Golden, crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside—these Potato and Chicken Doughnuts are a fun, savory twist on classic comfort food. Made with shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and mozzarella cheese, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party finger food. Best of all, you can fry them or air fry them for a lighter option.
Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use leftover chicken or an eye-catching recipe for Pinterest, these savory chicken doughnuts deliver big on flavor, texture, and crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- Great use for leftover chicken and potatoes
- Can be fried or air fried
- Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep
- Fun shape that kids and guests love
What Are Savory Chicken Doughnuts?
Unlike sweet doughnuts, these are made from a mashed potato and chicken mixture, shaped like doughnuts, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden. The doughnut shape helps them cook evenly and gives extra crispy edges—plus, they look amazing on a serving platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Doughnuts
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, boiled and shredded
- 6 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- ½ cup carrots, finely diced and boiled
- ½ cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- ½ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chicken powder
- 2–3 Serrano peppers, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Oil, for frying
For Coating
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup water (to make a thick slurry)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl – Holds all ingredients and allows proper mixing so the dough sticks together
- Potato masher or fork – Used to mash potatoes smoothly (lumps can cause cracking)
- Sharp knife & cutting board – For finely chopping vegetables so they blend evenly
- Measuring cups & spoons – Ensure balanced seasoning and correct texture
- Tray or baking sheet – Holds shaped doughnuts during freezing
- Frying pan or deep skillet – Provides even heat for frying
- Tongs or slotted spoon – Safely flips and removes doughnuts from hot oil
- Air fryer (optional) – For a lighter, less oily cooking method
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Doughnut Mixture
In a large bowl, add the mashed potatoes, shredded chicken, boiled carrots, bell peppers, green onions, Serrano peppers (if using), parsley, egg, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, chicken powder, and mozzarella cheese.
Mix thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and well combined. This stickiness helps the doughnuts hold their shape.
2. Make the Coating Station
- In one bowl, mix flour and water to form a thick paste (slurry).
- In another bowl, add the bread crumbs.
This double coating ensures a crunchy exterior.
3. How to Shape Doughnuts (Including the Middle Hole)
Method 1: Finger Method (Easiest)
- Scoop a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Use your thumb or index finger to gently poke through the center.
- Slowly rotate and widen the hole until it looks like a doughnut.
Method 2: Bottle Cap or Small Lid
- Flatten the mixture into a small patty.
- Press a clean bottle cap or small round lid into the center.
- Remove gently to create a neat hole.
👉 Tip: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.
4. Freeze for Firmness
Place the shaped doughnuts on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes.
This step helps them firm up and prevents breaking during frying or air frying.
5. Coat the Doughnuts
Dip each doughnut into the flour slurry, then coat evenly with bread crumbs.
At this stage, you can freeze them again for later use if desired.
6. Frying Method
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Fry doughnuts in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping gently, until golden brown and crispy.
⚠️ Do not overcrowd the pan—this keeps them crispy and evenly cooked.
7. Air Fryer Method
Lightly spray doughnuts with oil.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Mash potatoes smoothly for a uniform texture
- Freeze before frying to keep the shape intact
- Finely chop vegetables to prevent breakage
- Use mozzarella for the best melt and stretch
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes or extra Serrano peppers
- Cheese swap: Try cheddar or mozzarella-cheddar blend
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs
- No-fry option: Stick to air frying only
What to Serve With Potato and Chicken Doughnuts
- Garlic mayo or spicy ketchup
- Sweet chili sauce
- Fresh salad
- Coleslaw
- Tomato or yogurt-based dipping sauce
Storage & Reheating
Storage & Reheating- Refrigerator: Store cooked doughnuts for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked, coated doughnuts for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Air fry or oven-bake until heated through and crispy
Nutrition Benefits
- High in protein from chicken and cheese
- Potatoes provide energy and fiber
- Balanced mix of carbs, protein, and fats
- Can be made lighter using the air fryer
Learn More:
- Crispy Chilli Beef Fried Rice (Easy 20-Minute Takeaway-Style Dinner)
- Herb-Roasted Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Glazed Carrots (Comforting Homemade Dinner)
- Creamy Marry Me Chicken with Crispy Hasselback Potatoes & Broccolini
Final Thoughts
These Potato and Chicken Doughnuts are crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly fun to eat. Perfect for snacks, parties, or meal prep, they’re guaranteed to stand out on your table—and on Pinterest.
👉 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below 👇
