Pioneer Chicken – The Perfect Comfort Dish

Warm up your winter nights with a hearty dose of pioneer chicken! This classic comfort food is sure to satisfy, with its flavorful combination of savory elements and “just right” spices. The dish presents a tantalizing mix of textures – tender chicken, buttery onions, and a delightful crispy coating.

A Traditional Adaptation

Pioneer chicken draws culinary influence from its traditional roots. The recipe first appeared in a cookbook published in 1848, with the dish popularized during the era of the Oregon Trail and California Gold Rush. This delectable version includes a simple yet zesty marinade featuring ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for an extra punch of flavor.

A Joyful Recipe Assembly

This simple yet delicious dish comes together quickly and has a couple of delightful surprises up its sleeve. It starts with dipping the chicken thighs in a seasoned egg wash to create a light cheese-like coating. Then, sauté the chicken with onions in butter and olive oil to seal in the flavor. Afterward, put it all in a casserole dish and bake until golden brown. Once the dish is done baking, sprinkle generously with American cheese for an extra cheesy finish.

Lighten Up with a Vegetable Twist

Put a healthy spin on the dish by adding your favorite roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or green beans. You can even layer them in the baking dish for an extra flavorful kick. Finish it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly.

Bring the Family Together with Pioneer Chicken

Pioneer chicken is one of those comforting dishes sure to bring the family together. Try this modern twist on a classic comfort food recipe, and enjoy the delightful flavors of pioneer chicken.

Pioneer Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken thighs, flattened
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup grated American cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, combine eggs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken thighs in egg mixture and place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a skillet, sauté onions in butter and olive oil until tender.
5. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mix to combine.
6. Pour the onion mixture over the chicken thighs and spread evenly.
7. Bake in oven for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Sprinkle cheese on top, return to oven and bake for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
9. Serve warm with your favorite side dish. Enjoy!