Dong Tao Chicken – A Rare Expensive Delicacy in Vietnam

Dong Tao chickens which in the past were used as a delicacy offering to kings, have risen to fame during the recent Lunar New Year (Tet) as people sought them to use for gifts and eating. This chicken is well-known for its awkward-looking, bulky legs.
Dong Tao chickens, better known as “Dragon Chickens” are native to Dong Tao Commune in Khoai Chau District. This special species of Vietnamese chicken may look horribly deformed but they are among the world’s most expensive poultry as their massive thighs are a delicacy in Vietnam.

It is very difficult to breed this rare species because they are extremely sensitive to changes of temperature and weather and tend to lay fewer eggs than common chickens. Their huge legs and feet also make the hatching process more difficult, so more attention is needed from farmers to produce chicks.

A newly-hatched chick takes eight months to one year to become a marketable bird of three to five kilograms. A male adult Dong Tao chicken can weigh up to 6kg. The hens have feathers of white and plum with a black tail while the cocks have two colours; “ma linh” (glossy black) and “ma lua” (yellow). Their bulbous legs are covered with reddish scales.

With the advantages of a fine appearance, big and bizarre-looking feet and the firm, crisp and sweet meat, the chickens are usually served in restaurants which cater to the wealthy. Each kilo of Dong Tao chicken meat is priced at 350,000-400,000 VND depending on the type. Roosters can be worth up to 5-6 million dong each. During the recent Lunar New Year, suppliers ran out of stock, as a great deal of people wanted to buy these purebred chickens that were both strange and tasty.

At present, the locals in Dong Tao Commune prioritise to protect and develop the genetic resource of this unique Vietnamese breed which brings high economic value.