Have you ever seen those mysterious jet-black chickens that look like they’ve been dipped in ink? That’s black chicken – also known as Silkie chicken or Ayam Cemani – and it’s becoming increasingly popular in American kitchens. I’ve spent weeks researching where to find this unique meat, and I’m excited to share my findings with you!
What Exactly is Black Chicken?
Before we dive into where to buy it, let’s talk about what makes black chicken so special. Black chicken isn’t just dark on the outside – it has black skin bones and even organs! This is due to a genetic condition called fibromelanosis, which causes excessive pigmentation.
The two main types you’ll encounter are
- Silkie Chicken – Originally from Asia, with fluffy feathers and black skin and bones
- Ayam Cemani – From Indonesia, completely black throughout (even more so than Silkies)
Where Can You Buy Black Chicken Meat?
Finding black chicken meat can be tricky since it’s not typically stocked in regular supermarkets. Here are your best options
1. Asian Grocery Stores
Asian markets are probably your best bet for finding Silkie black chicken. These specialty stores often carry various cuts of black chicken meat, particularly in areas with large Asian communities.
2. Online Specialty Meat Retailers
Several online retailers specialize in exotic meats and ship nationwide:
Weee! Asian Market (sayweee.com)
This online Asian grocery store offers multiple varieties of black chicken:
- Wingtat Silkie Black Chicken (Frozen, 1-1.5 lb) – $12.99-$15.99
- Young Silky Chicken, Female, HOFO (Premium Frozen, 1.5-1.8 lb) – $15.99-$17.79
- Farm Fed Buddhist Style Silkie Chicken (Frozen, 1.8-2.2 lb) – $15.99-$16.99
- Palmetto Farm Silkie Chicken (Frozen, 1-1.5 lb) – $12.99
- Palmetto Farm Silkie Chicken Large (Frozen, 2.3-2.5 lb) – $14.99
Exotic Meat Market
Specializes in unique meats including Ayam Cemani chicken:
- Ayam Cemani Chicken – 1 Dressed Bird – $299.99
- Ayam Cemani Chicken Exotic Eggs for food – 6 Eggs – $99.99
3. Specialty Butcher Shops
Local specialty butchers sometimes carry black chicken or can order it for you. This is a great option if you prefer to see your meat before purchasing.
4. Farmers Markets and Local Farms
Some local farmers raise Silkie chickens and sell them at farmers markets. This is a wonderful way to get fresh black chicken while supporting local agriculture.
5. Direct from Poultry Farms
Certain poultry farms specialize in raising Silkies or Ayam Cemani chickens. You can sometimes purchase directly from these farms, especially if you’re looking for whole birds.
Price Range for Black Chicken
Black chicken is generally more expensive than regular chicken due to its rarity. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Type/Source | Price Range | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Silkie Chicken (Asian market) | $12-$18 | 1-2 lbs |
| Silkie Chicken (Online) | $12.99-$17.79 | 1-2.5 lbs |
| Ayam Cemani (Exotic Meat Market) | $299.99 | 1 dressed bird |
| Ayam Cemani Eggs | $99.99 | 6 eggs |
What Does Black Chicken Taste Like?
If your wondering about the flavor, black chicken has a distinct taste compared to regular chicken. Many describe it as:
- More intense and flavorful
- Slightly gamey or earthy
- Rich with a subtle sweetness
- Deeper, more complex flavor profile
Popular Dishes Made with Black Chicken
Black chicken is super versatile and can be used in many recipes. Some popular dishes include:
- Black Chicken Soup with Goji Berries – A comforting soup with medicinal properties
- Black Chicken Stir Fry – Simple and flavorful with vegetables and aromatics
- Instant Pot Black Chicken Stew – A hearty stew with Asian spices
- Black Chicken Rice Cooker Delight – A one-pot meal with fragrant rice
- Black Chicken with Bok Choy stir fry – A healthy, quick dinner option
Health Benefits of Black Chicken
Many people seek out black chicken for its supposed health benefits. According to traditional Chinese medicine and some customer reviews, black chicken offers:
- Higher protein content than regular chicken
- Lower fat content
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Considered good for immune support
- Used in traditional medicine for centuries
Cooking Tips for Black Chicken
When I first cooked black chicken, I noticed a few differences from regular chicken:
- Slower Cooking – Black chicken can take longer to cook, typically 1-2 hours depending on the method
- Great for Slow Cooking – Works wonderfully in soups, stews, and braised dishes
- Coloration – The black color will affect the appearance of your dish
- Bones – The bones are darker and can make a rich, flavorful broth
Storage Tips
To keep your black chicken fresh:
- Refrigerate and use within a few days of purchase
- Freeze for longer storage (most come frozen anyway)
- Use proper food storage techniques to maintain quality
- Look for bright, translucent appearance and sweet, clean aroma when fresh
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute black chicken for regular chicken?
Yes! You can use black chicken in place of regular chicken in most recipes, but remember it has a more intense flavor and darker color that will affect your dish.
Is black chicken meat healthier than regular chicken?
Many believe it is! Black chicken is said to have higher protein, lower cholesterol, and anti-inflammatory properties compared to regular chicken.
Can I raise my own black chickens for meat?
Absolutely! If you have the facilities and knowledge, raising Silkies can provide a sustainable source of black chicken meat. However, Ayam Cemani chickens are quite expensive to purchase as breeding stock.
How can I tell if black chicken meat is fresh?
Fresh black chicken should have a clean aroma and bright appearance without any sliminess or off smells. When in doubt, throw it out!
My Personal Experience with Black Chicken
I bought my first black chicken from an Asian market in San Francisco last year. I was intimidated at first – the completely black appearance was a bit shocking! But I made a simple soup with ginger and goji berries, and it was incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
The meat was darker and had a more complex taste than regular chicken, almost like a cross between chicken and duck. The broth was rich and deeply colored. While it was more expensive than regular chicken, the unique flavor made it worth the splurge for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Black chicken may require a bit of hunting to find, but the unique culinary experience makes it worth the effort. Whether you’re interested in its distinct flavor profile, potential health benefits, or just want to try something new, black chicken is a fascinating ingredient to experiment with.
Have you tried black chicken before? Where did you purchase it? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Remember, the best places to buy black chicken meat are Asian grocery stores, online specialty retailers like Weee! or Exotic Meat Market, specialty butchers, farmers markets, and direct from poultry farms. Happy cooking!
Where can I buy black chicken?
You can buy it at Weee! Asian Market, www.sayweee.com.
How long does it take to cook black chicken?
It can take a bit longer to cook than regular chicken because of its firmer texture, typically around 1-2 hours depending on the cooking method.