City Chicken Made Easy

 

Few dishes capture the heart of Midwestern home cooking like City Chicken. Despite its name, this beloved comfort food features skewers of tender pork and veal, breaded and fried to golden perfection. Born from ingenuity during times when chicken was a luxury, it mimics the look and satisfaction of fried drumsticks. The result is a crispy, juicy, and irresistibly delicious meal that feels like a warm hug from the past.

🧾 City Chicken Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Skewers:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless pork loin and/or veal, cut into 1-inch cubes

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil, for frying

• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

For the Optional Pan Gravy:

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• ½ cup chicken broth or stock

• Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Assemble the Skewers

Thread the cubes of pork and veal onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers, alternating the meats for a classic presentation. Season the skewers generously on all sides with salt and pepper.

2. Create Your Dredging Station

Set up two shallow bowls or plates. In the first, place the beaten eggs. In the second, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Whisk with a fork to blend evenly.

3. Bread the Skewers

Working with one skewer at a time, coat it thoroughly in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a complete and even coating. Place the finished skewers on a clean plate.

4. Pan-Fry to Golden Brown

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded skewers in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms.

5. Bake to Perfect Doneness

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pan-seared skewers to a baking dish (if your skillet is oven-safe, you can keep them in it). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 145°F. This step ensures they are cooked through while remaining juicy.

6. Make the Simple Pan Gravy (Optional)

For a delicious gravy, pour off all but about 2 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet, leaving the browned bits. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet over medium heat and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the City Chicken skewers hot from the oven, drizzled with the optional gravy. They are perfect alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttery noodles.

💡 Chef's Notes & Variations

• Meat Choices: While the classic is a pork and veal blend, you can use all pork for a more accessible and equally delicious version. Beef tips also work well.

• Flavor Twists: Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mix for an extra flavor boost.

• Dietary Adaptations:

  • Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

  • Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or finely crushed pork rinds.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.