Whole Chicken - Luck and Wholeness

Whole Chicken - Luck and Wholeness

Chicken is a homophone for ji (吉, meaning 'good luck' and 'prosperity'). That is one thing that makes it such a welcome dish at reunion dinners. Chicken is usually served whole — head and feet included — to symbolize 'unity' and 'wholeness', while also signifying 'a good beginning and end' to the year.