Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Chicken: Shredded leftover chicken provides the main protein and flavor base for the croquettes.

Mashed potatoes: These act as a binder and add a creamy texture to the mixture.

Breadcrumbs: Used to give the croquettes a crispy exterior and help bind the ingredients together.

Egg: The beaten egg helps to bind the mixture and adds richness.

Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the croquettes.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the croquettes.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor.

Olive oil: Used for frying the croquettes to a golden brown perfection.

When shaping the patties, make sure your hands are slightly damp. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands and will help you form uniform croquettes. Additionally, pressing the patties gently but firmly will ensure they hold together well during frying.

• leftover chicken - Substitute with leftover turkey: Both have similar textures and flavors, making them interchangeable in this recipe.

• mashed potatoes - Substitute with sweet potato mash: Sweet potatoes add a slightly different flavor profile but provide the same binding and texture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar crunchy texture and help bind the croquettes.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A mixture of 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons water can act as a vegan binder.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly different flavor but works well as a green herb in the recipe.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for frying.

• Allow the chicken croquettes to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled croquettes in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other.
• Freeze the croquettes on the baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Transfer the frozen croquettes to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date for reference.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
• For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the croquettes lose their crispiness.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Lightly brush the croquettes with a bit of olive oil to keep them moist.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the chicken croquettes in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a nice golden crust.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken croquettes on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until thoroughly heated.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly spray the chicken croquettes with olive oil.
  3. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken croquettes on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Lightly brush with olive oil to keep them from drying out.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

• Frying pan: Used to fry the patties until they are golden brown on both sides.

• Spatula: Helps in flipping the patties while frying to ensure even cooking.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the exact quantities of ingredients like breadcrumbs and mashed potatoes.

• Measuring spoons: For measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as salt and black pepper.

• Knife: To chop the parsley finely.

• Cutting board: A surface to chop the parsley on.

• Paper towels: Used to drain the excess oil from the fried patties.

• Plate: To place the patties on after frying and draining.

• Fork: Useful for shredding the leftover chicken if it’s not already shredded.

• Whisk: To beat the egg before adding it to the mixture.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Shred the chicken and mash the potatoes the night before to save time.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the chicken, potatoes, and other ingredients in a food processor.

Preheat the pan: Start heating the olive oil while you shape the patties to save cooking time.

Batch frying: Fry multiple croquettes at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Use an ice cream scoop: For uniform patties, use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture quickly and evenly.