Chicken Croquettes

Featured in appetizers-snacks.

Hey there! Looking at these gorgeous golden-brown croquettes makes me so excited to share this recipe with you. Just look at that perfectly crispy exterior giving way to the most luxuriously creamy chicken filling inside. And that vibrant green sauce? It's the perfect fresh complement to cut through the richness. These beauties are exactly what you need for your next gathering - they're impressive yet totally doable. The contrast between the crunchy coating and that velvety center is absolutely divine. Trust me, once you master these, they'll become your go-to appetizer!

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Updated on Sat, 22 Feb 2025 23:30:36 GMT
Golden brown chicken croquettes with bright green dipping sauce on white plate pin it
Golden brown chicken croquettes with bright green dipping sauce on white plate | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered these chicken croquettes at a small tapas bar in Barcelona, and I was immediately smitten. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy interior was unlike anything I'd tasted before. After much experimentation in my kitchen, I finally perfected this version that captures that same magical combination of textures. The key, I discovered, lies in getting the béchamel base just right and allowing enough time for the mixture to chill properly. The addition of the bright green herb sauce was inspired by my love of fresh, vibrant flavors that complement rich foods.

Why I love this recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. I love how versatile these croquettes are - they're elegant enough for a dinner party but comforting enough for a family meal. The process of making them, while requiring some patience, is deeply satisfying. There's something magical about watching the golden crust develop as they fry, and that moment when someone takes their first bite and discovers the creamy interior is priceless. What really makes me proud is how this recipe helps home cooks create something that seems restaurant-worthy in their own kitchens.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • Chicken breast: Cook and shred finely
  • Milk and butter: For the béchamel base
  • Fresh herbs: For the vibrant green sauce
  • Breadcrumbs: For the crispy coating
  • Eggs: For binding and coating

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the filling
Start by creating a smooth béchamel sauce and combining it with shredded chicken
Chill and shape
Refrigerate the mixture until firm, then form into small cylinders
Coating process
Dip each croquette in flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs
Frying technique
Deep fry at the right temperature until golden brown
Recipe picture pin it
Homemade crunchy chicken croquettes served with fresh green herb sauce | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I discovered that chilling the mixture overnight makes these croquettes even easier to shape. Once, when I was low on breadcrumbs, I tried crushing some potato chips for the coating - it was different but delicious! The green sauce can be varied with different herbs depending on what's available, and I've found that adding a touch of lemon zest to the filling really brightens the flavor.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these croquettes alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also pair beautifully with a Spanish-style gazpacho or a light tomato soup. For a complete tapas spread, serve them with marinated olives, manchego cheese, and crusty bread. A glass of chilled white wine or dry sherry makes the perfect beverage pairing.

Crispy breaded chicken croquettes showing creamy interior beside herb sauce pin it
Crispy breaded chicken croquettes showing creamy interior beside herb sauce | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bread them in advance, then freeze for up to a month.

→ Why is my filling too soft?

The mixture needs to be thoroughly chilled before shaping.

→ Can I bake instead of fry?

While possible, frying gives the best crispy exterior and creamy interior.

→ How do I prevent them from breaking while frying?

Ensure the oil temperature is correct and handle them gently.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it's a great time-saving option that works well.

Conclusion

These chicken croquettes represent the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior gives way to a creamy, well-seasoned interior, while the bright herb sauce adds a fresh contrast. They're ideal for entertaining and can be prepared in advance, making them both impressive and practical. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a larger spread, these croquettes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Chicken Croquettes

Crispy breaded croquettes filled with creamy chicken mixture, served with fresh herbed green sauce for dipping.

Prep Time
45 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: chris

Category: appetizers-snacks

Difficulty: intermediate

Cuisine: Spanish-inspired

Yield: 6 Servings (6 balls)

Dietary: Poultry, Deep-fried, Dairy-containing

Ingredients

012 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded
021 cup whole milk
034 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 01

Create a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour until golden.

Step 02

Gradually add warm milk, stirring constantly until thick and smooth.

Notes

  1. Ensure the mixture is thoroughly chilled before shaping
  2. Oil temperature should be maintained at 350°F/175°C
  3. Can be frozen before frying for up to 1 month

Tools You'll Need

  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Thermometer
  • Food processor
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (milk, butter)
  • Eggs
  • Wheat (flour, breadcrumbs)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Protein: 16 g