Chickens might not seem like luxury items, but in the world of rare poultry, the most expensive chicken breeds can fetch thousands of dollars. These birds stand out for their striking appearance, rarity, or culinary reputation. Dubbed the “Lamborghini of poultry,” the Ayam Cemani is know for its all-black appearance. This Indonesian breed owes its black feathers, skin, bones, and even internal organs to a rare condition called fibromelanosis, a genetic mutation that causes extreme pigmentation. Ayam Cemani chickens can sell for around $6,000 per bird, making them the most expensive chicken breed in the world. Behind the Ayam Cemani, in second place, is the Dong Tao breed — also known as the dragon chicken — from Vietnam. It’s famous for its thick, scaly legs, and its meat is prized for its quality and texture. Dong Tao chickens sell for an average of $2,000 per chicken. Finally, in third place is the Bresse chicken, which is native to France. They are considered the gold standard for white meat. Known for their marbled fat and exceptional flavor, this breed is legally protected and only considered true Bresse if raised in a specific region of France. Cheap compared to the Ayam Cemani and the dragon chicken, Bresse chickens run an average of $500 per chicken.
The Most Expensive Chickens in the World Cost About $6,000 Per Bird
Chickens might not seem like luxury items, but in the world of rare poultry, the most expensive chicken breeds can fetch thousands of dollars. These birds stand out for their striking appearance, rarity, or culinary reputation. Dubbed the “Lamborghini of poultry,” the Ayam Cemani is know for its all-black appearance. This Indonesian breed owes its black feathers, skin, bones, and even internal organs to a rare condition called fibromelanosis, a genetic mutation that causes extreme pigmentation. Ayam Cemani chickens can sell for around $6,000 per bird, making them the most expensive chicken breed in the world. Behind the Ayam Cemani, in second place, is the Dong Tao breed — also known as the dragon chicken — from Vietnam. It’s famous for its thick, scaly legs, and its meat is prized for its quality and texture. Dong Tao chickens sell for an average of $2,000 per chicken. Finally, in third place is the Bresse chicken, which is native to France. They are considered the gold standard for white meat. Known for their marbled fat and exceptional flavor, this breed is legally protected and only considered true Bresse if raised in a specific region of France. Cheap compared to the Ayam Cemani and the dragon chicken, Bresse chickens run an average of $500 per chicken.