If you’re a fan of crispy, comforting bites that combine creamy textures and savory flavors, the Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe is going to be your new obsession. Imagine golden, crunchy potato shells hiding a luscious, cheesy chicken center that melts in your mouth with every bite. This delightful dish brings together simple, everyday ingredients in a way that feels special and indulgent—perfect to share with friends, serve at parties, or enjoy as a cozy snack. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these little pockets of joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From creamy potatoes to succulent chicken and the crispy breadcrumb coating, every component is thoughtfully chosen to make your croquettes irresistible.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: Provides a fluffy base that crisps up beautifully on frying.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the mashed potatoes.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Helps achieve creamy mashed potatoes without thinning them out too much.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the potato mixture and adds a bit of structure.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star protein, bringing heartiness and a tender texture to the filling.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Makes the chicken filling decadently creamy and smooth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a subtle nutty flavor and enhances the savory profile.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color to brighten up the filling.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used to help the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly for that iconic crunch.
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Creates the golden, crispy exterior everyone loves.
- Vegetable oil for frying: The best option for a high smoke point and crisp results.
How to Make Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
Step 1: Boil and Mash the Potatoes
Start by boiling your peeled, cubed potatoes in salted water until they’re tender—usually about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial to get that perfect fluffy texture inside your croquettes. Once cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Then, add butter, milk, salt, and pepper before mashing everything until smooth. Let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature before moving on to the next step. Cooling is key—it helps the mixture hold together better when forming your croquettes.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Chicken Filling
While the potatoes cool, mix up the yummy filling by combining shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley in a bowl. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated into a rich, creamy mixture. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This filling is the heart of the croquettes, packing flavor and richness into every bite.
Step 3: Shape the Croquettes
Take about a tablespoon of the cooled mashed potatoes and flatten it in your palm. Then, place about a teaspoon of the chicken filling in the center. Carefully mold the potato around the filling into an oval or ball shape, making sure the filling is fully enclosed. Repeat until all the potato and filling mixtures are used up. This shaping step might feel a bit delicate, but it’s part of the fun, and trust me, the results are worth it!
Step 4: Coat with Egg and Breadcrumbs
Dip each croquette first into the beaten egg, which acts like glue, then roll it generously in breadcrumbs—panko works beautifully here because it gives you that undeniable crunch. Ensure every surface is covered well; this coating will give you that perfect crispy exterior once fried.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat your vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the croquettes in batches, frying them for roughly 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and achieve their signature crispiness. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let the excess oil drain on paper towels. The aroma at this stage is simply mouthwatering, so get ready!
How to Serve Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle your croquettes with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can also add an elegant touch. A side drizzle of tangy dipping sauces—think ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy mayo—makes these croquettes irresistible finger food.
Side Dishes
Serve your croquettes alongside a fresh, crisp green salad to balance the richness, or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. A simple slaw with a zesty vinaigrette can add brightness that complements the creamy chicken filling perfectly, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests, try serving these croquettes on a wooden board paired with small bowls of different dips for a fun shared appetizer platter. Alternatively, skewer a few croquettes on decorative picks alongside cherry tomatoes and olives for a charming party bite. The versatility of this Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe means you can get creative and make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re cooled completely before storing to maintain their texture and freshness. When you’re ready for a snack or meal, they’ll be waiting and just as delicious.
Freezing
These croquettes freeze wonderfully! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. Frozen croquettes will last up to 2 months and make a convenient, tasty treat whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, the best way to regain that crispiness is to bake the frozen or refrigerated croquettes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture intact. A quick re-fry in hot oil for a couple of minutes also does the trick nicely if you prefer to keep things truly crispy.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time and boost flavor. Just make sure the chicken is shredded finely for the best texture in your croquettes.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you could use ricotta or mascarpone for a similarly creamy texture, though the flavor will be a bit different—both delicious in their own right.
Are these croquettes suitable for freezing before frying?
Yes, you can freeze the croquettes shaped and breaded but uncooked. Freeze them solid before frying, which helps them hold their shape and ensures that frying cooks them evenly.
Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying?
Definitely! Baking is a healthier alternative. Place the croquettes on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
How do I make the croquettes less greasy?
Drain the fried croquettes well on paper towels immediately after frying, and avoid overcrowding the pan during frying to maintain the oil temperature. Baking is also a great way to reduce greasiness without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe that makes it a standout dish in any kitchen. The mix of textures and comforting flavors is crowd-pleasing every time, whether for a casual family snack or fancy gathering. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe, share it, and make it a favorite in your own culinary repertoire!
Print
Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Potato Croquettes with Creamy Chicken Filling offer a delightful combination of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes encasing a savory, cheesy chicken center. Perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, they make an excellent appetizer or snack to impress your guests or enjoy at home.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading & Frying
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water and boil for 10–15 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add the butter, whole milk, salt, and pepper to the hot potatoes. Mash thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the filling during assembly.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: While the potatoes cool, combine shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Shape the Croquettes: Once the mashed potatoes have cooled, take about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of the chicken filling in the center, then carefully mold the potato around the filling to form a shaped ball or oval. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Bread the Croquettes: Dip each croquette first into the beaten egg, then roll evenly in the breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly. This coating will create the crispy outer layer when fried.
- Fry the Croquettes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the croquettes hot as an appetizer or snack with your preferred dipping sauces such as ranch dressing or spicy mayonnaise. Enjoy the crispy exterior and rich, creamy filling!
Notes
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are completely cooled before assembling croquettes to prevent the filling from melting.
- Using panko breadcrumbs yields a lighter and crispier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- The croquettes can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before frying.
- For a healthier alternative, croquettes can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked croquettes.
