Silkie chickens are an Asian breed noted for their plumage of silky feathers, blue earlobes, five toes, and black skin. They're often raised for show due to their attractive looks, but Asians consider them a culinary delicacy.

The skin of Silkies is black, but the flesh underneath is white. You can often find frozen whole Silkie chickens in Asian groceries. The meat is distinctively gamy and richer in taste than other chickens. It's good in hot pot, soups, stir-fries, and confits.

(Images: Tony Cenicola/The New York Times and Wikipedia)