Origin: From Northern Tradition to Night Market Icon

Charred grilled chicken rack has its roots in Northern China’s street food heritage, emerging decades ago as a clever way to transform affordable chicken racks—byproducts of poultry processing—into a flavorful delicacy. Popularized in regions like Liaoning and Shandong, where charcoal grilling was a staple cooking method, the dish later spread across the country, finding a beloved spot in Changzhou’s night markets (especially Xinxiaoqiao Night Market). Its accessibility, nostalgic appeal, and irresistible smoky aroma quickly made it a hit among locals, students, and tourists, evolving from a regional specialty to a must-try staple of Changzhou’s street food scene.

Making Process: Meticulous Craft for Crispy-Tender Perfection

The preparation of charred grilled chicken rack involves several key steps to achieve its signature texture and flavor: cleaned and trimmed chicken racks are first marinated for 2–4 hours (or overnight) in a blend of soy sauce, five-spice powder, chili flakes, honey, garlic, and ginger, allowing the spices to deeply penetrate the meat. After marination, the racks are air-dried to remove surface moisture—critical for crisping the skin—before being grilled over red-hot charcoal for 10–15 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking. The high heat of the charcoal crisps the skin to a golden, crackling finish while locking in the meat’s juiciness, and the final touch of sesame seeds, chili powder, or cumin adds an extra layer of aroma and taste before serving piping hot.

Flavor Profile: A Harmonious Blend of Smoky Savory, and Sweet

Charred grilled chicken rack’s charm lies in its perfectly balanced texture and multi-layered taste: the skin is shatteringly crispy, slightly charred, and crackles with each bite, while the meat beneath remains tender, juicy, and easy to pull off the bones, with melted fat adding a rich, savory depth. The flavor combines umami from soy sauce and five-spice powder, a subtle caramelized sweetness from honey, and a gentle kick from chili flakes (adjustable to preference), all elevated by the irreplaceable smoky aroma of charcoal grilling. It’s a casual, hands-on snack—ideal for enjoying while wandering the night market—where the bold, comforting flavors and satisfying crunch capture the essence of street food joy.