City chicken might sound like a poultry dish, but it’s actually a clever and tasty creation made with pork or veal, skewered and breaded to resemble chicken drumsticks. This hearty dish has roots in Polish-American communities and offers a satisfying alternative to fried chicken, especially when chicken was once expensive or hard to find. If you’re curious about how to make city chicken, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the simple yet delicious steps to create this nostalgic favorite.
What Is City Chicken?
Despite the name, city chicken contains no chicken at all. It’s traditionally made with pork or veal cubes threaded onto wooden skewers, breaded, fried, and then baked. The dish was born in the early 20th century in cities like Detroit and Chicago, where Polish immigrants used affordable cuts of meat to mimic the experience of eating chicken drumsticks without the cost. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 3 pounds of pork tenderloin (or veal if you prefer)
– Salt, pepper, paprika, granulated garlic, and dried marjoram (for seasoning)
– 2 eggs
– Flour
– Breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
– Wooden skewers
Step-by-Step Guide to Making City Chicken
1. Prepare the Meat
Start by cutting your pork tenderloin into bite-sized cubes, about 1½ to 2 inches each. Mix together your seasonings—salt, pepper, paprika, granulated garlic, and marjoram—and coat the meat thoroughly. For best flavor, refrigerate the seasoned meat for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step helps the spices soak in and makes the meat more flavorful.
2. Skewer the Meat
Thread 3 to 4 cubes of the seasoned pork onto each wooden skewer. Press the cubes firmly together at one end to help them hold their shape during cooking. These skewers will mimic the look of chicken drumsticks, giving the dish its unique charm.
3. Bread the Skewers
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each skewer first in the flour mixture, then coat it in the egg wash, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more.
4. Fry the Skewers
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded skewers for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking the meat through at this stage; the goal is to create a crispy crust.
5. Bake to Finish Cooking
Transfer the browned skewers to an oven-safe dish or skillet. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This step ensures the meat cooks fully and becomes tender. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to let the coating crisp up even more.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your city chicken hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Some people like to drizzle gravy or barbecue sauce on top, but it’s delicious on its own too.
Tips for Perfect City Chicken
– Use pork tenderloin for tender, juicy bites or veal for a more delicate flavor.
– Don’t skip seasoning the meat well; it makes a big difference in taste.
– If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the skewers to a baking dish after frying.
– For a twist, try making a simple gravy from the pan drippings to serve alongside.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated, or even frozen for up to three months.
Variations to Try
– Chicken version: For a lighter take, use chicken breast or thighs cut into cubes.
– Vegetarian option: Firm halloumi cheese or pressed tofu can be breaded and cooked the same way for a meatless version.
– Spice it up: Add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
City chicken is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe brings a taste of history and home to your table.
Enjoy your homemade city chicken and the smiles it brings!
City chicken is a simple, delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal with a rich cultural history. Give it a try and savor every bite!