If you’re in search for a delicious and crispy appetizer that will wow your guests, these Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes are perfect!
With a golden-brown exterior and a creamy, flavorful chicken filling, they are the ultimate comfort food and an ideal starter for any gathering.
Let’s dive into this recipe and bring back the nostalgia of this famous dish.
What so Special About Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes?
Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes are iconic for their perfect balance of crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful interior. This nostalgic dish, served in the beloved Howard Johnson restaurants, brings back memories of comforting, homestyle meals.
The croquettes feature tender, shredded chicken blended with a rich roux, mashed potatoes, cheese, and spices, all encased in a crunchy breadcrumb coating. Ideal as an appetizer or a main course, these croquettes are both indulgent and satisfying, making them a timeless favorite that continues to delight generations.
Ingredients for Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced (~1 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely diced
- 1 green chili, finely diced
- 2 red chilies, finely diced (one deseeded)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 500g boiled and shredded chicken
- 400g boiled potatoes, riced or mashed
- 2 tbsp room temperature salted butter
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Dash of freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Egg whites (from earlier)
Equipment & Tools Required
- Skillet & Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Potato ricer or masher
- Baking dish & Plastic wrap
- Spider skimmer & Cheese grater
- Deep fryer or deep pan
- Bamboo skewers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
How to Make Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add 4 cloves of finely diced garlic and sauté for another minute, making sure not to burn the garlic. Next, add 1 finely diced green chili and 2 red chilies for a little heat and color.
Step 2: Make the Roux
To the sautéed vegetables, add 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in ½ cup of chicken stock, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This creates a creamy roux that will hold your chicken croquettes together.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Take 500g of boiled and shredded chicken (you can use any part, but breasts work well) and stir it into the roux. Season with ¼ tsp of salt, ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, and a dash of freshly grated nutmeg. Mix everything well and then remove the skillet from the heat to allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 4: Incorporate Potatoes, Cheese, and Herbs
In a separate bowl, rice or mash 400g of boiled potatoes. Add 2 tbsp of room temperature salted butter and stir until the butter melts into the potatoes. Mix in 2 egg yolks, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ½ cup grated mozzarella, and ½ cup grated cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy filling. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Shape the Croquettes
Once the chicken mixture has cooled, fold it into the potato mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated. With oiled hands, form the mixture into small balls or logs, depending on your preferred shape. Place the croquettes on a baking dish, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm them up.
Step 6: Coat and Fry the Croquettes
Set up your workstation with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, beaten egg whites, and 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Take each croquette and first roll it in flour, then dip it in the egg whites, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep pan over medium heat. Test the oil by inserting a bamboo skewer—if bubbles rise around the skewer, the oil is ready. Fry the croquettes in batches, about 3-4 at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Drain the croquettes on a paper towel or colander. For a festive touch, serve them with a dollop of ketchup on top, a blistered tomato, and a bamboo skewer to hold it all together. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Creative Serving Ideas for Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes
1. Spicy Aioli: Serve the croquettes with a side of spicy aioli or sriracha mayo. The creamy, tangy dip complements the crispy texture and adds a nice kick.
2. Fresh Garden Salad: Pair these croquettes with a light garden salad made of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. The fresh salad provides balance to the rich flavors of the croquettes.
3. Cranberry Sauce: For a festive touch, serve with a side of cranberry sauce. The sweet and tart flavors work surprisingly well with the savory croquettes.
4. Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce: A warm garlic butter dip adds an indulgent, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy exterior of the croquettes.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Add a side of crunchy, tangy pickled vegetables, like pickled cucumbers or radishes, to cut through the richness and bring a fresh contrast.
6. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw or tangy vinegar-based slaw adds texture and brightness, balancing out the heaviness of the croquettes.
7. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Serve alongside roasted mini bell peppers stuffed with cream cheese or feta. The sweet peppers add color and a fresh crunch to the plate.
8. Baked Potato Wedges: Complement the croquettes with crispy baked potato wedges. The soft, fluffy inside of the wedges mirrors the creamy filling of the croquettes.
9. Chimichurri Sauce: Drizzle chimichurri sauce over the croquettes for a fresh, herby finish. The garlic and parsley-based sauce adds brightness and zing.
10. Tomato Soup: For a cozy combo, pair the croquettes with a warm, creamy tomato soup. The rich broth and crispy croquettes make for a comforting and classic pairing.
URRecipe Community Tips on Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
1. Use Leftover Chicken: Save time by using leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken instead of boiling fresh chicken breasts. It adds extra flavor and cuts down on prep time.
2. Chill the Mixture: After forming the croquettes, chilling them in the freezer for at least 1 hour ensures they hold their shape while frying and don’t fall apart.
3. Oil Your Hands: When shaping the croquettes, lightly oil your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. This will help you form smooth and even croquettes.
4. Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux (flour and stock mixture) is essential for binding the filling. Make sure to cook the flour for at least 1 minute to avoid a raw flour taste.
5. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili according to your taste. If you prefer milder croquettes, use just the green chili or omit the red ones altogether.
