The Comforting Chicken Croquettes recipe is a delightful comfort food dish, perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal with a crispy exterior and tender chicken inside. With a total preparation time of 2 hours and 10 minutes, including 10 minutes of cooking time, this recipe yields 4 to 6 croquettes, making it ideal for a family meal or a cozy dinner for two with leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped (using a food processor is recommended)
- 1 small onion, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- Breadcrumbs for coating
- Fat or oil for frying (about 3-4 inches deep)
Nutritional Information per Serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 332.7
- Total Fat: 20.1g
- Saturated Fat: 10.4g
- Cholesterol: 144.4mg
- Sodium: 377.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 14.1g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugars: 0.7g
- Protein: 23g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in the milk. Return to heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until thickened to form a white sauce.
- Stir in the finely chopped cooked chicken, minced onion, and parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the mixture evenly in an ungreased shallow pan (such as an 8x8x2-inch baking dish) to cool completely. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
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Shape and Coat the Croquettes:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
- Using a 1/4 or 1/3-cup measuring cup, scoop out portions of the chilled chicken mixture to form croquettes.
- Dip each croquette first into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Chill again briefly to firm up the coating.
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Fry the Croquettes:
- Heat the fat or oil in a deep fryer or large kettle to 365 degrees Fahrenheit (185 degrees Celsius).
- Carefully fry the croquettes in batches for about 1-1/2 to 2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Drain the fried croquettes on paper towels to remove excess oil.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Keep the fried croquettes warm in a 350 degree Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) oven until serving time.
- Serve these comforting chicken croquettes hot, accompanied by mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort food experience that’s sure to satisfy.
Recipe Notes:
- Ensure the chicken mixture is well-chilled before shaping to facilitate easier handling and frying.
- Adjust the seasoning of the chicken mixture to your taste preferences before forming into croquettes.
- For a healthier option, consider baking the croquettes in the oven instead of frying, though the texture won’t be as crispy.
This recipe captures the essence of homemade comfort food, combining simple ingredients with traditional cooking methods to create a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Enjoy the crispy, golden-brown exterior contrasting with the savory, tender chicken inside—a true treat for any occasion!
