Ingredients

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

For the Chicken Filling:

• 1 tbsp butter or oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 350 g boiled and shredded chicken
• 2 small capsicums (red and green), diced
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tbsp crushed red chilies
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup milk

For the Potato Mixture:

• 650 g boiled and mashed potatoes
• ½ tsp black pepper powder
• ½ tsp white pepper powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3–4 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

For the Croquette Coating:

• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated
• Flour (for coating)
• Egg whites (for dipping)
• Breadcrumbs (for coating)
• Oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in the shredded chicken and diced capsicums. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the capsicums to soften slightly.
• Season the mixture with salt, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and crushed red chilies. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to create a creamy filling. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Potato Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine the boiled and mashed potatoes with black pepper, white pepper, dried parsley, salt, eggs, unsalted butter, and fresh coriander. Mix until smooth and well combined.
• Add the mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the potato mixture and fold gently to incorporate.

3. Assemble the Croquettes

• Take a small portion of the potato mixture and flatten it into a disc in your palm. Place a teaspoon of the chicken filling in the center, then fold the edges of the potato disc around the filling to seal it. Shape it into a cylindrical or oval croquette. Repeat with the remaining mixture and filling.

4. Coat the Croquettes

• Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg whites, and one with breadcrumbs.
• Roll each croquette in the flour, dip it into the egg whites, and coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Repeat for all croquettes.

5. Fry the Croquettes

• Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb; if it sizzles and turns golden, the oil is ready.
• Fry the croquettes in batches, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan. Cook each croquette for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the croquettes from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Serve

• Arrange the croquettes on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or garlic aioli.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The Crispy Chicken and Potato Croquettes are a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Here’s why this recipe has endured the test of time:

1. Versatility: Croquettes can be served in various settings, from casual snacks to elegant appetizers at formal gatherings.
2. Customizable: The filling and seasoning can be adapted to personal preferences, making it a dish that suits all tastes.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, croquettes are a hit with both adults and kids.
4. Economical: Using basic pantry staples and leftover chicken makes this dish budget-friendly without compromising on flavor.
5. Nostalgic Appeal: Croquettes evoke memories of family dinners and festive celebrations, making them a comfort food staple.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg

FAQs

1. Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and place the breaded croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I freeze the croquettes?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked croquettes on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be fried directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

3. What other fillings can I use?

You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or minced meat for a variation. Cheese-only fillings are also an excellent option.

4. How do I prevent the croquettes from falling apart?

Ensure the potato mixture is firm and the croquettes are tightly sealed. Chilling them for 15–20 minutes before frying can help them hold their shape.

Tips for Success

1. Use Starchy Potatoes: Potatoes with a high starch content, like russets, create a smoother and firmer mixture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve even browning.
3. Season Generously: The potato mixture and chicken filling should be well-seasoned for a balanced flavor.
4. Experiment with Coatings: Add grated Parmesan or herbs to the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Serve Fresh: Croquettes are best enjoyed fresh and hot to maintain their crispiness.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store cooked croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 3 months. Thaw slightly before frying or baking.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Repeating

The Crispy Chicken and Potato Croquettes are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or as a comforting snack, these croquettes deliver a satisfying crunch and a creamy, savory interior that’s hard to resist.

Their versatility, ease of preparation, and universal appeal make them a timeless recipe that fits any table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!