Chicken and Potato Croquettes with Gooey Mozzarella Centers

The Comfort of Chicken and Potato Croquettes

Few dishes evoke the comfort of home-cooked meals like croquettes. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, croquettes are a timeless favorite across the globe. This recipe takes the classic croquette to a whole new level by combining the heartiness of chicken, the creaminess of potatoes, and the indulgence of a gooey mozzarella center. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or the centerpiece of a meal, these Chicken and Potato Croquettes Stuffed with Mozzarella are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

A Brief History of Croquettes

Croquettes have an intriguing history that dates back centuries. Originally a French invention, they were designed as a way to repurpose leftovers into something more decadent. Over time, this versatile dish evolved and gained popularity worldwide, with each culture adding its own unique twist. In this recipe, the combination of shredded chicken and mashed potatoes forms the perfect base for the croquettes, providing a balance of protein and creaminess. The mozzarella filling, when heated, melts into a delightful, gooey surprise that adds richness and flavor to every bite.

The Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility and universal appeal. The croquettes are crisp and golden on the outside, thanks to a classic breadcrumb coating, yet soft and tender on the inside. The contrast of textures is what makes each bite so satisfying. The addition of seasonings like paprika, garlic, and parsley ensures that the flavor is anything but ordinary. The mozzarella filling takes it to the next level, making these croquettes irresistible to cheese lovers. When paired with a tangy dipping sauce like marinara or a creamy garlic aioli, the flavors truly come alive.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Another great feature of this dish is its adaptability to various occasions and preferences. For a more sophisticated presentation, the croquettes can be shaped into perfect ovals and served with a garnish of fresh herbs. Alternatively, for a casual gathering, they can be made smaller and served as bite-sized finger food. Regardless of the setting, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly. They’re also a fantastic option for meal prep since they can be assembled in advance and fried just before serving.

A Fun and Rewarding Cooking Experience

The process of making these croquettes is both fun and rewarding. While it may take a little time to prepare the chicken and potato mixture, shape the croquettes, and bread them, the steps are straightforward and beginner-friendly. Even novice cooks can achieve impressive results with this recipe offers a fun opportunity to get the whole family involved—kids can join in by shaping the croquettes and stuffing them with mozzarella, turning it into a delightful and interactive cooking activity.

Nutritious and Customizable

The nutritional value of these croquettes is another reason to love them. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while potatoes provide a good amount of carbohydrates and essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C. By frying them in batches, the croquettes achieve a satisfying crispiness without becoming overly greasy. If you’re looking to make a lighter version, the croquettes can even be baked or air-fried, delivering the same delicious results with fewer calories.

Endless Possibilities for Customization

While this recipe is perfect as-is, it also lends itself to customization. You can experiment with different cheese fillings, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique twist. Adding finely chopped vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to the mixture is another way to boost the nutritional value and add more flavor. The breadcrumb coating can also be customized with different seasonings or panko crumbs for an extra-crispy texture.

A Dish to Share and Enjoy

These Chicken and Potato Croquettes Stuffed with Mozzarella are more than just a recipe—they’re an invitation to create something special. They celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones, turning simple ingredients into an extraordinary dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual gathering, or a quiet evening at home, these croquettes will bring comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to your table.

Get Ready for a Delicious Experience

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat. The moment you take your first bite and experience the crispy shell giving way to the creamy, cheesy center, you’ll know this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Chicken and Potato Croquettes

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Potato Croquettes

1. Prepare the Croquette Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken and the mashed potatoes.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined and form a dough-like consistency.
3. Sample the mixture and tweak the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes to firm up.

2. Assemble the Croquettes

1. Take a small portion of the chilled chicken and potato mixture (about 2 tablespoons). Flatten it slightly in your palm to form a patty.
2. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then fold the mixture around the cheese, shaping it into a small oval or cylindrical croquette. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
3. Repeat with the remaining mixture and mozzarella cubes until all the croquettes are formed.

3. Bread the Croquettes

1. Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes:
   • Flour in the first dish.
   • Beaten eggs in the second dish.
   • Breadcrumbs in the third dish.
2. Coat each croquette by rolling it in flour, dipping it into the beaten eggs, and finishing with a layer of breadcrumbs. Make sure the croquettes are evenly coated.

4. Fry the Croquettes

1. Warm up vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat, reaching a temperature of approximately 175°C (350°F). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden in 30 seconds.
2. Cook the croquettes in small batches, ensuring the pan isn’t overcrowded to maintain even frying. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior on all sides.
3. Carefully lift the golden croquettes with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

5. Serve

1. Arrange the croquettes on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.
2. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup.

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and savory croquettes fresh and warm for the best experience!

Nutritional Information for Chicken and Potato Croquettes

Customizing Your Croquettes

• Cheese Variations
  Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese for a new twist on the classic mozzarella-filled croquette.
• Vegetable Additions
  Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Baking or Air-Frying Options
  For a lighter version, bake or air-fry the croquettes instead of deep frying for a similar crispy texture with fewer calories.

FAQ About Chicken and Potato Croquettes

Q1: Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the croquettes in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. This makes them ideal for preparing ahead or serving guests.

Q2: Can I bake or air-fry the croquettes instead of frying?
Yes, baking or air-frying is a great option for a lighter version of this dish. Simply bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q3: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?
Ensure that the mozzarella is fully enclosed in the potato and chicken mixture, and try not to overstuff the croquettes. Proper breading will also help keep the cheese intact.

Conclusion: A Comforting, Delicious Dish

Chicken and Potato Croquettes Stuffed with Mozzarella offer the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a casual snack, these croquettes are sure to be a hit. With endless customization options, this recipe can easily fit your preferences, making it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy the crispy, gooey goodness that only croquettes can deliver!

Chicken and Potato Croquettes with Gooey Mozzarella Centers

Ouissam Recipes

Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside—these Chicken and Potato Croquettes are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Snack

Servings 4 people

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Potato masher
• Whisk
• Shallow bowls for breading
• Paper Towels

Ingredients

  

• 300g cooked, shredded chicken
• 400g boiled, mashed potatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
• 150g mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan

Instructions

 

• Preparation Steps:

  🥔 Step 1: Mix shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, onion, garlic, parsley, and seasonings in a bowl. Chill for 20-30 minutes.

  🧀 Step 2: Take a portion of the mixture, flatten it, place a mozzarella cube in the center, and shape into croquettes.

  🍞 Step 3: Coat each croquette in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.

  🔥 Step 4: Heat oil to 175°C (350°F) and fry croquettes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

  🌿 Step 5: Drain on paper towels, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

💡 Want a healthier version? Try baking at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or air-frying for a lighter yet crispy finish!
💡 Experiment with fillings like cheddar, gouda, or even caramelized onions for a twist!
💡 These croquettes can be made and stored in the fridge before frying—perfect for meal prep or parties!

Keyword Cheesy Croquettes, Chicken and Potato Croquettes, Crispy Croquettes, Snack Recipes