Best Easy Chicken Croquettes a crispy, golden brown chicken croquettes with a creamy and savory filling, these are perfect when I want a quick snack, a comforting appetizer, or a tasty addition to dinner. They’re packed with shredded chicken, herbs, cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning, then fried to perfection for that irresistible crunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped parsley
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
In a large bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chopped onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
I mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
I shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped croquettes, about 1 ½ inches long.
I dip each croquette in the beaten egg, then coat it in breadcrumbs.
I heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and once hot, fry the croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
I remove the croquettes from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
I serve them warm with my favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: About 250 kcal per serving
Variations
I like to switch things up by adding different flavors:
I mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier croquette.
I add finely diced cooked vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more texture.
I swap parsley with cilantro or dill depending on the flavor I want.
I bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes if I prefer a lighter option.
I make them spicier by adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy. If I freeze them, I lay them out on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. I reheat from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I make chicken croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the mixture and shape the croquettes in advance, then refrigerate them until I’m ready to fry.
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, I can use canned chicken, but I prefer freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Can I bake chicken croquettes instead of frying?
Yes, I bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken croquettes?
I like to serve them with garlic aioli, ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
How do I keep the croquettes from falling apart while frying?
I make sure the mixture is well combined, and I chill the shaped croquettes for about 20 minutes before frying if they feel too soft.
Conclusion
These easy chicken croquettes are one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. They’re versatile enough to be a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish with a side salad or veggies. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, I know I’ll keep making them over and over again.
Recipe:

Best Easy Chicken Croquettes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy, golden brown chicken croquettes with a creamy, savory filling made from shredded chicken, herbs, cheese, and spices. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped parsley
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ½ cup breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chopped onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped croquettes about 1 ½ inches long.
- Dip each croquette in the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the croquettes in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove croquettes and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Add mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier version.
Include finely diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added texture.
Use cilantro or dill instead of parsley for different flavor profiles.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes for a lighter option.
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicier taste.
Chill croquettes for 20 minutes before frying to help them hold together better.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg