Cai Chien Island, located in Hai Ha district, Quang Ninh province, is known not only for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, but also for its unique culinary treasure - the bearded chicken. This native breed has become an island icon, renowned for its firm, flavorful meat and signature golden, crispy skin.

In recent years, the island has attracted more visitors drawn by its unspoiled charm and peaceful atmosphere. While fresh seafood like sea snails, green-lipped and yellow-lipped snails are abundant, it’s the “two-legged specialty” - the bearded chicken - that’s catching the most attention. Since 2015, it has been officially recognized as an OCOP product and a culinary highlight of Cai Chien’s tourism experience.

According to local resident and tourism entrepreneur Luong Tien Dat, 30, bearded chickens have been raised on the island for generations. “They have short legs, small bones, and yellow skin. As they grow, a cluster of long feathers appears beneath their beaks like a beard, which gives them their name,” he explained.

The “beard” sometimes grows behind the comb, making them look as if they’re wearing a feathered hat. Notably, hens also sport this beard. Once cooked, their skin glows a deep golden hue, and the texture is delightfully crispy without being greasy.

Although the meat is delicious and well-loved, the breed is difficult to reproduce naturally due to low egg incubation success rates. Most islanders raise the chickens free-range, letting them forage in herbal gardens and supplementing their diet with rice and grain.

Because of this natural farming method, the chickens grow slowly. Hens take six months to a year to reach 1.6 to 2 kg, while capon roosters need at least eight months to a year to reach 2.5 to 3.2 kg. “They must be caponized to avoid dark, chewy meat,” Dat noted.

Locals traditionally prepare bearded chicken by steaming or boiling to preserve its original flavor. The meat remains tender and juicy, while the skin stays crisp. Another standout preparation is salt-steamed bearded chicken, a method that involves wrapping the bird in banana leaves, covering it with salt, and gently steaming it over low heat. The result is a moist, aromatic dish infused with the fragrance of banana leaves and sea salt.

Bearded chicken is currently sold at around 230,000-250,000 VND per kilogram (approximately USD 9-10.50). The best time to visit Cai Chien Island is between April and July, when the weather is calm and the skies are clear. Visitors can take a self-propelled ferry from Ghenh Vo wharf in Quang Dien commune to reach the island.