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Tien Yen hill chicken

Tien Yen hill chicken: A must-try specialty in Quang Ninh

31/07/2025 202 views

Tien Yen hill chicken is a famous specialty of Quang Ninh that attracts food lovers with its unique taste. This naturally raised chicken boasts tender, flavorful, and aromatic meat. It is a must-try dish when exploring the culinary delights of northeastern Vietnam.

1. Origin of Tien Yen hill chicken

Tien Yen chicken, also known as hill chicken or bearded chicken, is an indigenous breed of Vietnam originating from the former Tien Yen district of Quang Ninh province, which now includes Tien Yen commune, Dien Xa commune, Dong Ngu commune, and Hai Lang commune. It has been recognized by the Vietnamese government as an approved livestock breed for production and business, and was voted one of Vietnam’s top delicacies by the Vietnam Records Book Center.

Tien Yen hill chicken is proudly among the most famous food in Quang Ninh. Since the 1970s, it has been famous in the eastern part of Quang Ninh. However, to find authentic Tien Yen chickens, people need to go to remote villages such as Phong Du, Ha Lau, and Yen Than. Here, chickens are raised naturally with strong resistance, are easy to care for, and feed mainly on agricultural by-products like corn, sweet potatoes, cassava, vegetables, and grass.

Hill chicken in Tien Yen is raised naturally and free range

Hill chicken in Tien Yen is raised naturally and free-range (Source: Collected)

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2. Distinctive qualities of hill chicken in Tien Yen

Tien Yen hill chickens get their name because they have been raised freely for generations. Every day, they roam the hills, foraging for food like worms, crickets, ants, and termites. In the evenings, they return to the garden and sleep on tree branches. Thanks to their constant walking, flying, and natural diet, their meat is sweet, fragrant, firm yet crunchy, not tough, and rich without being greasy.

These chickens are known for their short legs and plump, rounded bodies in both hens and roosters. They have compact frames with short necks and small yellow legs. By six months of age, hens weigh between 1.5 and 2 kilograms, while roosters reach 2.2 to 3 kilograms.

A unique feature of this breed is the “beard” at the base of their beaks, where tufts of feathers stick out on both sides like whiskers. All roosters have either these beards or thick jaw feathers, while the hens display well-developed, bright red combs and strong, short beaks.

hill chicken in tien yen

Tien Yen hill chicken – a delicious specialty that captivates every diner’s taste buds (Source: Collected)

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3. Special flavors of Tien Yen hill chicken dishes

Tien Yen hill chicken is loved for its naturally sweet, firm, and aromatic meat, giving every dish a rich and authentic flavor. Visitors can savor this local specialty in various mouthwatering ways:

  • Boiled: Whole chicken is simmered with ginger and green onion until the skin turns golden yellow and fragrant. The meat remains firm yet tender, naturally sweet, and free of any gamey smell.
  • Charcoal-grilled: Marinated with simple spices and grilled over charcoal, this dish delivers a smoky aroma, crispy golden skin, and juicy, flavorful meat.
  • Steamed with lime leaves: Steamed with aromatic lime leaves, the chicken absorbs a refreshing citrusy scent while staying soft and juicy.
  • Salt-roasted: Bite-sized pieces are roasted with salt, chili, lemongrass, and lime leaves, creating a salty, spicy, and aromatic treat—perfect for cooler days.
  • Hotpot: Ideal for gatherings, this hearty Tien Yen hill chicken hotpot features firm chicken meat and a naturally sweet broth from chicken bones, paired with fresh vegetables for a warm and satisfying meal.
Tien Yen hill chicken has sweet firm and aromatic meat

Tien Yen hill chicken has sweet, firm, and aromatic meat (Source: Collected)

4. What is served with Tien Yen hill chicken?

When enjoying hill chicken in Tien Yen, one must try it with “banh gat gu” – a type of fresh rice roll made from rice flour, rolled into thumb-sized pieces. These rolls are clear, soft, and not sticky. Though served with chicken, “bánh gật gù” also comes with its dipping sauce made from fried chicken fat mixed with premium fish sauce, shallots, garlic, and chili.

Another highlight that elevates Tien Yen hill chicken is its signature secret dipping sauce. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it combines the saltiness of salt, the heat of pepper and green chili, and the fresh aroma of lime leaves. This magic seasoning brings out the best flavors of the chicken and turns a simple dish into an unforgettable experience.

5. Where to enjoy Tien Yen hill chicken?

If you have the chance to visit Tien Yen, don’t miss out on tasting this unique culinary specialty. You can find Tien Yen hill chicken at local markets, roadside eateries along National Highway 18A, or even on the menus of high-end restaurants in Ha Long. Prices range from 120,000 to 200,000 VND per kilogram, making it an affordable and worthwhile food experience.

In recent years, Tien Yen area has actively promoted this chicken, bringing it to companies, restaurants, and supermarkets such as TKV and Go! Ha Long. It is now also available in nearby cities like Hanoi and Hai Phong, allowing more diners to enjoy its delicious flavors.

Visitors can buy Tien Yen chicken at local markets or eateries

Visitors can buy Tien Yen chicken at local markets or eateries (Source: Collected)

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Tien Yen hill chicken is more than just a local dish; it is a proud culinary symbol of Quang Ninh. With its naturally sweet, firm, and aromatic meat, Tien Yen hill chicken offers an unforgettable taste experience. Whether enjoyed boiled, grilled, or steamed, Tien Yen hill chicken is a must-try for anyone visiting Northern Vietnam.

While enjoying this culinary delight, enhance your Quang Ninh trip with a stay at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, where you can unwind in luxurious comfort with breathtaking views of the bay. 

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Beyond Ha Long, don’t miss exploring other amazing destinations in Vietnam such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, each offering its own unique charm and local flavors.

For even more excitement in these captivating locations, visit VinWonders, Vietnam’s top entertainment complex offering thrilling rides, water parks, and cultural shows. After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a peaceful retreat at Vinpearl’s hotels and resorts, where exceptional service and premium facilities await to make your journey truly unforgettable.

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