating)

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions:

1. Make the filling:

   • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

   • Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux (no browning).

   • Slowly whisk in the warm milk until smooth and thickened.

   • Add salt, pepper, paprika, onion, and parsley (if using).

   • Stir in the chopped chicken and ¼ cup of breadcrumbs.

   • Cook a minute or two, then remove from heat. Let cool slightly.

2. Chill the mixture:

   • Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until firm — about 1 hour. (This makes it easier to shape.)

3. Shape croquettes:

   • Form the chilled mixture into small cylinders, balls, or patties (your choice).

4. Coat them:

   • Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.

5. Fry:

   • Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Fry croquettes until golden brown on all sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).

   • Drain on paper towels.

📝 Serving Tip:

Delicious with mashed potatoes, gravy, or a side of peas — just like the old-school frozen dinner style. Or serve as appetizers with a creamy mustard or aioli dip.

Would you like a baked version instead?

Here's a simple, creamy gravy recipe that pairs perfectly with chicken croquettes — rich, smooth, and comforting:

🥣 Creamy Chicken Gravy for Croquettes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

• ½ cup milk (or half-and-half for richer gravy)

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• (Optional) Pinch of poultry seasoning or dried thyme for depth

Instructions:

1. Make a roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.

2. Add liquid: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure there are no lumps.

3. Season: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional seasoning. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).

4. Taste and adjust: Add more salt/pepper or a splash more milk if needed to thin it.

🍽️ Serving Tip:

Spoon generously over warm chicken croquettes or serve on the side for dipping.

Would you like a mushroom version or a Southern-style brown gravy next?

𝐵𝑜𝑛 𝐴𝑝𝑝𝑒́𝑡𝑖𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐻𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑦 𝐶𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔! 𝐿𝑎 𝐵𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑎 𝐶𝑢𝑜𝑐𝑎