Imperial Concubine Chicken: The Dish That Charmed an Emperor and a Nation

Hey food lovers! Today, I’ve got a super interesting story for you—one that involves a beautiful concubine, a drunken night, and a dish that became a legend. Let’s dive into the tale of Imperial Concubine Chicken!

The Legend of Yang Guifei

So, here’s the backstory. Imagine living in the Tang Dynasty, a time when poetry, art, and culture were flourishing. Emperor Xuanzong was on the throne, and his favorite concubine was the stunning Yang Guifei. She was famous not just for her beauty but also for her charm and wit. The emperor adored her, and she had a special place in his heart.

A Drunken Night and a Royal Request

One night, during a grand feast, Yang Guifei and the emperor were enjoying themselves a bit too much. They were having a great time, and Yang Guifei, in her tipsy state, exclaimed, “I want to fly up to the sky!” The emperor, also a bit tipsy, mistook her words for a food request and ordered the imperial chefs to prepare a dish called “flying up to the sky.”

The Clever Chefs Step In

The chefs were puzzled. They had never heard of such a dish, but they couldn’t disobey the emperor’s command. After some quick thinking, a clever chef from Suzhou came up with an idea. He suggested using the tender wings of young chickens, which were known for their delicacy. The chefs then prepared the dish by braising the chicken wings with mushrooms, dried scallops, bamboo shoots, and green peppers. The result was a dish that was not only delicious but also visually stunning, with a vibrant mix of colors.

A Dish Is Born

When the dish was presented to Yang Guifei, she was delighted. She tasted it and was amazed by its tenderness and rich flavors. Emperor Xuanzong also loved it and asked what it was called. The chefs, realizing the emperor’s mistake, named the dish “Imperial Concubine Chicken” (贵妃鸡) in honor of Yang Guifei. The name stuck, and the dish became a favorite in the imperial court.

From Court to Common Tables

The story doesn’t end there. The chef who created the dish eventually retired and returned to his hometown of Suzhou. He brought the recipe with him, and soon, Imperial Concubine Chicken became a popular dish in the region. Today, it’s considered one of the signature dishes of Suzhou cuisine, known for its tender meat, rich flavors, and beautiful presentation.

Why It’s Special

What makes Imperial Concubine Chicken so special? It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The chicken is braised to perfection, ensuring it’s tender and juicy. The addition of mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and green peppers gives it a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavors. Plus, the dish’s vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Give It a Try!

If you’re ever in Suzhou or at a Chinese restaurant that serves traditional dishes, make sure to try Imperial Concubine Chicken. It’s a dish that not only tastes amazing but also comes with a fascinating story. And who knows? Maybe you’ll feel a bit of that royal charm as you savor each bite.

So, the next time you enjoy a meal, remember that sometimes the best dishes come from the most unexpected moments. Happy eating!