Sometimes the simplest dishes become the most comforting. City Chicken, a dish that has been bringing joy to dinner tables for generations, is exactly that—simple, crispy, and irresistibly savory.
Despite its name, this dish is made from boneless pork cubes, not chicken, breaded and fried to perfection. The seasoned bread crumbs add a crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meat inside, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
This classic comfort food is perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal with family. Serve it alongside a refreshing Caprese Salad Skewers or Focaccia Bread to elevate the experience and bring a bit of Italian charm to your plate.
The seasoned salt and black pepper help enhance the pork’s natural flavors, and the golden crispiness will have everyone coming back for more. What makes this dish even better is that it’s quick and simple to make, with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
City Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic favorite that has stood the test of time.
So, let’s dig in and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Stand Out?
- Easy and quick: Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying without a lot of effort.
- Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside: The breading creates the perfect contrast with the tender pork.
- Customizable: I’ve added different seasonings over time, and it always turns out delicious.
- Kid-approved: My kids love it, and I love that it’s a meal the whole family enjoys.
City Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Skewers
- Shallow bowl for egg wash
- Shallow dish for bread crumbs
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon
- Plate lined with paper towels (for draining)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless pork cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 14 4 inch skewers
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- seasoned salt such as LAWRY’S® to taste
- 4 eggs
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prep the pork: Cut the boneless pork into 1 ½-inch cubes.
- Season: Season the pork cubes with salt, black pepper, and seasoned salt.
- Prepare the breading: In one bowl, beat eggs with milk. In another, place the Italian bread crumbs.
- Bread the pork: Dip each pork cube into the egg wash, then coat with bread crumbs.
- Skewer the pork: Thread the breaded pork onto skewers, about 2–3 cubes per skewer.
- Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the skewers: Fry the skewers in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 3–4 minutes).
- Drain and serve: Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 369kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 619mg |
Best Variations for City Chicken Recipe
- Herb-Infused Bread Crumbs: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the bread crumbs for an aromatic punch and a more rustic flavor profile.
- Spicy Cajun Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning or chili powder into the bread crumbs for a subtle heat and extra flavor depth that complements the pork.
- Parmesan-Crusted: Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the bread crumbs for an extra layer of richness and a golden, cheesy crust that adds a salty depth to each bite.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the egg wash for a slightly sweet contrast to the savory breading, creating a sweet-salty flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the regular bread crumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds to create a delicious gluten-free version of this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
- Panko for Extra Crunch: Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs for a lighter, crispier crust that holds up beautifully after frying.
- Lemon Zest: Add a pinch of lemon zest to the breading for a zesty, refreshing note that balances the richness of the fried pork.
- Asian-Inspired: After frying, drizzle the skewers with a little soy sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for a savory, umami-filled variation.
- Coconut-Crusted: For a tropical twist, mix in shredded coconut with the bread crumbs for an extra layer of texture and a subtly sweet, nutty flavor.
- Air-Fried Version: Skip the deep-frying and try an air fryer for a healthier yet still crispy version. It cuts down on the oil while still delivering the crispy, crunchy exterior.
These variations will take your City Chicken to the next level, allowing you to tailor the dish to your flavor preferences or dietary needs.
