City Chicken isn't from a city, surprisingly! This dish, a comforting classic, gets its name from its resemblance to city streets—long, narrow pieces of chicken, often bone-in, arranged side-by-side in a baking dish. While the exact origins are a bit murky, it's believed to have gained popularity in the mid-20th century, a time when economical and flavorful dishes were highly valued. Today, City Chicken remains a beloved recipe, passed down through families and enjoyed for its juicy chicken and flavorful, crispy skin. This guide will explore this culinary gem, providing you with a variety of recipes and answering frequently asked questions.
What is City Chicken?
City Chicken is essentially a baked chicken dish featuring chicken pieces, typically bone-in, dredged in a flavorful coating, and baked until tender and golden brown. The "streets" are created by arranging the long, narrow pieces of chicken in a baking pan, often with potatoes or other vegetables nestled alongside. The coating, typically a mixture of flour, seasonings, and sometimes breadcrumbs, creates a wonderfully crispy exterior, contrasting beautifully with the juicy, tender chicken inside.
Classic City Chicken Recipe
This recipe provides a foundation for your City Chicken adventure:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, cut into 3-inch strips (or use a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 lb small red potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Arrange in baking dish: In a large baking dish (9x13 inch or similar), arrange the potatoes and onion wedges. Place the coated chicken pieces on top, arranging them to resemble city streets.
- Bake: Pour the melted butter or oil evenly over the chicken and potatoes. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the City Chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Can you use boneless chicken for City Chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for City Chicken, but the texture will be different. Boneless chicken will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly. It will also lack the crispy skin that's a hallmark of the traditional recipe. For a similar crispy texture, you might consider breading the boneless chicken in panko breadcrumbs.
What are some variations of the City Chicken recipe?
The beauty of City Chicken is its adaptability! Here are some delicious variations:
- Spicy City Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb City Chicken: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the flour mixture.
- City Chicken with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to the baking dish.
- Creamy City Chicken: After baking, stir in a mixture of sour cream or cream of mushroom soup to create a creamy sauce.
How long does it take to cook City Chicken?
The cooking time for City Chicken depends on several factors, including the size and type of chicken pieces used, the oven temperature, and the size of the baking dish. Generally, it takes 45-60 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but it's crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What are the best sides to serve with City Chicken?
City Chicken pairs well with many classic sides, including:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Green beans
- Cornbread
- Mac and cheese
This detailed guide provides a comprehensive look at City Chicken, offering a classic recipe and answering frequently asked questions. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish!
