Introduction:
City Chicken, despite its name, is a beloved Polish-American dish traditionally made with pork or veal skewered and cooked to mimic fried chicken. Born out of necessity in times when chicken was more expensive than pork, this recipe became a staple in Midwest and Polish-American households. Each skewer is breaded, fried, and then baked to crispy perfection, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal. Let’s bring this nostalgic dish to life!
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Skewers
- 1 lb (450 g) pork (or a mix of pork and veal), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For Breading and Coating
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Oil for frying
Optional Seasoning for Baking
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth (for extra flavor and moisture while baking)
Tips for Success
- Use sturdy skewers: Soak the skewers well so they won’t burn while frying and baking.
- Season generously: City Chicken is best with a good balance of spices, so don’t shy away from adding extra seasoning to the breadcrumbs.
- Choose the right frying oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, for even cooking and a golden crust.
How to Make and Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Thread 4-5 pieces of pork (or pork and veal mix) onto each skewer.
- Bread the Skewers
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Dredge each skewer in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coating.
- Fry the Skewers
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry each skewer for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake to Finish
- Pour a little broth around the skewers in the baking dish for added moisture, then cover with foil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the meat is tender and cooked through.
- Serve
- Serve City Chicken skewers warm, alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side of sauerkraut.
Description
City Chicken is a comforting, nostalgic dish featuring crispy, breaded pork or veal skewers. Each bite is juicy on the inside with a deliciously golden crust on the outside. Though not actually chicken, these skewers offer a rich, savory taste reminiscent of classic fried chicken, making them a family favorite.
Nutritional Information
(per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Conclusion and Recommendation
City Chicken is a fantastic example of a simple, yet satisfying dish that tells a story of resourcefulness and cultural tradition. It’s a perfect recipe for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, giving everyone a chance to enjoy this unique Polish-American classic. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to bring a smile to everyone at the table. Enjoy!