If you are looking for a comfort food that combines a crunchy exterior with a luscious, warm filling, you have to try this Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe. These golden nuggets are a perfect bite-sized treat that brings together fluffy mashed potatoes and a savory, creamy chicken center, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will win over friends and family alike. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main meal, this recipe truly makes for an unforgettable dish that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient has a purpose, whether it’s contributing to the smooth texture of the filling, the delightful crispiness on the outside, or the rich, savory flavor that makes every bite so satisfying.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: The base that gives the croquettes their soft, fluffy texture.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Helps achieve the perfect mash consistency and adds moisture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning to enhance all flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the croquettes and maintain their shape.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty protein star inside the croquettes.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a luxuriously creamy chicken filling.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a salty, umami punch that elevates the filling.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Brings freshness and subtle herbaceous notes.
- 1 large egg, beaten: For coating and helping the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Adds that irresistible crispy crust.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures a crispy, golden exterior without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
Step 1: Boil and Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until tender enough to mash effortlessly. Once cooked, drain them well and return to the pot to prepare for mashing.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Add the butter, whole milk, salt, and black pepper to the warm potatoes. Mash everything until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Make sure to let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature—this step is critical to avoid melting the filling later on.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Chicken Filling
While the potatoes are cooling, mix your shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a filling that will impress with both flavor and texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Croquettes
Once the mashed potatoes have cooled, take about one tablespoon at a time and flatten it gently in the palm of your hand. Place roughly one teaspoon of the creamy chicken filling in the center. Carefully mold the potato around the filling to form either a ball or an oval shape, making sure the filling is sealed inside. Repeat this process until all the mixtures are used up.
Step 5: Coat the Croquettes
Dip each croquette into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then roll them generously in breadcrumbs, preferably panko for maximum crunchiness. This coating is what gives the croquettes their signature crispy exterior.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the croquettes in batches, frying them for 3 to 4 minutes each, or until they turn a beautiful golden color and become crispy all over. Use a slotted spoon to gently remove the croquettes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your crispy potato croquettes hot, preferably with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, spicy mayo, or even a tangy mustard. These are ideal as a tempting appetizer, party snack, or a side item that everyone will clamor for more of.
How to Serve Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives over the top adds a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma that balances the richness. A light drizzle of aioli or a dusting of smoked paprika can give the croquettes an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pairing these crispy croquettes with a simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast that keeps the meal balanced and vibrant. Roasted vegetables or a light tomato salsa are also excellent choices to complement the creamy chicken filling without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, serve these croquettes on elegant skewers or mini platters lined with parchment paper. You can even arrange them around small bowls of assorted dipping sauces for guests to mix and match. For a fun twist, place them atop a bed of sautéed greens or use them as a savory appetizer tier in a buffet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay delicious and keep their texture well with proper storage.
Freezing
To freeze, lay the uncooked croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
Reheating
To reheat, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Microwave reheating is not recommended as it can soften the crust and make the croquettes soggy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for the creamy filling and can even enhance the flavor since it’s already seasoned from a previous meal.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use ricotta or mascarpone as alternatives. They will still provide creaminess but with a slightly different flavor profile.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option for a lighter version. Arrange the coated croquettes on a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway until golden and crispy.
Can I prepare the croquettes in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the croquettes a day ahead, keep them refrigerated, and fry them fresh right before serving. This makes entertaining much easier.
What dipping sauces pair well with these croquettes?
Classic dips like ranch, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce complement the croquettes beautifully, adding an extra burst of flavor to each bite.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe is truly a little culinary treasure that combines comfort, crunch, and creaminess in every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough for guests. I hope you give it a try and experience the joy of sharing such a satisfying and flavorful dish with your loved ones.
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Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 croquettes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling are golden, crunchy bites filled with a savory blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Perfectly mashed potatoes envelop the rich filling, then are coated with breadcrumbs and fried to crispy perfection. Ideal as an appetizer or snack, these croquettes deliver a comforting and delicious treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Coating & Frying
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 10–15 minutes or until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Mash Potatoes: Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, then mash until smooth. Let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Filling: While the potatoes cool, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Form Croquettes: Once the mashed potatoes have cooled, take about 1 tablespoon of potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of the chicken filling in the center and mold the potato around it to form a ball or oval shape. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Coat Croquettes: Dip each croquette in the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs, making sure they are fully coated.
- Fry Croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), fry the croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the croquettes hot as an appetizer or snack, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch or spicy mayo.
Notes
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cool before forming to help croquettes hold their shape better.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
- Chicken can be substituted with turkey or ham for variation.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and to prevent soggy croquettes.
- Leftover croquettes can be frozen before frying; fry directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
