Everyone knows that the United States has turkey, France has Bresse chicken, and the United Kingdom has Orpington chicken.
I’m not sure how they taste, but I have personally tried Shenzhen’s local specialty—Yao Chicken.
In China, chicken is more than just an ingredient; it carries a deep emotional significance. In rural areas, almost every household raises chickens, and whenever guests visit, a chicken dish is often prepared as a gesture of hospitality.
This is not only a way of welcoming guests but also a reflection of the simple and heartfelt traditions of the countryside.
When it comes to chicken dishes, China offers an endless variety.
Some of the most famous ones include Baiqie Chicken from Guangdong, Kung Pao Chicken from Sichuan, and Beggar’s Chicken from Henan. Each has its own unique flavor and preparation method.
However, if you are in Shenzhen and want to experience an authentic chicken dish, I highly recommend trying the city’s local specialty—Shenzhen Yao Chicken.
This picture might be a bit confusing for foreign friends. But if I told you this is a restaurant, would you believe it?
In fact, these types of restaurants are where most ordinary Chinese people dine. Don’t be fooled by their small size—the food is absolutely delicious!
The meaning in the picture is
Don’t judge the food by its appearance—it tastes absolutely amazing!
Let’s begin by introducing the history of this dish.
The History of Shenzhen Yao Chicken
Shenzhen Yao Chicken is a traditional delicacy that originated in the Hakka region of Guangdong and later became a signature dish in Shenzhen. It is known for its unique preparation method, which involves marinating the chicken with herbs, wrapping it in clay, and slow-roasting it to achieve a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.
The cooking technique of Yao Chicken is believed to have been inspired by Beggar’s Chicken, an ancient Chinese dish in which a whole chicken is coated in mud and roasted over charcoal. Over time, this method evolved, incorporating additional spices such as Sichuan pepper, star anise, and lemongrass to enhance its flavor.
Made from high-quality free-range chickens, Yao Chicken is marinated with a special blend of seasonings and cooked in a traditional kiln to preserve its natural taste. Today, it has become a must-try dish in Shenzhen, beloved by both locals and tourists. Whether in city restaurants or countryside eateries, this flavorful delicacy is widely available and continues to be a staple of Shenzhen’s vibrant food culture.
How to Enjoy Shenzhen Kiln-Roasted Chicken
Shenzhen Kiln-Roasted Chicken Cooking Method
The first step in making kiln-roasted chicken is selecting high-quality free-range chicken, known for its firm texture and rich flavor.
Next, the chicken is marinated with a secret blend of spices, including Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and lemongrass, to enhance its taste.
It is then wrapped in lotus leaves or parchment paper and coated with a thick layer of clay or mud.
The chicken is then placed in a traditional kiln or charcoal oven and slow-roasted for 1.5 to 2 hours. As the clay shell hardens under high heat, it seals in the juices and aromas of the chicken.
Once fully cooked, the hardened shell is cracked open, revealing golden-brown, crispy skin and incredibly tender, juicy meat infused with aromatic herbs.
Kiln-roasted chicken is typically served whole and can be enjoyed with a special dipping sauce or pickled vegetables for added flavor.
My Experience with Kiln-Roasted Chicken
The first time I had kiln-roasted chicken was at a small, unassuming restaurant. The storefront looked rather simple, with a faded sign hanging above the entrance. However, the old-fashioned clay kiln placed at the door made me realize that this place might be hiding something truly delicious.
That day, after a long and tiring day, I walked into the restaurant feeling hungry and exhausted. The owner skillfully took a whole chicken out of the kiln and cracked open the hardened clay shell with a wooden mallet. Instantly, a wave of steaming aroma, infused with the earthy scent of the clay, filled the air and awakened my senses.
Not long after placing my order, the steaming hot kiln-roasted chicken was served. The skin was golden and crispy, and as the knife sliced through it, rich, flavorful juices slowly seeped out, releasing an irresistible fragrance of spices. My appetite grew even stronger.
