Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Name: Leftover Chicken Croquettes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 cups diced onion; 3 cups cooked, finely chopped chicken meat; 1.5 cups seasoned dry bread crumbs; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings:

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups diced onion
3 cups cooked, finely chopped chicken meat
1 cups seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 large egg, lightly beaten (Optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Gather all ingredients.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and saut until translucent, about 5 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped chicken meat, seasoned dry bread crumbs, and two lightly beaten eggs. Stir in the sauted onions until well incorporated.
If the mixture seems too dry to form patties, mix in the remaining egg for extra moisture.
Add the chopped fresh parsley, salt, and ground black pepper to the mixture and stir to combine.
Shape the mixture into small patties, ensuring they are uniform in size.
Wipe the skillet clean, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat.
Working in batches, fry the patties in the skillet until golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 6 minutes per side.
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and serve hot. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful chicken patties!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 276
Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
Saturated Fat: 2g (11% DV)
Cholesterol: 120mg (40% DV)
Sodium: 660mg (29% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 25g (9% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 25g (51% DV)
Vitamin C: 5mg (5% DV)
Calcium: 82mg (6% DV)
Iron: 3mg (14% DV)
Potassium: 285mg (6% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Recipe Author: Jeanne Gold

Overview: Leftover Chicken Croquettes are a delicious and inventive way to repurpose leftover chicken into a satisfying meal. These crispy patties are easy to prepare and can be made with a variety of seasonings and ingredients. They are fried until golden brown and crunchy, making them a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

History of Croquettes

Croquettes originated in France in the 19th century and were initially made from minced meat or fish mixed with a creamy sauce. The dish spread throughout Europe and beyond, evolving in various countries to include a variety of fillings. The idea of using leftovers in croquettes, especially chicken, became popular as a way to reduce food waste. This method of cooking has been passed down through generations, and today, it's a popular comfort food enjoyed in many households worldwide.

Regional Variations

While croquettes are popular in many cultures, each region has its unique twist on the recipe. In Spain, croquettes often feature jamn (ham) or bacalao (salt cod), whereas in the Netherlands, they are frequently made with beef ragout. In the United States, the leftover chicken version is especially popular due to its versatility and the availability of chicken leftovers. Depending on where you are, the seasoning and fillings can vary, with many adding ingredients such as herbs, vegetables, and even cheese to enhance the flavor.

What Makes Chicken Croquettes Different?

Unlike other chicken patties or meatballs, croquettes are typically characterized by their crispy, golden crust and soft interior. The key difference lies in the mixture, which often includes bread crumbs, eggs, and seasoning to bind the chicken together while maintaining a light texture. Croquettes are also fried to achieve the perfect crunch, whereas similar dishes like chicken patties may be baked or grilled. This frying technique sets croquettes apart and gives them their signature crispiness.

Where Are Chicken Croquettes Typically Served?

Chicken croquettes are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. In casual homes, they make for an easy weeknight dinner, often accompanied by sides like mashed potatoes, salad, or steamed vegetables. They are also a popular appetizer or snack at parties, often served with dipping sauces such as garlic mayo or spicy ketchup. In some regions, croquettes are enjoyed as part of a larger meal in restaurants, especially those focusing on comfort food or regional specialties. Croquettes are particularly favored for their convenience, making them a go-to option for utilizing leftovers in a delicious way.

Interesting Facts About Croquettes

The name "croquette" comes from the French word "croquer," which means "to crunch" a fitting description for the crispy exterior.
In Japan, croquettes, known as "korokke," are often made with ground meat or potatoes and are a popular snack or lunch option.
In Belgium, chicken croquettes are often served as a part of a "fricasse" or in a creamy sauce, making them a rich and indulgent dish.
Throughout history, croquettes were often considered a luxurious dish, as they were made with expensive ingredients like fine meats and rich sauces. Today, they are a more affordable and accessible comfort food.

Whether enjoyed as a quick meal or part of a grander feast, leftover chicken croquettes are a delightful way to transform simple ingredients into a satisfying treat. Their crispy texture and savory filling make them a universally loved dish, no matter the region.

FAQ about Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Yes, you can use any type of leftover cooked chicken for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works particularly well, but you can also use chicken breast, thighs, or even leftover chicken from soups or stews.

You can store cooked croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from making them soggy.

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked croquettes before frying them. Place the patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you're ready to cook, you can fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

To reheat leftover croquettes, you can either reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy, or you can reheat them in a skillet with a bit of oil for a few minutes on each side.

Yes, you can use alternatives like panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even cooked rice or mashed potatoes. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts like almonds.

