City Chicken

Once the skewers are golden and crispy, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Braise for Tenderness

After frying, place the City Chicken skewers into a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth over the skewers, covering the bottom of the dish. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes. This step allows the meat to cook through and become incredibly tender, while the broth keeps it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

After braising, remove the City Chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. For an added touch, sprinkle the skewers with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love City Chicken

1. A Nostalgic Comfort Food: With its crispy, golden crust and tender interior, City Chicken is the perfect comfort food that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. It’s a great dish to serve for family dinners or special occasions.
2. Affordable and Flavorful: By using pork or veal instead of more expensive cuts of chicken, City Chicken offers a cost-effective yet flavorful alternative. The breading and the braising process make the meat juicy and full of flavor without being overly complicated.
3. Versatile: While traditional City Chicken uses pork or veal, you can easily swap out the meat for chicken or even beef if you prefer. The dish can also be seasoned to your liking—add herbs, spices, or even a little hot sauce to make it your own.
4. Impressive Presentation: The skewered meat mimicking the look of chicken drumsticks makes for a visually appealing dish. City Chicken is a great way to serve individual portions that look impressive without requiring a lot of prep time.
5. Perfect for Weeknights or Special Occasions: Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests at a gathering, City Chicken is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Tips for Success

• Use Bone-In Meat for Extra Flavor: If you want an even richer flavor, consider using bone-in pork chops or veal, as the bones will add extra depth to the dish.
• Make Ahead: City Chicken can be prepared ahead of time. Simply fry the skewers and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to braise and bake them. This is perfect for meal prep or for making the dish in advance for a dinner party.
• Customize the Breading: Feel free to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs or seasonings to suit your taste. Panko breadcrumbs can add extra crunch, and Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs will give the dish more herbaceous flavor.
• Add Toppings: For an added touch, serve the City Chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple salad. A drizzle of gravy or a squeeze of fresh lemon can elevate the dish even more.

Conclusion

City Chicken is a charming and comforting dish with a rich history, perfect for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals. Despite its name, this dish doesn’t use chicken, but rather uses affordable cuts of pork or veal, making it a delicious and cost-effective alternative. With its crispy exterior, tender meat, and flavorful broth, City Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve it as a weeknight dinner or as part of a festive meal, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table.