I couldn’t wait to take my first bite. As I sank my teeth into the chicken, the crispy skin gave way to incredibly tender and juicy meat. The flavors of the spices had fully penetrated the chicken, creating a perfect balance of subtle Sichuan peppercorn, star anise, and the distinct smokiness from the clay roasting. The layers of flavor and texture were simply extraordinary.
Since that day, kiln-roasted chicken has become one of my favorite local dishes in Shenzhen. Compared to the beautifully decorated high-end restaurants, I find myself drawn to these small eateries. There’s no fancy plating here, just simple, authentic food that captures the essence of everyday life.
If you ever visit Shenzhen, I highly recommend trying kiln-roasted chicken. Its appearance may not be particularly eye-catching, but once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why the locals love it so much.
Shenzhen Yao Chicken Prices
The following price list is based on the local average prices. The general price range falls within this range, and I will update it if there are any changes. Please note that prices may vary slightly between different stores, but if the price exceeds this range significantly, I recommend trying another place.
| Dish | Price(RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Yao Chicken | ¥69.9 | Classic signature dish |
| Half Yao Chicken | ¥39.9 | Suitable for smaller appetites |
| Yao Chicken Set | ¥78.8 | Includes Yao Chicken, cured meat rice, and snacks |
As a Chinese person, I sincerely apologize that some businesses may deliberately overcharge foreigners. Please make sure to follow the prices listed in the table when making a purchase. And remember—these prices are in RMB, not USD!
Recommended Yao Chicken(Roast Chicken) Restaurants in Shenzhen
The following are restaurants selected by our team member, Mr. BetterMe, based on reviews from China’s popular restaurant review platform (Dianping).
Our statistical method involves analyzing the number of reviews on Dianping, checking the ratio of positive, negative, and neutral reviews based on the most recent feedback. Additionally, we refer to the relevant rankings provided by Dianping, and ultimately select the top five restaurants.
These establishments offer reasonable prices and a relatively comfortable dining environment, making them suitable for various dining needs.
Each restaurant has its unique features and advantages, making them worth trying.
| Restaurant Name | Specialties | Address | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yaoji Roast Chicken | Traditional roast chicken, tender meat, crispy skin | Huaqiangbei Road, Futian District; Nanshan District, Nanshou Street (multiple locations) | ¥50 – ¥150 per person (depending on dishes and number of people) |
| Dajiangnan Yaoji Roast Chicken | Roast chicken with unique spices and traditional baking technique, crispy skin, rich flavor | Longguan East Road, Longhua District; Xixiang Street, Baoan District (multiple locations) | ¥60 – ¥180 per person (depending on dishes and number of people) |
| Golden Chicken Yaoji | Traditional roasting method, tender chicken, rich aroma | Shekou Sea World, Nanshan District; Dalang Street, Longhua District (multiple locations) | ¥60 – ¥160 per person (depending on dishes and number of people) |
| Lao Ma Yaoji Roast Chicken | Traditional technique, crispy exterior, rich sauce | Dongmen Town, Luohu District; Meilin Street, Futian District (multiple locations) | ¥50 – ¥140 per person (depending on dishes and number of people) |
| Xiangxiang Yaoji Roast Chicken | Fusion of Hunan cuisine flavor, spicy, for lovers of strong flavors | Fuxin South Road, Futian District; Shekou, Nanshan District (multiple locations) | ¥60 – ¥150 per person (depending on dishes and number of people) |
I believe I have covered everything I wanted to say, and I hope this can be helpful to everyone. Wishing you a great time and lots of fun!
Need assistance?
When trying to enjoy this delicious dish, you may encounter challenges such as finding an authentic restaurant, language barriers, or unclear pricing. If you have any questions or require assistance, please feel free to contact us via email.
I am fluent in English and will personally respond to your message as soon as I receive it. I offer free support to ensure you can effortlessly enjoy an authentic experience.
syusangma@gmail.com
Reviewer: Fuwei
Researcher: Mr. BetterMe
Thank you, this was very helpful to me.