6. Bread Crumbs Matter: For an extra crispy texture, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko will give your croquettes a crunchier bite.
7. Test the Oil Temperature: Before frying, test the oil by dipping a bamboo skewer into it. If bubbles form around the skewer, the oil is ready. Frying at the right temperature prevents greasy croquettes.
8. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry only a few croquettes at a time to maintain the oil’s temperature. Overcrowding can lower the heat and cause the croquettes to become soggy.
9. Cheese Substitutes: Feel free to substitute the mozzarella and cheddar with any melty cheeses you love, like Gouda or Gruyère, for a richer flavor.
10. Make Ahead for Convenience: These croquettes freeze beautifully. Shape them ahead of time, freeze, and then fry just before serving for a quick and easy appetizer.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes?
To store leftover Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the croquettes soggy.
Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced (~1 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic finely diced
- 1 green chili finely diced
- 2 red chilies finely diced (one deseeded)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 500 g boiled and shredded chicken
- 400 g boiled potatoes riced or mashed
- 2 tbsp room temperature salted butter
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese grated
- ½ cup cheddar cheese grated
- 2 tbsp cilantro chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Dash of freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Egg whites from earlier
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add 4 cloves of finely diced garlic and sauté for another minute, making sure not to burn the garlic. Next, add 1 finely diced green chili and 2 red chilies for a little heat and color.
- To the sautéed vegetables, add 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in ½ cup of chicken stock, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This creates a creamy roux that will hold your chicken croquettes together.
- Take 500g of boiled and shredded chicken (you can use any part, but breasts work well) and stir it into the roux. Season with ¼ tsp of salt, ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, and a dash of freshly grated nutmeg. Mix everything well and then remove the skillet from the heat to allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, rice or mash 400g of boiled potatoes. Add 2 tbsp of room temperature salted butter and stir until the butter melts into the potatoes. Mix in 2 egg yolks, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ½ cup grated mozzarella, and ½ cup grated cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy filling. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Once the chicken mixture has cooled, fold it into the potato mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated. With oiled hands, form the mixture into small balls or logs, depending on your preferred shape. Place the croquettes on a baking dish, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm them up.
- Set up your workstation with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, beaten egg whites, and 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Take each croquette and first roll it in flour, then dip it in the egg whites, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep pan over medium heat. Test the oil by inserting a bamboo skewer—if bubbles rise around the skewer, the oil is ready. Fry the croquettes in batches, about 3-4 at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain the croquettes on a paper towel or colander. For a festive touch, serve them with a dollop of ketchup on top, a blistered tomato, and a bamboo skewer to hold it all together. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Common queries on Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes Recipe
1. What is a chicken croquette made of?
A chicken croquette is typically made from shredded or finely chopped cooked chicken, mixed with a creamy base such as a roux, mashed potatoes, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into small balls or logs, coated in breadcrumbs, and then deep-fried until crispy.
2. What is the origin of chicken croquettes?
Chicken croquettes originated in France, where the word “croquette” comes from croquer, meaning “to crunch.” They became popular around the world and were famously served in restaurants like Howard Johnson’s in the U.S.
3. What type of appetizer are croquettes?
Croquettes are a savory, fried appetizer typically served as finger food. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients like chicken, vegetables, or cheese and are often enjoyed as party snacks or starters.
4. Can I make croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, chicken croquettes can be made ahead of time. You can shape and coat the croquettes, then freeze them. When ready to serve, fry them directly from the freezer without thawing for a quick and easy appetizer.
5. Can I bake chicken croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake croquettes as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the croquettes on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. What can I use as a binder for croquettes?
A roux (a mixture of flour and butter) is commonly used to bind the filling, along with mashed potatoes, eggs, and sometimes cheese. These ingredients help hold the croquette together and give it a creamy interior.
7. How do I prevent croquettes from falling apart?
To prevent croquettes from falling apart, make sure the mixture is well-chilled before shaping. Freezing the croquettes for at least an hour after forming them helps them firm up, ensuring they hold their shape while frying.
8. Can I substitute other meats for chicken in croquettes?
Yes, croquettes can be made with other meats like turkey, beef, or pork. You can also use seafood, such as crab or fish, to create different varieties of croquettes.
9. What can I serve with chicken croquettes?
Chicken croquettes pair well with a variety of sides like fresh salads, dipping sauces (e.g., spicy aioli, garlic butter), or even a simple tomato soup. For a festive touch, serve them with cranberry sauce or pickled vegetables.
10. What’s the difference between croquettes and other fried appetizers?
Croquettes stand out for their creamy filling, which is typically bound with a roux or mashed potatoes, unlike other fried appetizers that might use batter or breadcrumbs alone. Their smooth, rich interior contrasts with the crispy breadcrumb coating, giving them a unique texture.
These Howard Johnson Chicken Croquettes are the perfect appetizer for any special occasion.
Crispy on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside, they’re sure to impress your guests! Serve them up at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time. Happy cooking!
Feel free to contact us, and be sure to follow URRecipe on Pinterest for a variety of delightful recipes!
Great meal to start
Thanks