Hainan Chicken Rice: A Culinary Gem from Hainan Island
Hainan Chicken Rice, renowned across Singapore, actually originates from Hainan Island in China and is a must-try dish when visiting the island.
From the point of view the Singapore Tourism Board’s website, Hainan’s Chicken Rice, known locally as “Wenchang Chicken,” features a special breed of chicken that is known for its tender meat and rich flavor. Wenchang Chicken is one of the most popular poultry breeds in China, particularly in Wenchang city on Hainan Island. The dish is believed to date back to the Ming Dynasty, when an official presented these chickens to the emperor, who was so pleased with them that he named them Wenchang Chicken. These chickens are typically raised on a diet of coconut, corn, and peanuts, which imparts a delicious flavor to the meat. The chicken is usually served with a simple seasoning of salt and crushed ginger.
On Hainan Island, Wenchang Chicken is one of the top four local specialties, consistently listed as a “must-try” dish. The rice is prepared with salt, chicken broth, and chicken fat, and is served with soy sauce, sesame oil, sliced cucumbers, and spicy chili sauce. The chicken broth, enriched with additional seasonings, often replaces soup in the meal. This recipe was brought to Singapore by immigrants from Hainan in the 19th century and quickly became a local favorite. Today, Hainan Chicken Rice is one of Singapore’s most celebrated dishes and has also become popular throughout China.
Hainan Island attracts tourists not only for its delicious Chicken Rice but also for its warm sea, ideal for swimming and summer relaxation. Haikou, the island’s capital, is considered the world’s largest duty-free shopping hub. Popular tourist attractions on Hainan Island include the ancient Kylin Old Street, the world’s tallest three-faced Guanyin statue, the Yichang Night Market in Sanya, and the scenic Tianmu Garden.
