Chicken Croquettes with Cream Sauce is a timeless, comforting dish that blends crispy, golden-brown croquettes with a velvety, savory cream sauce. These croquettes are made with finely shredded chicken, herbs, breadcrumbs, and a rich binder that creates a soft interior while staying beautifully crisp on the outside.

Paired with a luscious cream sauce, this dish delivers a restaurant-worthy combination of textures and flavors right at home. Whether served for a cozy dinner, brunch, or a special family gathering, this recipe adds a touch of old-fashioned charm and gourmet appeal to your table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it offers the perfect balance of crispy and creamy. Each croquette is packed with tender chicken and subtle herbs, making every bite incredibly satisfying. The cream sauce takes it to another level—smooth, buttery, and rich, it soaks into the croquettes in the best possible way.

It’s also versatile: you can shape the croquettes into patties, balls, or logs and serve them as snacks, appetizers, or a full meal. Most importantly, it’s a comforting classic that feels nostalgic yet elegant.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves warm, cozy, indulgent meals. Chicken croquettes offer a great way to use leftover chicken while transforming it into something extraordinary. The creamy sauce elevates it into a memorable dish suitable for entertaining or weeknight dinners.

Its texture contrast, versatility, and crowd-pleasing nature make it a recipe worth mastering. Plus, the ingredients are simple and kitchen-friendly, making this dish accessible even for beginner cooks.

Preparation & Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 croquettes (2–3 servings)
• Calories: ~380 calories per serving (varies by portion and sauce amount)
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Chicken Croquettes

• 2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded or minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Sauté onions.
2. Make the thick base (roux + milk).
3. Combine with chicken, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
4. Shape croquettes and coat them.
5. Fry until golden.
6. Make the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot over croquettes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Melt butter in a pan and sauté onions until translucent.
2. Add flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking until thick and creamy.
4. Add shredded chicken, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix in breadcrumbs to create a moldable dough-like texture.
6. Let mixture cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

1. Take small portions and shape into cylinders, patties, or balls.
2. Dip each croquette into beaten egg.
3. Roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 3: Fry the Croquettes

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry croquettes for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan.
2. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute.
3. Add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly.
4. Simmer until thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Simmer for 2 minutes more until silky.

Step 5: Serve

1. Place croquettes on a plate.
2. Drizzle warm cream sauce generously on top.
3. Garnish with parsley.

How to Serve Chicken Croquettes

• Serve with the cream sauce poured over or on the side for dipping.
• Pairs beautifully with:
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Buttered peas
  • Mixed green salad
  • Garlic bread
• Great as a main dish or appetizer.

Recipe Tips

• Chill the chicken mixture before shaping to make it firmer.
• Finely mince the chicken for smoother croquettes.
• Fry in medium heat oil to avoid burning.
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a richer flavor.
• Add extra breadcrumbs if the mixture feels sticky.

Variations

1. Baked Chicken Croquettes

• Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

2. Spicy Chicken Croquettes

• Add paprika, cayenne, or jalapeños to the filling.

3. Cheese-Stuffed Croquettes

• Insert small cubes of mozzarella or cheddar into each croquette.

4. Herb & Lemon Croquettes

• Add lemon zest and dill for a fresh twist.

5. Turkey Croquettes

• Substitute shredded turkey—perfect for leftovers.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration

• Croquettes (cooked): Store up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Cream Sauce: Keep for 2–3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Freeze uncooked croquettes for up to 3 months.
• Place on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Fry directly from frozen—add 2–3 extra minutes.
• Cream sauce does not freeze well due to dairy separation.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium frying skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula
• Cooling tray (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken gives better texture and flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and any gluten-free flour for the roux.

3. Can the croquettes be air-fried?

Absolutely. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Why did my croquettes fall apart?

The mixture may need more breadcrumbs or chilling time.

5. Can I double the cream sauce?

Yes! Many people prefer extra sauce for drizzling.

Conclusion

Chicken Croquettes with Cream Sauce is the epitome of warm, comforting, old-fashioned cooking with a gourmet twist. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, topped with rich cream sauce, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy and impress. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, holiday feast, or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this recipe delivers elegance, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. A must-try classic that will quickly become a favorite in your home!