Crispy Batter Mix Recipe

Brazilian Chicken Croquettes are the ultimate savory treat: golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft potato dough and a creamy, spiced chicken filling tucked inside each bite. These little parcels are a favorite at parties and family gatherings—and once you’ve tasted one, you’ll understand why they’re simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list—each ingredient brings something special to the table! These staples come together for Brazilian Chicken Croquettes to deliver a symphony of texture and flavor, from the pillowy potato dough to the juicy, aromatic filling.

• Whole milk: Gives the dough a rich, creamy texture and helps everything meld together smoothly.
• Chicken broth or water: For extra savory flavor in the dough (chicken broth is my preference for depth).
• Salt: Enhances both the dough and the filling—don’t skimp!
• Butter: The secret to a luscious, tender dough as well as to boost flavor in the filling.
• Peeled and mashed potatoes: Provide moisture and that signature fluffy texture to the croquette shell.
• Sifted all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, giving it structure to hold the delicious filling.
• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The classic protein for a moist, easy-to-shred filling.
• Minced garlic cloves: Add a fragrant punch to the chicken mixture.
• Finely chopped small onion: Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
• Paprika: Gives the filling a gentle warmth and beautiful color.
• Cream cheese: Makes the chicken extra creamy and decadent.
• Tomato sauce: Adds a zesty tang to round out the flavors of the filling.
• Water: Loosens the filling to just the right consistency.
• Salt and black pepper: Brighten up and balance the savory richness of the chicken mixture.
• Fresh chopped parsley: A pop of green freshness that brightens the whole bite.
• Milk (for breading): Helps the bread crumbs adhere to the croquettes for maximum crunch.
• Bread crumbs: Essential for that delicious crispy coating.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Gives your Brazilian Chicken Croquettes that irresistible golden crust.

Variations

One of the many joys of Brazilian Chicken Croquettes is just how adaptable they are! Don’t be afraid to get creative with the filling, the coatings, or even the flavors—these are designed for your personal taste (and whatever you have in the fridge).

• Spicy Touch: Add finely diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the chicken filling for a little kick.
• Cheese Lover’s Croquettes: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar with the cream cheese for an extra indulgent bite.
• Vegetarian Spin: Swap out the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and a bit of cream cheese for a meatless version that’s just as delicious.
• Herb Explosion: Try cilantro or chives in place of parsley for a fresh twist on tradition.

How to Make Brazilian Chicken Croquettes

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by combining the milk, chicken broth, salt, and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is steaming. Add the mashed potatoes and sifted flour, whisking or stirring constantly. It will begin as a sticky mess, but keep going! The dough will come together, thickening and pulling away from the sides of the pan. When it’s smooth and pliable, set it aside to cool—this step is key for shaping later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

While the dough cools, make the rich, savory filling. Cook the chicken breasts by simmering in water or broth until tender, then shred them finely. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent. Add your shredded chicken, paprika, cream cheese, tomato sauce, and a splash of water. Stir until everything is well combined, creamy, and heated through. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a shower of chopped parsley for punchy freshness. Let the filling cool so it’s easy to work with.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Croquettes

Once the dough and chicken are cool enough to handle, pinch off a small ball of dough (about the size of a large egg), flatten it in your palm, and spoon some chicken filling in the center. Gently wrap the dough around the filling, pinching it closed, and roll into an oval or teardrop shape. Repeat until all dough and filling are used—you’ll have around a dozen croquettes.

Step 4: Bread and Fry

Dip each shaped croquette into the milk, then roll generously in bread crumbs to coat on all sides. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C)—it’s hot enough when a breadcrumb sizzles instantly. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning for even color, until golden brown and absolutely crispy. Let them drain on a paper towel while you resist the urge to eat one hot from the pan!

How to Serve Brazilian Chicken Croquettes

Garnishes

For a classic touch, sprinkle your croquettes with a little extra parsley or chives right before serving. If you want a hint of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime over the platter is a game-changer. Sometimes, I even add a light dusting of paprika for color and a dash of smoky flavor.

Side Dishes

Brazilian Chicken Croquettes are wonderful on their own, but even better with sides like a crisp green salad, garlic rice, or tangy vinaigrette-dressed veggies. For dipping, try a quick homemade aioli, spicy ketchup, or chimichurri for extra zing!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your croquettes into the star of your next party by arranging them in a wreath around a bowl of dipping sauce. For a more refined approach, serve them in miniature cupcake liners with colorful toothpicks. They’re also perfect nestled in a little paper cone for grab-and-go snacking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover croquettes can be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They hold up beautifully and reheat well, staying crispy if refreshed in the oven or air fryer.

Freezing

Brazilian Chicken Croquettes freeze wonderfully at the breaded-but-unfried stage. Arrange them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen (allowing a few extra minutes) or let them thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking fresh.

Reheating

For the best crunch, reheat croquettes in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the coating can get soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for something crispy, comforting, and full of vibrant flavor, you simply have to try these Brazilian Chicken Croquettes. They’re a true celebration on a platter—simple to make yet impossibly crowd-pleasing. I hope they become as beloved in your kitchen as they are in mine!

Crispy Batter Mix Recipe

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These Brazilian Chicken Croquettes are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavorful chicken filling. A popular street food in Brazil, these croquettes are perfect for snacks or as a party appetizer.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 croquettes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Brazilian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

For the Dough

• Whole milk (1 3/4 cups/450ml)
• Chicken broth or water (1 3/4 cups/450ml)
• Salt (1 tablespoon)
• Butter (3 1/2 tablespoons/50g)
• Peeled and mashed potatoes (2 large/625g)
• Sifted all-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups/450g, or 4 cups/500g if in Brazil)

For the Filling

• Large boneless skinless chicken breasts (2/300g)
• Butter (1/4 cup/1/2 stick)
• Minced garlic cloves (4)
• Finely chopped small onion (1)
• Paprika (1 tablespoon)
• Cream cheese (2 tablespoons)
• Tomato sauce (4 tablespoons)
• Water (1 tablespoon)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley to taste

For Breading & Frying

• Milk (1/2 cup)
• Bread crumbs as needed
• Vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Combine milk, chicken broth, salt, and butter in a saucepan. Add mashed potatoes and flour, cook until thickened.
2. Make the Filling: Cook chicken with garlic, onion, and spices. Add cream cheese, tomato sauce, and parsley.
3. Assemble Croquettes: Shape dough, fill with chicken mixture, and bread. Fry until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 croquette
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 35mg