Leftover Chicken Croquettes Recipe

Chicken: Cooked and shredded, this is the main protein for the croquettes.

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

Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy coating for the croquettes.

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

Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor.

Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.

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

When forming the patties, make sure to press them firmly to ensure they hold together well during frying. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it. Additionally, for an extra crispy exterior, you can coat the patties in a thin layer of breadcrumbs before frying.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Both have a similar texture and flavor profile, making turkey a great alternative.

• mashed potatoes - Substitute with mashed sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a slightly different flavor and a bit more sweetness, but maintain the same creamy 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: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, which acts as a binder.

• finely chopped onion - Substitute with finely chopped shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in place of onions.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other ingredients.

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

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, but use less to avoid making the dish too spicy.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola 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 if you plan to consume the croquettes within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the croquettes. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the croquettes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the croquettes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat until warmed and golden brown.

• Oven Method:

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

• 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 croquettes in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the croquettes on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry 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 croquettes on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for 10-12 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the outside is crispy.

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

• Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used to fry the croquettes until golden brown.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the croquettes while frying to ensure even cooking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the exact amount of ingredients like chicken, mashed potatoes, and breadcrumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like salt and pepper.

• Knife: Used to finely chop the onion and parsley.

• Cutting board: A surface used to chop the onion and parsley.

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir and combine the ingredients in the mixing bowl.

• Plate: Used to place the formed patties before frying.

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

• Tongs: Used to handle the croquettes while frying and transferring them to the plate.

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

Use pre-made mashed potatoes: Save time by using leftover or store-bought mashed potatoes.

Mix thoroughly: Combine all ingredients in one go to ensure even distribution and save time.

Form patties quickly: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture evenly and speed up the patty-forming process.

Heat oil while forming patties: Start heating the olive oil as you form the patties to save cooking time.