These crispy and flavorful chicken croquettes are a classic dish inspired by Howard Johnson’s restaurant. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, they feature a creamy chicken filling encased in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)

Directions

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a roux.
2. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
3. Add shredded chicken to the sauce and stir until well combined. Let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Shape the chicken mixture into small, oval croquettes.
5. Dip each croquette into beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
6. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry croquettes until golden brown on all sides.
7. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 15g

History of Chicken Croquettes

Chicken croquettes are a classic dish that traces its roots back to European cuisine, with a history that dates back to the 19th century. The concept of croquettes was introduced in France and soon became a popular dish in many countries, particularly in the United States. Howard Johnson’s, the iconic American restaurant chain, added its unique touch to the recipe, making it a beloved item in their menu. Their version of the chicken croquette was crispy on the outside with a creamy, flavorful chicken filling on the inside, and it became a staple in American comfort food.

The Appeal of Chicken Croquettes

One of the reasons why chicken croquettes remain so popular is their versatility. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they are perfect for any occasion. The combination of a crispy exterior and a creamy interior offers a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor. The creamy chicken filling, seasoned with just the right amount of spices, is comforting and rich, while the golden breadcrumb coating adds a delightful crunch. This balance of flavors and textures makes them irresistible to both children and adults alike.

Cooking Techniques and Their Importance

The key to perfect chicken croquettes lies in mastering a few cooking techniques. First, making the roux—a mixture of butter and flour—is essential for creating a thick, creamy sauce that will hold the shredded chicken together. The roux acts as the base of the filling, giving it structure and richness. Once the sauce is made, adding the shredded chicken and letting the mixture cool ensures that the croquettes hold their shape when formed. The final step, frying the croquettes in oil, is crucial for achieving that crisp, golden exterior. Deep frying at the right temperature ensures that the croquettes cook evenly and retain their crunchy coating without absorbing too much oil.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several ways to tweak the ingredients for dietary preferences or to add a personal twist. For a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use low-fat milk. If you’re looking to make the recipe gluten-free, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Some variations of chicken croquettes also include additional ingredients like cheese, garlic, or herbs such as parsley or thyme, which can enhance the flavor profile even more.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken croquettes can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. As an appetizer, they can be paired with a tangy dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo. If you’re serving them as a main course, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the croquettes. For a more indulgent option, serve them with mashed potatoes or a creamy pasta salad. The versatility of the dish allows it to complement a wide range of sides, making it suitable for any meal.

Cultural Influence and Popularity in America

The chicken croquette’s widespread popularity in the United States can be attributed to its comfort food status and its introduction in iconic American diners, such as Howard Johnson’s. The dish gained favor in the mid-20th century due to its convenience and ability to be made in large batches, making it an ideal choice for families and gatherings. Over time, chicken croquettes became a staple on many restaurant menus and home kitchens across the country.

Nutritional Value and Benefits

While chicken croquettes are undeniably delicious, they also offer a decent amount of protein, making them a satisfying meal option. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the breadcrumbs offer carbohydrates for energy. The addition of butter and milk gives the croquettes a rich flavor, though they can be made lighter with healthier substitutions. While they are a calorie-dense dish, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal when paired with vegetables or a light salad.

Making Chicken Croquettes at Home

Making chicken croquettes from scratch is surprisingly simple, and it’s a great way to bring a homemade touch to this classic dish. By preparing the chicken filling yourself, you can control the seasoning and customize the flavor to suit your taste. The step of breading and frying the croquettes allows you to add your personal flair, whether you prefer a thicker crust or a lighter, crispier coating. While frying adds an extra step, the result is a batch of croquettes that are far superior to store-bought alternatives.

Frying vs. Baking: Which Is Better?

Though frying is the traditional method for preparing chicken croquettes, some people prefer baking them for a healthier alternative. Baking can yield a lighter version of the croquettes, with a less greasy texture. However, frying provides that signature golden-brown crunch that is characteristic of classic croquettes. Both methods have their merits, and the choice depends on personal preference and dietary considerations. If you’re looking for a crisp exterior, frying is the way to go, but if you prefer a lighter meal, baking can be a suitable option.

Perfecting the Croquette Shape

The shape of the croquette plays a role in its texture and overall presentation. While traditional croquettes are oval, you can experiment with different shapes, such as round or log-shaped, depending on your preference or the occasion. The key is to make sure that each croquette is uniformly sized to ensure even cooking. If they are too large, they may cook unevenly, leaving the interior undercooked. On the other hand, small croquettes cook faster but may lose some of their satisfying texture.

Why Choose Panko Breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs are a type of Japanese breadcrumb that is coarser and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs. They help create a crispier texture on the outside of the croquettes. Panko is ideal for coating fried foods because it absorbs less oil, resulting in a lighter, crunchier exterior. While regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute, panko tends to give the croquettes that signature crispiness that makes them so irresistible.

Filling Options and Additions

Although the classic chicken filling is delicious on its own, there are many ways to personalize the croquette filling. For instance, adding grated cheese can create a rich, melty interior, while finely chopped vegetables like onions, peas, or carrots can add texture and flavor. Some variations of croquettes include adding cooked mushrooms or even bacon bits for a more savory twist. These additions can be mixed into the chicken filling before shaping the croquettes, offering endless possibilities for customization.

The Importance of Cooling the Filling

Allowing the chicken mixture to cool before shaping it into croquettes is a crucial step. If the filling is too warm when you attempt to form the croquettes, it may become too sticky and difficult to handle. Cooling the mixture also helps it firm up, ensuring that the croquettes hold their shape during frying. This step may take a little patience, but it will pay off in the final result. You can place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to speed up the process.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Chicken croquettes can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To store them, place the cooked croquettes in an airtight container, making sure they are not stacked on top of each other to prevent them from sticking. When reheating, it’s best to warm them in an oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave to maintain their crispy texture. If you have uncooked croquettes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply coat them in breadcrumbs and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.

Crispy Texture: The Secret to Success

The golden, crispy exterior of the croquettes is what sets them apart from other similar dishes. Achieving this perfect texture requires the right temperature of oil. If the oil is too hot, the croquettes will burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. If the oil is too cool, the croquettes will absorb too much oil, making them greasy and soggy. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it—if it browns in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready for frying.

How to Avoid Oil Absorption

One of the challenges of frying croquettes is preventing them from absorbing too much oil. A few key tips can help with this. First, make sure that the oil is at the proper temperature before adding the croquettes. Second, avoid overcrowding the pan. If you add too many croquettes at once, the oil temperature will drop, and the croquettes will absorb more oil. Lastly, drain the fried croquettes on paper towels immediately after cooking to remove any excess oil and maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken croquettes are a timeless dish that remains beloved for their crispy, flavorful exterior and creamy chicken filling. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of patience, you can create a batch of homemade chicken croquettes that rival even the most famous versions. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor make them a great addition to any meal.