Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Chicken: Shredded leftover chicken adds protein and flavor to the croquettes.

Mashed potatoes: These help bind the mixture together and add a creamy texture.

Breadcrumbs: Used both in the mixture and as a coating for a crispy exterior.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.

Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a mild, sweet flavor.

Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the croquettes.

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

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

When shaping the croquettes, make sure to press the mixture firmly to avoid them falling apart during frying. Chilling the patties in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before coating them in breadcrumbs can help them hold their shape better.

• leftover chicken - Substitute with leftover turkey: Both have similar textures and flavors, making turkey a great alternative.

• mashed potatoes - Substitute with sweet potato mash: Sweet potatoes add a slightly different flavor and are equally binding.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers provide a similar crunchy texture.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: This mixture acts as a binding agent for those who prefer a vegan option.

• finely chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor.

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

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.

• Allow the croquettes to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• For short-term storage, place the croquettes in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, arrange the cooled croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other.
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the croquettes are frozen solid.
• Transfer the frozen croquettes to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat refrigerated croquettes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the croquettes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• For frozen croquettes, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake directly from frozen for 20-25 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy.
• Alternatively, reheat the croquettes in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat, turning occasionally until they are warmed through and crispy on the outside.

• 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 help them regain their crispy texture.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the revived crunch!

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
  2. Place the chicken croquettes in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
  3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.
  4. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken croquettes on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Note: This method may not retain the croquettes' crispiness as well as the oven or stovetop methods.

• 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. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Enjoy the perfectly reheated and crispy croquettes!

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper accurately.

• Knife: Essential for finely chopping the onion and parsley.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and parsley.

• Fork: Useful for shredding the leftover chicken if it isn't already shredded.

• Frying pan: Used to fry the croquettes until they are golden brown and crispy.

• Spatula: Helps in flipping the croquettes to ensure they are evenly cooked on both sides.

• Paper towels: Used for draining the excess oil from the fried croquettes.

• Plate: For placing the croquettes after they are coated in breadcrumbs and before frying.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the croquettes while frying and transferring them to the paper towels.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and parsley ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly shred the leftover chicken and mix the mashed potatoes using a food processor.

Pre-measure breadcrumbs: Divide the breadcrumbs into two portions before starting to save time during coating.

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

Prepare a draining station: Set up paper towels on a plate before frying to quickly transfer and drain the croquettes.