Deep-Fried Creamy Chicken Gravy – Almost Chicken Croquettes

There are two kinds of chicken croquettes. They all have a crispy, deep-fried exterior, but some are firm, meaty, and nugget-like, while others are much softer and creamier. It was that second kind I was attempting here, and I got so close.

To make a long story short, I used too much butter, and milk, and while they did stay together enough to form the signature, golden-brown crust, the inside was positively sauce-like.

I had no intention of turning this classic into some kind of gimmicky attempt at a viral video, but as I ate them, I couldn't help but think of how much they tasted like deep-fried chicken gravy. Yes, I sometimes put a little ham in my chicken gravy.

I've listed exactly what I used in the ingredient list below, and also a second version, which theoretically would come out closer to actual chicken croquettes. I hope you get this, or that, a try soon. Enjoy!

The Deep-Fried Creamy Chicken Gravy Version: Makes about 16 appetizer sized portions 2 packed cups finely chopped cooked chicken meat 1/2 cup finely chopped ham 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped 1/2 cup all purpose flour 2 1/2 cups whole milk 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper pinch freshly ground nutmeg pinch cayenne 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste

The More Like Chicken Croquettes Version: Makes about 16 appetizer sized portions 2 packed cups finely chopped cooked chicken meat 1/2 cup finely chopped ham 6 tbsp unsalted butter 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped 1/2 cup all purpose flour 2 cups whole milk 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper pinch freshly ground nutmeg pinch cayenne 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste

For breading: 2 beaten eggs flour as needed 2 cups bread crumbs