Save 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.
I first made these croquettes to enjoy a tasty but lighter snack that still packs a spicy ranch punch.
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
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 Our family loves sharing these croquettes as a party appetizer or a quick snack after school.
Notes
Adjust hot sauce and cayenne to your preferred spice level. Serve with celery sticks and carrot batons for a classic pairing.
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.
Save These croquettes bring a flavorful, crispy snack to your table that’s sure to please everyone.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
It's best to use cooked, shredded chicken to ensure the croquettes hold their shape and cook evenly inside the air fryer.
- → How do I make these croquettes gluten-free?
Replace the panko and plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to keep the texture crispy while avoiding gluten.
- → What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Greek yogurt is a great lighter option that maintains creaminess and complements the seasoning blend.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper in the mixture to suit your preferred level of heat.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these croquettes?
Serve with ranch dressing, a smoky barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli to enhance the flavors and add variety.