City Chicken
City chicken might not taste exactly like country-fried chicken, but trust me, it’s just as addictive.
Ever heard of city chicken? If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat. Don’t be fooled by its name! While they look a little bit similar, city chicken and fried chicken are nowhere near the same. But don’t worry, city chicken is equally delicious and impossible to resist. Dying to find out what this dish truly is? Let’s begin!
City Chicken
Contrary to its name, city chicken is a dish made of battered and deep-fried pork cutlets. A Polish-American recipe that originated in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, this dish goes all the way back to the Depression Era.
What Exactly Is City Chicken?
Also called mock chicken, city chicken does not contain an ounce of chicken in it. Instead, it’s a battered deep-fried dish made of… wait for it… pork. Cubes of pork are threaded into skewers, seasoned, dredged in eggs and bread crumbs, flash-fried, and baked. The result is a beautifully golden treat that, if you maybe squint your eyes, looks somewhat like a fried chicken leg.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
City chicken is a delicious and unique twist on the classic fried chicken. It’s perfect for those who love crispy, juicy, and flavorful dishes. The combination of seasoned pork with a crunchy breadcrumb coating makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 14 (4-inch) skewers
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wire rack
- Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottom saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless pork, cut into 1 1/2-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
Step-by-step Instructions
- Thread 2 to 3 pork cubes onto the skewers. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and seasoned salt on all sides. Set skewers aside.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In a separate shallow bowl, pour in the seasoned bread crumbs. Set a wire rack in the baking dish. Pour water into the dish, making sure it doesn’t touch the wire rack.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or large, heavy-bottom saucepan to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Dip the skewers into the egg mixture, then in the bread crumbs. Repeat the step so each skewer gets coated twice.
- Gently lay the skewers into the deep-fryer and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Place cooked skewers on the wire rack. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake the dish for 20 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink in the center. Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes to crisp up the crumb coating. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the pork pieces are evenly cut for uniform cooking.
- Double-coating in breadcrumbs ensures a crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer to maintain oil temperature.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Try adding grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy twist.
- Serve with a side of dipping sauce like honey mustard or barbecue.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values will vary based on serving size and ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use veal or beef, but the cooking time may vary.
- Is city chicken gluten-free? Not in its traditional form, but you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
- Can I prepare city chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the skewers and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry and bake.
Conclusion
City chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of history to your table. Its unique flavor and texture make it a must-try for any food enthusiast. Give it a try and share your experiences with us! We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this classic recipe.
