City Chicken is a beloved dish in Cleveland, Ohio, that has stood the test of time as a classic comfort food. Despite its name, City Chicken is not actually made with chicken. Instead, cubes of pork or veal (sometimes both) are stacked onto wooden skewers and fashioned to resemble a drumstick chicken leg. This clever substitution was born out of necessity during the Depression era when chicken was more expensive than pork and veal.
The preparation of City Chicken is simple yet delicious. The skewered meat is dry-seasoned, dredged in beaten egg, then coated in flour or breadcrumbs (sometimes both), and browned in a frying pan or skillet with a combination of butter and olive oil. Once the meat is nicely browned, the skewers are typically transferred to the oven to bake until tender. Some variations include baking the skewers in a baking dish with gravy and vegetables, creating a one-pan meal that is both convenient and satisfying.
City Chicken holds a special place in the hearts of many Clevelanders, as well as in other cities in the Great Lakes region with a strong Eastern European immigrant population. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations, cherished for its affordability and deliciousness. In fact, City Chicken is considered a „Classic CLE“ dish, so much so that even celebrity chef and Cleveland champion Michael Symon featured an upscale version of it on his restaurant menus at one point.
Despite its humble origins, City Chicken has a rich history and a loyal following. It is often enjoyed alongside other comfort food classics like chipped beef, meatloaf, and goulash. For many, including myself, City Chicken brings back fond memories of childhood dinners and family gatherings. Its simple preparation and hearty flavors make it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Whether you grew up eating City Chicken or are just discovering it now, there’s no denying the appeal of this timeless dish. So next time you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or simply looking for a comforting meal, give City Chicken a try. You won’t be disappointed by its sassy, intriguing, and sophisticated flavors that truly do „taste like chicken.“