Introduction
Chicken Croquettes with Mushroom Sauce is a timeless dish that combines the warmth of comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair. Baked to perfection, this recipe ensures a crunchy exterior without the extra fat, making it a healthier option than traditional frying methods. Paired with a velvety mushroom sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or an elegant addition to any festive table.
Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Needed Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Food processor
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Small saucepan
- Cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tags
- Healthy
- Oven-Baked
- Family-Friendly
- Gourmet
Serving Size
- Makes 6 servings
Difficulty Level
- Intermediate
Allergen Information
- Contains gluten (cracker crumbs and flour)
- Contains dairy (margarine and milk)
- Contains eggs (egg substitute)
Dietary Preference
- Suitable for low-fat diets with modifications.
Course
- Main Dish
Cuisine
- International
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 6 pieces |
| Celery stalk | 1 |
| Carrot | 1 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Diced celery | 1/2 cup |
| Egg substitute | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup |
| Skim milk | 1/2 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup + 1 1/2 cups reserved |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp |
| Cracker crumbs | 2 cups |
| Mushrooms (sliced) | 1 cup |
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Croquettes
- Combine chicken breasts, celery stalk, carrot, onion, and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken and strain the broth, reserving 1 1/2 cups of it.
- Chop the chicken finely using a food processor, ensuring it stays slightly coarse.
- In a large skillet, sauté diced celery and onion with cooking spray until tender. Remove from heat.
- Mix sautéed vegetables, chopped chicken, egg substitute, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Making the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, mix cornstarch, milk, and 1/2 cup of the reserved broth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and boils. Continue for 1 minute.
- Combine this sauce with the chicken mixture. Shape into 6 croquettes.
Coating and Baking
- Mix cracker crumbs with paprika in a shallow bowl. Roll croquettes in the mixture.
- Place croquettes on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake croquettes for 30 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.
Preparing the Mushroom Sauce
- Sauté mushrooms in margarine over medium heat until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Serving
- Serve the hot croquettes with the mushroom sauce poured on top or on the side.
Preparation Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor.
- For a smoother mushroom sauce, blend it using a hand blender after cooking.
- Shape croquettes uniformly for even baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270.1 |
| Total Fat | 6.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3g |
| Cholesterol | 66.4mg |
| Sodium | 562.3mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18.6g |
| Fiber | 1.6g |
| Sugars | 2.5g |
| Protein | 32.7g |
Tips and Tricks
- Substitute margarine with butter for a richer flavor if dietary restrictions allow.
- Add herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Add-Ons
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Serve with a fresh garden salad.
Side Dishes
- Steamed vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice pilaf
Improvements
- Use whole-grain cracker crumbs for added fiber.
- Replace egg substitute with flaxseed gel for a vegan twist.
Save and Store
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.
Q: Can I freeze the croquettes?
A: Absolutely! Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: Can I use fresh mushrooms for the sauce?
A: Yes, fresh mushrooms work best for a richer flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Chicken Croquettes with Mushroom Sauce recipe is a delightful marriage of textures and flavors, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Whether for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its gourmet appeal and comforting warmth.
References
