Facts About Wenchang chicken
Wenchang chicken is a special breed and a beloved dish native to Wenchang city in Hainan, China. This small, meaty, free-range chicken is known for its unique diet of coconut and peanut bran. During the final two months before they go to market, these chickens are raised in elevated coops.
Renowned throughout Hainan province, the dish is famously prepared using a method known as "white cutting." This technique involves dipping the chicken in nearly boiling water, which helps maintain the meat's softness and tenderness. When served, the chicken pieces are typically paired with a flavorful mixture of chopped ginger and salt. Wenchang chicken is easily identifiable by its yellow, slightly oily skin and its meat, which is drier and more textured compared to chickens raised in confinement.
Wenchang chicken's popularity extends beyond mainland China; it is also well-loved in places like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other Southeast Asian countries. In fact, this dish is considered the precursor to Hainanese chicken rice, a much-celebrated dish in countries such as Singapore and Malaysia.