Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers
Substitutions:
- Pork can be substituted with chicken or veal for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-free bread crumbs can be used for a gluten-free version.
Instructions
1. Preparation of Meat:
- Start by cutting the pork tenderloin into 1-inch cubes.
- This size ensures even cooking and a perfect bite.
2. Skewering:
- Thread the pork cubes onto the soaked skewers, mimicking the look of a chicken leg.
- Leave a little space between each piece to ensure thorough cooking.
3. Seasoning the Meat:
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix the bread crumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Coating:
- Dip each skewer into the beaten eggs, ensuring all sides are covered.
- Then, roll them in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
5. Preheating the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3-5 minutes.
- This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
6. Arranging in the Basket:
- Place the skewered meat in the air fryer basket.
- Make sure they are not touching to allow air to circulate freely.
7. Cooking Time and Temperature:
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the skewers and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- The high temperature ensures a crispy coating while keeping the inside tender.
8. Checking for Doneness:
- The meat should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
9. Serving:
- Once cooked, let the city chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- This allows the juices to redistribute.
10. Serving Ideas:
- Serve your city chicken with sides of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- These accompaniments make for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Selecting the Right Meat: Opt for tenderloin or a similarly tender cut for the best results. This ensures that your city chicken is juicy and delicious.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends. Whether you prefer simple salt and pepper or a more elaborate marinade, the right seasonings can significantly enhance the flavor.
- Importance of Preheating: Preheating the air fryer is key to achieving a crispy texture. It mimics the immediate high heat of traditional frying.
- Arranging for Optimal Air Circulation: Proper placement in the air fryer basket is essential. It ensures that each piece cooks evenly and gets that desirable crispiness.
- Adjusting Cooking Times: Depending on the size of your air fryer and the type of meat used, cooking times may vary. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers per person
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Sugar: Less than 1g
- Sodium: Approximately 300mg
- Fat: Approximately 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: air fryer city chicken recipe