Savory Leftover Chicken Croquettes

Name: Savory Leftover Chicken Croquettes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying; Salt to taste

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 6 min

🍽 Serves: 4

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Transform your leftover chicken into something irresistibly tasty with these Savory Leftover Chicken Croquettes. This recipe is quick to whip up and perfect for using up what you have in the fridge, all while adding a crispy, golden touch to your meal.

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Ingredients for Savory Leftover Chicken Croquettes

Cooked chicken is the star, offering protein and flavor. Shredding it ensures it blends well with other ingredients. Breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour provide structure and help bind the patties. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth and a hint of umami. Fresh parsley brightens the mixture with its fresh, herbal notes. Both garlic powder and onion powder infuse the patties with aromatic undertones, while a dash of black pepper and paprika offer a subtle kick. Eggs and milk further bind the mixture, ensuring the croquettes hold together while frying. Lastly, vegetable oil is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior.

Tips & Tricks

Ensure the oil is hot before frying; it helps achieve a crisp exterior without soaking the croquettes in oil.
If you find the mixture too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to firm it up.
To save time, you can shape the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to fry.

Serving Suggestions

These croquettes pair beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. They're also fantastic alongside a zesty dipping sauce, like aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them in a sandwich with some fresh lettuce and tomato for a satisfying lunch option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?: Absolutely! Feel free to swap Parmesan with cheddar or a smoked cheese for a different flavor profile.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?: You can use dried parsley, but remember to reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the taste.
Is there a gluten-free option?: Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free versions.

Savory Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large bowl and tossing in the shredded chicken. Follow it with the breadcrumbs, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix these together until everything looks well distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the milk until you get a smooth mixture. Gradually pour this into the chicken mixture, stirring consistently. You want everything well combined without being too wet or dry.

Once the mixture is ready, shape it into small patties, around 2 inches wide. These little rounds will fry up nicely. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, it's ready for action. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, frying them in batches. Each side should take about 3 minutes to reach a lovely golden hue. As they finish, transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Finally, sprinkle with salt to taste while they're still warm.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Makes excellent use of leftover chicken, minimizing waste.
Combines simple pantry staples for an elevated taste.
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Deliciously crispy on the outside, tender and savory on the inside.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp paprika

2 large eggs, beaten

1/4 cup milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying

Salt to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, breadcrumbs, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

3. Gradually add the egg mixture to the chicken mixture, stirring until well combined.

4. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

6. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3 minutes per side.