Leftover chicken croquettes can be served with a variety of sides like a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. They also pair well with sauces such as gravy, ranch dressing, or a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard or aioli.

Yes, you can cook the croquettes in an air fryer for a healthier option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the croquettes for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Yes, you can prepare the croquette mixture in advance. Simply refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before forming the patties and cooking them. This can help the flavors meld and make the croquettes easier to shape.

You can customize the flavor by adding different seasonings or ingredients. Try adding herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary, or spices such as paprika, cayenne, or curry powder. You can also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

To prevent the croquettes from falling apart, ensure that the mixture is well combined and the consistency is right. If it's too dry, add a bit of chicken broth or an extra egg. Be sure to form the patties tightly and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.

Comments

Jerry Walker

10/13/2022 02:43:38 PM

Review: I made some adjustments to lower the sodium content, and it turned out delicious! I sautéed two large diced onions in two tablespoons of butter, then added 1.5 cups of Panko crumbs, 3 cups of finely chopped chicken, and seasoned the mixture with 2 teaspoons of poultry seasoning, along with generous shakes of celery seed, dill weed, and freshly ground black pepper. After tasting and loving the flavor, I incorporated 3 eggs and shaped the mixture into 17 patties. I baked them at 350 degrees for 23 minutes on a sheet sprayed with Pam. Each patty contains approximately 30 mg of sodium. They were delicious on their own, but adding gravy would be a nice bonus.

Joseph Perez

07/26/2024 10:14:31 AM

Superb experience! I enjoyed making adjustments based on the ingredients I had at home and feedback from other users. For the onion element, I incorporated 1 cup of sautéed yellow onion, 2 thinly sliced scallions, and some caramelized onion from my freezer. I processed approximately 1 cup of the meat with the caramelized onion in my food processor. Instead of breadcrumbs, I used herb-flavored stuffing and enhanced the flavor with fresh basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. I incorporated 3 eggs but added them after tasting the mixture and adjusting it to my liking. The dish was baked at 350°F for 20 minutes and served with a delicious Garlic Mayonnaise Aioli from this site, which I modified using equal parts sour cream and mayo, 4 roasted garlic cloves, and a hint of smoked paprika. A delectable meal indeed!

Kimberly Martinez

11/11/2024 05:17:20 AM

I have cooked this recipe twice now, both times in the oven. The first time, I followed the basic instructions and added a few spices from the comments. It was decent but nothing special. For the second time, I sautéed onions, garlic, sweet pepper, and celery. I added a splash of chicken broth, along with 2 eggs and some leftover canned mushroom pieces from the fridge. I also included Italian breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese as a dry base, along with salt, pepper, parsley, oregano, and basil for extra flavor. I topped it all off with a thin slice of garden tomato, some mozzarella cheese, and a splash of spaghetti sauce. I prepared the patties in the morning and refrigerated them until dinnertime. Then I cooked them in the oven at 350 for 30 minutes. I served them over a bed of egg noodles, and it turned out to be absolutely delightful!

Helen Adams

10/01/2024 12:29:43 PM

I tried using Italian seasoned bread crumbs and my air fryer to cook patties, but they ended up sticking to the "nonstick" tray even though I sprayed it with Pam. Today, I am trying to fry them in a cast iron pan with oil instead.

Kelly Parker

10/01/2023 07:14:52 PM

Decent starting recipe. Wish I had checked the reviews beforehand. Turned out quite dry even after using 3 eggs. Had to improvise with chicken broth. Planning to enhance it with red peppers next time. Ended up making a gravy with a mix of stock, butter, and flour.

Steven Green

05/20/2023 09:41:49 AM

Review Rewritten: I followed the recipe exactly, using 2 eggs as instructed. My husband struggles with meats, so I decided to buy 1 pound of rotisserie chicken and pulse it in the food processor briefly. (1.5 cups of the chicken amounted to 12 oz.) I formed 8 patties, each weighing 3 oz, and an extra one at 2 oz. When my husband saw our dinner, he divided his patty, added a slice of light cheese to each half, and microwaved them. It was a success as he had no issues swallowing and even asked for another patty from the freezer for tomorrow. Next time, I'll consider adding a bit more moisture to the mixture.

Alexander Hill

11/08/2023 12:18:59 AM

Thank you for providing the foundation for a great recipe. We have the flexibility to include or omit ingredients as we please!

Cook Time: 180 minutes

Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

History of Croquettes

Regional Variations

What Makes Chicken Croquettes Different?

Where Are Chicken Croquettes Typically Served?

Interesting Facts About Croquettes

FAQ about Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe