Char Siu Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that irresistible sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavor from your favorite Chinese barbecue joint, you’re in for a treat with Char Siu Chicken. This dish features tender, juicy chicken thighs soaked in a vibrant marinade packed with hoisin, soy, honey, and the warm depth of Chinese five-spice powder. The magic happens as the marinade caramelizes in the oven, creating those signature charred edges that make every bite absolutely addictive. Trust me, once you try making Char Siu Chicken at home, it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each bringing a unique layer of flavor, color, or texture to the Char Siu Chicken. Combining sweet, salty, tangy, and aromatic elements, they perfectly harmonize to create that mouthwatering classic Chinese barbecue taste you’re after.

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The ideal cut for juicy, tender results that soak up the marinade beautifully.
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet complexity and that unmistakable char siu flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings saltiness and depth to balance the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Imparts natural sweetness and helps create that sticky, glossy finish.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds umami richness and a silky texture to the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens the mix with a mild tang that cuts through the richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory notes and pairs beautifully with the aromatic spices.
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder: Brings warm, fragrant hints of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves.
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil: Lends a toasty, nutty aroma that rounds out the marinade perfectly.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil in a bowl. This combination forms the heart of your Char Siu Chicken, marrying sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors that will soak into the chicken and transform it as it cooks.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag and pour in half of the marinade. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or if you have time, let it sit overnight for maximum flavor absorption. This slow marinating process allows the chicken to soak up those complex flavors so each bite bursts with that classic Char Siu Chicken taste.

Step 3: Prepare to Bake

Before cooking, take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and arrange the marinated chicken thighs on it, skin side up.

Step 4: Bake and Simmer Sauce

Bake the chicken in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until fully cooked. Meanwhile, don’t forget the remaining marinade. Pour it into a small saucepan, bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it thicken for about 10 minutes. This concentrated sauce will be the perfect glaze for your chicken.

Step 5: Glaze and Broil for Perfection

Once your chicken is cooked through, brush it generously with the thickened marinade. Pop it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely as it caramelizes and develops those signature slightly charred, sticky edges. This step is what gives Char Siu Chicken its authentic, irresistible finish.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let your Char Siu Chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices before slicing it up. This final pause makes your chicken even more tender and flavorful with each bite.

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds add a lovely fresh crunch and visually enhance your dish. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime can brighten the rich flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Char Siu Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy fried rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a refreshing contrast, serve with lightly sautéed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad tossed in a tangy dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to switch things up? Try slicing the Char Siu Chicken thinly and serving it over a bed of cold noodles with a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick. Or wrap the chicken in steamed bao buns alongside pickled veggies for a fun handheld meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Char Siu Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier leftovers.

Freezing

If you want to keep Char Siu Chicken longer, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. For best results, flash freeze on a tray first to prevent sticking, then transfer to bags.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave until just warmed through to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and keep the glaze sticky and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they are leaner and can dry out more easily. Marinate well and watch cooking time closely to keep the meat tender.

Is there a substitute for hoisin sauce?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can mix soy sauce with a bit of honey or brown sugar and a dash of five-spice powder as a quick alternative, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Can I grill Char Siu Chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling over medium heat while basting with marinade gives a beautiful smoky char and works wonderfully if you prefer that method.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 2 hours is good for flavor, but marinating overnight allows the seasonings to penetrate fully for the best taste.

What is the best way to get the caramelized glaze on the chicken?

The key is brushing the thickened marinade on the cooked chicken and finishing under the broiler. Watch closely as it quickly caramelizes to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

Making Char Siu Chicken at home is such a rewarding experience that brings authentic Chinese barbecue flavors right to your kitchen table. It’s straightforward to prepare yet tastes like a special occasion meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this recipe becomes one of your favorite go-to dishes. Enjoy every juicy, sticky bite!

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