City Chicken is a nostalgic, comforting dish that brings the flavors of home-cooked meals to your table. Despite its name, this dish features tender pork skewers breaded, fried, and baked to perfection, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: A traditional dish that evokes memories of family gatherings.
• Flavorful and Tender: Juicy pork cubes with a perfectly crispy coating.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps that result in a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish.
• Versatile: Great as a main course or an appetizer for parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds boneless pork, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Seasoned salt, to taste
• 4 eggs
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Skewer the Pork: Thread 2-3 pork cubes onto each of the 14 (4-inch) skewers. Season the pork with salt, pepper, and seasoned salt on all sides.
2. Prepare Dipping Stations: In one shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In another shallow bowl, place the bread crumbs.
3. Set Up for Baking: Place a wire rack inside a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour water into the dish, ensuring it doesn’t touch the wire rack.
4. Preheat and Heat Oil: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Simultaneously, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F.
5. Bread the Skewers: Dip each pork skewer into the egg mixture, then coat with bread crumbs. Repeat the process for a thicker, crispier layer.
6. Fry the Skewers: Fry the skewers in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to the wire rack in the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to crisp the coating.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, with your choice of sides or dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 7

Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute pork with chicken, veal, or beef cubes.
• Spicy Coating: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the bread crumbs for extra heat.
• Herby Twist: Mix fresh chopped parsley or thyme into the bread crumbs for added flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Why is it called City Chicken?

City Chicken got its name during the Great Depression when pork was more affordable than chicken in urban areas. The skewered pork mimics chicken drumsticks in appearance.

2. Can I use wooden skewers?

Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning during frying or baking.

3. Is frying necessary?

Frying gives the skewers a crispy coating, but you can bake them entirely for a lighter version.

4. What sides pair well with City Chicken?

Mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad are great options.

5. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, bread the skewers and refrigerate them for up to a day. Fry and bake when ready to serve.

6. Can I air fry the skewers?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough skewers and adjust the frying batches as needed.

8. Can I skip the wire rack setup?

The wire rack ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess. If you skip it, place the skewers on parchment paper but expect a slightly less crispy texture.

9. How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.

10. Can I use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs?

Yes, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs work well, but you can enhance the flavor with additional seasonings if desired.

Conclusion

City Chicken is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers tender, crispy pork skewers that embody the heartiness of classic home-cooked meals. Try it today and experience this timeless favorite!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 7 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying and Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

City Chicken is a classic comfort dish made from skewered and breaded pork, fried to golden perfection, and baked until crispy. This hearty recipe brings the nostalgia of home-cooked meals and is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• Protein:
  • 2 pounds boneless pork, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• Seasonings:
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Seasoned salt, to taste
• Breading:
  • 4 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• Cooking:
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 2 cups water

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Instructions

1. Prepare Skewers:
   • Thread 2–3 pieces of pork onto each of the 14 (4-inch) skewers.
   • Season all sides with salt, pepper, and seasoned salt.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to make an egg wash.
   • Place the seasoned bread crumbs in another shallow bowl.
3. Bread the Pork:
   • Dip each skewer into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Roll the skewer in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat the process for a double coating.
4. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place a wire rack inside a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour water into the dish, ensuring it doesn’t touch the wire rack.
5. Fry the Skewers:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry each skewer for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Bake the Skewers:
   • Place the fried skewers on the wire rack in the baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp the breading.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and serve the City Chicken hot. Pair it with mashed potatoes, gravy, or your favorite sides.

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Notes

• Meat Alternatives: For variety, substitute pork with veal or chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Cooking Tip: Double-coating the skewers ensures a crisp, golden crust.
• Make Ahead: Bread the skewers in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with green beans, corn, or a side of coleslaw for a classic meal.
• Leftovers: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispiness.