At the table
Have the chicken cut into portions and remove bones as you eat.
Contains bones; ask about cooking oil and seasonings if you have food allergies.
Spice blends vary; some include nutmeg. The representative version has no chili, but check any added sauce. Some makers colour the chicken without frying it first.
GET TO KNOW THE DISH
What goes into it?
Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.
Spice blends vary; some include nutmeg. The representative version has no chili, but check any added sauce. Some makers colour the chicken without frying it first.
Typical ingredients
In some versions
Recipes vary by restaurant.
How does it taste?
Savory and spiced
- Chili heat
- Texture
- Tender, easily separated meat.
- How it’s made
- Coat chicken with honey, fry to color, then braise in seasoned chicken broth.
Spice blends vary; some include nutmeg. The representative version has no chili, but check any added sauce. Some makers colour the chicken without frying it first.
A CONNECTION TO PLACE
Origin & regional roots
Associated with Henan.
Ask if they have it first
请问你们有道口烧鸡吗？
Do you have this item?
A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ
Story & history
Daokou chicken: the flavour of seasoned stock
Daokou in Henan is known for whole chicken shaped like an old Chinese silver ingot. Its golden skin comes from colouring the bird before slowly braising it in a seasoned master stock. The combination of a reused stock and aromatic spices gives the dish its character, while prolonged gentle cooking makes the meat easy to separate from the bones. Spice mixtures and colouring methods vary among makers.