Save to Pinterest Crispy, flavorful chicken croquettes spiced with ranch seasoning and a hint of heat, made easy and healthier in the air fryer. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
This recipe has become a favorite for entertaining because it is quick to prepare and always delicious.
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Ingredients
- Chicken Mixture: 2 cups (about 250 g) cooked chicken breast, finely shredded, 1/2 cup (60 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup (30 g) ranch dressing, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup (15 g) chopped fresh scallions, 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Breading: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup (30 g) plain breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
- For Air Frying: Olive oil spray
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, egg, scallions, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Step 2:
- In a shallow dish, mix panko, plain breadcrumbs, dried parsley, and cayenne pepper.
- Step 3:
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and shape into small oval croquettes. Repeat with remaining mixture.
- Step 4:
- Roll each croquette in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 5:
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Arrange croquettes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil.
- Step 7:
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until croquettes are golden brown and crisp.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot with extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Save to Pinterest These croquettes remind me of family gatherings where everyone eagerly reaches for seconds and shares stories.
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Required Tools
Air fryer, mixing bowls, shallow dish, measuring cups and spoons, spoon or small scoop
Allergen Information
Contains: Egg, wheat (breadcrumbs), dairy (cream cheese, ranch dressing). Check all packaged ingredients for hidden allergens if necessary.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 270, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 21 g, Protein: 17 g per serving
Save to Pinterest 
This dish is a fantastic crowd-pleaser that combines crisp texture with a creamy ranch flavor. Perfect for any occasion.
Common Questions
- → How do I achieve a crispy texture on the croquettes?
Using panko breadcrumbs and air frying with a light olive oil spray ensures a golden, crispy coating without deep frying.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness of the croquettes?
Yes, you can vary the hot sauce and cayenne pepper amounts to suit your preferred heat level.
- → What can I use to make these croquettes gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives while keeping the panko texture with gluten-free panko crumbs.
- → Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the mixture?
Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative that still adds creaminess to the filling.
- → What dipping sauces complement these croquettes?
Extra ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or a cool yogurt-based dip pair well with the bold flavors of these croquettes.
