Traditional City Chicken

Intro:
If you’re looking for a classic comfort food dish that will transport you back in time, look no further than Traditional City Chicken. Despite its name, this recipe doesn’t actually contain chicken; it’s a delicious concoction of tender meat chunks on skewers that resemble drumsticks. Originating as a cost-effective way to mimic more expensive meats during the Great Depression, this recipe has stood the test of time and remains a beloved dish in many households. Get ready to savor the flavors of nostalgia with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Traditional City Chicken

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs of cubed pork or veal
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
– Wooden skewers

Instructions:
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper to create a dredging station for the meat. Dip each cube of pork or veal into the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly.

3. Once all the meat has been coated with flour, dip each piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating.

4. Next, roll the egg-coated meat in breadcrumbs, covering it entirely for a crispy outer layer once cooked.

5. Thread the breaded meat cubes onto wooden skewers, alternating the pieces to create a “drumstick” appearance. Leave a little space between each cube to ensure even cooking.

6. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the skewers on all sides, working in batches if necessary, to seal in the flavors and create a golden crust.

7. Transfer the browned skewers to the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and tender.

8. While the skewers are baking, pour the chicken broth into the skillet used to brown the meat. Bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious flavors into the sauce.

9. Allow the broth to reduce slightly, creating a flavorful sauce to drizzle over the cooked skewers.

10. Once the meat skewers are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the warm chicken broth sauce over the top for an added burst of flavor.

Enjoy your Traditional City Chicken hot, with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. This timeless recipe is sure to become a new family favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings or a weeknight treat. Try it out and savor the simple joys of homemade comfort food!