Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes are a delicious and crispy treat, perfect as an appetizer or snack. These golden-brown croquettes are filled with tender chicken, seasoned to perfection, and deep-fried to create a crunchy outer layer with a savory filling.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup flour (for coating)
• Oil for frying

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
3. Slowly add the milk while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly.
5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
6. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small croquettes or cylindrical shapes.
7. Roll each croquette in flour to coat evenly.
8. Dip each croquette into the beaten eggs, then roll it in breadcrumbs.
9. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat.
10. Fry the croquettes in batches until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
11. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 150-200 per croquette
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fiber: 1g

History and Origins of Chicken Croquettes

The story of chicken croquettes stretches back to the 19th century, with its origins rooted in French cuisine. The term “croquette” comes from the French word “croquer,” meaning “to crunch” or “to bite.” The dish was created as a way to use up leftover meats, and its appeal quickly spread across Europe and beyond. As it traveled, each region added its own touch, incorporating local flavors and ingredients. In the United States, chicken croquettes gained immense popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly at chain restaurants like Howard Johnson’s, where they became a beloved comfort food. The crispy exterior and creamy chicken filling offered a perfect balance, making it a universally adored dish.

The Role of Howard Johnson’s in Popularizing Chicken Croquettes

Howard Johnson’s, a restaurant chain that gained fame in the early 20th century, played a pivotal role in making chicken croquettes a household name in the United States. Known for its wholesome, home-style meals, Howard Johnson’s included chicken croquettes on its menu, quickly becoming a standout item. The restaurant’s reputation for comfort food contributed to the dish’s widespread appeal. The croquettes, with their golden crispiness and rich filling, became synonymous with the restaurant’s commitment to offering satisfying meals for all. Even though Howard Johnson’s no longer operates, the influence of its chicken croquettes can still be felt in the dish’s continued popularity today.

The Appeal of Chicken Croquettes

Chicken croquettes captivate people for many reasons, but most notably, their balance of flavors and textures. The soft, tender chicken filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, golden exterior. This combination creates an experience that satisfies the senses with each bite. Versatile in nature, chicken croquettes can serve as an appetizer, snack, or main course, making them suitable for almost any occasion. Whether enjoyed as part of a casual dinner or at a celebratory feast, they cater to a wide range of tastes, providing comfort and indulgence in one bite.

Customizing Chicken Croquettes

A major draw of chicken croquettes is their adaptability. While the base recipe remains relatively simple, the dish can be easily customized to cater to personal preferences, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients. Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms enhances the texture and flavor, while substituting the chicken with plant-based proteins allows vegetarians to enjoy a similar dish. For a healthier version, opting for baked croquettes instead of fried ones or using whole wheat breadcrumbs can lighten the dish without compromising its essence. This versatility ensures that chicken croquettes can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences.

The Importance of Proper Cooking Techniques

The success of chicken croquettes lies not just in the ingredients, but in the technique of cooking. Achieving that perfect crispy exterior requires precise control of the frying process. The oil temperature plays a crucial role: too hot, and the outside may burn while the inside remains raw; too cool, and the croquettes absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy texture. Maintaining the ideal temperature ensures the outer crust becomes delightfully crunchy without sacrificing the tender filling inside, creating the perfect contrast that defines a good croquette.

The Art of Shaping Croquettes

Shaping the croquettes correctly is an important step in the preparation process, as it affects both texture and cooking time. Traditionally, croquettes are made in cylindrical shapes, though they can also be shaped into rounds or ovals. Consistent size ensures even cooking, and it’s important to allow the mixture to cool before shaping it. This helps the filling set, preventing it from spilling out during frying. The way croquettes are shaped plays a pivotal role in how they cook, ensuring that the final product is perfectly crispy on the outside while maintaining a smooth, flavorful filling inside.

The Role of Binding Agents in Chicken Croquettes

Binding agents such as eggs and flour are essential in holding chicken croquettes together. These ingredients ensure the mixture doesn’t fall apart during cooking. The egg wash coats the croquettes, helping the breadcrumbs stick, while flour provides a light dusting that adds crispness to the final product. These binding agents contribute to the texture of the croquettes, ensuring that each bite is a satisfying combination of crunch and creamy filling. Their role is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the croquettes throughout the cooking process.

