Ah, the classic taste of Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes Recipe! If you’ve been missing those crunchy, creamy delights, you’re in for a treat. Today, I’m going to walk you through how to recreate this iconic dish right in your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cracking!

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you dive into making these fabulous chicken croquettes, you’ll need a few key pieces of kitchen gear:

Deep fryer or large frying pan
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Potato masher
Parchment paper

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground chicken	500 grams
Mashed potatoes	1 cup
Onion, finely chopped	1 medium
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Parsley, chopped	2 tablespoons
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Eggs, beaten	2 large
All-purpose flour	½ cup
Bread crumbs	1 cup
Oil for frying	As needed

Did you know? The original Howard Johnson’s became famous for their ice cream before they were known for their chicken croquettes!

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Mixture

Combine ground chicken, mashed potatoes, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Mix until everything is well blended.

Make sure your hands are clean or use gloves – it’s the best way to mix!

Step 2 – Shape the Croquettes

Scoop about a quarter cup of the mixture and form it into an oval shape.
Continue until all the mixture is used.

A little tip: Wet your hands with some water to prevent the mixture from sticking!

Step 3 – Coat the Croquettes

Dip each croquette first into flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat them thoroughly with bread crumbs.
Set them aside on parchment paper.

Layering the coatings will give you that perfect, crispy texture!

Step 4 – Fry the Croquettes

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large frying pan over medium heat.
Fry the croquettes until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Be patient while frying; keeping the oil too hot might burn the crumbs before cooking the inside!

Additional Tips

Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the croquettes to avoid them absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
If you prefer a less oily option, consider baking the croquettes at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pairing Suggestions

These croquettes go wonderfully with a range of sides. Here are a few to consider:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans
Tangy coleslaw

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	23g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	15g

Note: These values are approximate. Always consult a nutritionist for detailed dietary needs.

Dietary Information

This Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes Recipe is perfect for those on a gluten-free diet—just swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for your gluten-free alternatives!

FAQs about Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes Recipe

What makes Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes so unique?

The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and the perfect crispy breadcrumb coating makes them unforgettable. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Can I make the croquettes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can shape and coat the croquettes, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. They’re perfect for preparing ahead for a party.

How can I ensure my croquettes don’t fall apart while frying?

Make sure to press each croquette firmly when shaping them. The firmer they are, the less likely they are to disintegrate in the hot oil.

Are there any variations to the Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes Recipe I can try?

For a cheesy twist, add a cube of mozzarella inside each croquette before coating and frying. It’ll add a delicious gooey surprise!

What’s the best way to serve these croquettes?

Serve them hot with a side of creamy dip or tangy sauce. They’re great as an appetizer or a main dish!

Can I bake the croquettes instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier version, you can bake the croquettes on a greased baking sheet at 375°F until golden and crispy, about 20-25 minutes.

How long do leftover chicken croquettes last?

Stored in an airtight container, they’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Recreating the famous Howard Johnson’s Chicken Croquettes at home is simpler than you might think. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can whip up a batch of these delightful croquettes that’ll bring back fond memories or create new ones. Give them a try, and I promise, your taste buds will thank you!

Feel free to leave any comments, questions, or feedback below. Let’s hear how your croquettes turned out, or share your own twists on this classic recipe!

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