Youyu Bian Chicken

Youyu Bian Chicken

　　Youyu Bian Chicken is an excellent dual-purpose breed for both meat and eggs. As Youyu County is located at the foot of the Outer Great Wall, locals commonly refer to the Great Wall as the "border wall." Thus, this premium chicken breed that thrives at the foot of the Great Wall is called "Bian Chicken."

　　The success in breeding the Youyu Bian Chicken is closely tied to the county’s natural environment and traditional way of life. Youyu County is the coldest region in the Datong Basin, with the ground frozen for about five months of the year. Through years of acclimatization, the Youyu Bian Chicken has developed traits that allow it to grow and reproduce in cold, windy, and sandy conditions. It is a large-sized bird with long feathers, fine down, a small but densely feathered comb, long-haired earlobes, stiff hair between its outer toes, and can withstand temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius. Its thick, sturdy legs are set wide apart, enabling it to walk and forage even in windy conditions. Its earthy yellow plumage serves as natural camouflage on the Loess Plateau, helping it avoid attacks from birds of prey and wild animals.

　　 Analysis shows that high-quality Youyu Bian Chicken meat contains up to 25% protein—higher than that of pork or lamb—while its fat content is only around 1%. People love to prepare Youyu Bian Chicken by stewing it plainly, simmering it white-style, stir-frying it dry, or braising it red-style, making it a festive delicacy and a nourishing dish.