Why Frying is the Preferred Cooking Method

While alternative cooking methods like baking exist, frying is the traditional method of cooking chicken croquettes—and for good reason. Frying creates the ideal golden-brown, crispy exterior that defines the croquette. The hot oil forms a barrier, sealing in the flavors and ensuring the interior remains moist and tender. This method delivers the quintessential texture that makes croquettes so irresistible. Although baking is a healthier option, it doesn’t quite achieve the same level of crispiness as frying, which is why it remains the go-to method for creating the perfect croquette.

The Versatility of Chicken Croquettes in Meal Planning

Chicken croquettes are a fantastic addition to any meal plan due to their versatility. They can be served as a main course, paired with sides like vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, or served as an appetizer at parties. One of the biggest advantages of chicken croquettes is that they can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights. Simply heat them up in the oven or air fryer, and you’ve got a quick, delicious meal ready to go.

Pairing Chicken Croquettes with Sauces

Although chicken croquettes are delicious on their own, pairing them with a flavorful sauce can take them to the next level. Classic options include rich brown gravy, creamy béchamel sauce, or a tangy mustard sauce. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or hot sauce work beautifully as dipping accompaniments. The right sauce can complement the savory filling and provide an added burst of flavor, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Chicken Croquettes as an Appetizer

Chicken croquettes make a perfect appetizer, especially for parties and gatherings. Their small, bite-sized portions allow guests to enjoy them without the need for utensils, making them ideal finger food. The crispy crust and flavorful filling are sure to please any crowd. When paired with a selection of dipping sauces, chicken croquettes become even more appealing. They are easy to prepare in large batches, making them a practical choice for feeding a group, and their popularity is sure to make them a hit at any event.

Chicken Croquettes for Special Occasions

While chicken croquettes are often considered casual fare, they can also be elevated for special occasions. By adding fresh herbs for garnish or pairing the croquettes with gourmet sauces, they can take on a more refined appearance, making them suitable for formal events, holiday dinners, or celebrations. Their comforting nature combined with an elegant presentation ensures they can shine in a variety of settings, proving that croquettes are as versatile as they are delicious.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Croquettes

One of the great advantages of chicken croquettes is their ability to be made in advance and stored for later use. Leftover croquettes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, croquettes can be frozen by first placing them on a baking sheet until they’re solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the croquettes in the oven or air fryer, and they’ll regain their crispy exterior and tender filling.

Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Chicken Croquettes

For those seeking a lighter version of chicken croquettes, there are several modifications that can be made to reduce the fat content. Baking the croquettes instead of frying them can significantly cut down on calories and fat, while still delivering a satisfying dish. Using whole-wheat breadcrumbs or ground oats as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs adds fiber and makes the dish healthier without sacrificing its crunchy texture.

Making Chicken Croquettes with Leftover Chicken

Chicken croquettes are an excellent way to repurpose leftover chicken, transforming yesterday’s meal into something new and exciting. Whether it’s roasted chicken or rotisserie leftovers, shredded chicken makes the perfect base for croquettes. This not only helps reduce food waste but also allows you to create a delicious new dish from ingredients you already have. The ability to turn leftover chicken into croquettes makes it a practical and economical option for a quick meal.

Perfecting the Crispy Coating

Achieving the ideal crispy coating on chicken croquettes is key to their success. To do so, it’s important to coat the croquettes thoroughly in breadcrumbs. Chilling the croquettes before frying helps the coating set and ensures it stays intact during cooking. Some cooks even double-coat the croquettes by dipping them in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice for an extra crispy texture. The result is a perfect, golden-brown crust that’s satisfying with every bite.

Cultural Variations of Chicken Croquettes

While the essence of chicken croquettes remains the same, various cultures have put their own spin on the dish. In Spain, croquetas are often filled with béchamel sauce and a variety of meats or seafood. In the Netherlands, beef or veal croquettes are more common. The versatility of the croquette allows it to adapt to different regional flavors and ingredients, making it a truly global dish enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Why Chicken Croquettes Are a Comfort Food

Chicken croquettes have earned their place as a classic comfort food. The crispy golden crust combined with the creamy, savory filling evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The dish’s simple yet satisfying nature makes it a go-to comfort meal, whether enjoyed after a long day or shared with loved ones during a special occasion. The sense of familiarity and home-cooked goodness that chicken croquettes provide is what makes them so universally loved.

Conclusion

Chicken croquettes are a timeless dish that continues to delight people worldwide. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized make them a popular choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking to recreate the iconic Howard Johnson’s version or experiment with your own variations, mastering the art of making chicken croquettes is sure to result in a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.