Chitin can be converted into a variety of high value-added products and chemicals. The latest research progress in the conversion of chitin and its degradation product of N-acetylglucosamine to nitrogen-containing chemicals such as 3-acetamido-5-acetylfuran and other N-containing compounds is reviewed. The further conversion of 3-acetamido-5-acetylfuran as a platform compound to other compounds is also summarizes. The research directions in these fields are prospected so as to promote the development of chitin conversion into nitrogen-containing chemicals.