Chicken and Beef Croquettes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Beef Croquettes (Pozharsky Kotleti) are incredibly satisfying and versatile. The combination of chicken and beef gives these croquettes a juicy, flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. The croquettes are lightly breaded, fried to perfection, and served golden brown, making them an irresistible treat. This dish is a great way to enjoy the best of both meats in one easy-to-make, flavorful croquette. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, freezing, or serving at a family gathering.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound ground chicken

• 1/2 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 slices white bread (preferably day-old), soaked in milk

• 1/2 cup milk (for soaking the bread)

• 1 egg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• 1/2 cup flour (for breading)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for breading)

• Vegetable oil, for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the bread: In a small bowl, soak the white bread slices in milk for about 5 minutes. Once soaked, tear the bread into small pieces and set aside.

2. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ground beef, finely chopped onion, soaked bread pieces, egg, black pepper, salt, garlic powder (if using), and fresh parsley. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined and smooth. You can use your hands or a spoon to mix, but it’s important to make sure the mixture is well-blended.

3. Shape the croquettes: With your hands, take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into oval or round croquettes. Try to make them uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

4. Coat the croquettes: In a shallow dish, combine the flour and breadcrumbs. Roll each croquette in the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Make sure to gently press the breadcrumbs into the croquette to help them stick.

5. Fry the croquettes: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the croquettes for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

6. Drain and serve: Once the croquettes are fried, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, salad, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 10-12 croquettes

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Herbed Croquettes: Add more fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to the meat mixture for added flavor.

• Spicy Croquettes: Mix in some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Cheese-filled Croquettes: You can stuff the croquettes with a small cube of cheese (such as mozzarella) for a cheesy surprise in the center.

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a combination of mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, and cheese for a veggie croquette.

• Baked Pozharsky Kotleti: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can bake the croquettes at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: These croquettes freeze very well. Once they have cooled completely, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the croquettes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use only chicken or only beef for this recipe?

Yes! You can make these croquettes using only one type of meat if you prefer. Both chicken and beef work well on their own.

2. Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a golden brown exterior.

3. Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the croquettes ahead of time by shaping them and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them before frying for up to 2 months.

4. Can I use a food processor to mix the meat and bread?

Yes, you can use a food processor to pulse the mixture. Just be careful not to over-process it; you want the mixture to be smooth but not too fine.

5. Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! If you don’t have homemade breadcrumbs, store-bought ones will work just fine.

6. Can I add vegetables to the meat mixture?

Yes, finely diced vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and moisture.

7. How can I make these croquettes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free croquettes, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.

8. Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?

Yes, they pair wonderfully with sauces like sour cream, mustard, or a tangy tomato-based sauce for dipping.

9. How do I know when the croquettes are fully cooked?

The croquettes should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check for doneness. The meat should be fully cooked without any pink.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure to fry in batches to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Pozharsky Kotleti (Chicken and Beef Croquettes) are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken and beef in a crispy, golden croquette. These croquettes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a hearty meal for your family or hosting a gathering. With simple ingredients and customizable variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and sauces for a truly satisfying meal!

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