The intoxicating scent of Char Siu Chicken wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to bustling markets and family feasts filled with laughter and love. This classic Chinese BBQ dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, turning ordinary chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece. What I adore most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Plus, it’s a versatile dish; the leftovers can be transformed into scrumptious banh mi sandwiches or stir-fried rice, ensuring that no bite goes to waste. So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure and elevate your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the world of homemade Char Siu Chicken! Why is Char Siu Chicken a must-try? Irresistible Flavor: This recipe merges sweet and savory notes for a taste explosion that tantalizes your palate. Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can achieve mouthwatering results without stress. Versatile Usage: Transform leftovers into delicious banh mi sandwiches or fried rice for quick and exciting meals. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this Char Siu Chicken will impress everyone at the table. Authentic Experience: Enjoy the traditional flavors of Cantonese cuisine, bringing the essence of a Chinese BBQ to your home. Char Siu Chicken Ingredients • Discover the secrets behind this delicious dish! For the Marinade Hoisin sauce – Adds a sweet depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Soy sauce – Provides essential umami and salinity; consider using low-sodium for a lighter touch. Honey – Sweetens the marinade and contributes to a lovely caramelization during cooking. Oyster sauce – Enhances the overall umami flavor; if unavailable, extra soy sauce works well. Rice vinegar – Balances the sweetness with its acidity; substitute with white or apple cider vinegar as needed. Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with an essential aromatic kick; fresh garlic is preferred for authenticity. Chinese five-spice powder – Offers a unique, complex flavor; a mix of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves can be a great substitute. Sesame oil – Adds a nutty fragrance to the marinade; vegetable oil can be used, but it will alter the flavor profile. For the Chicken Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – The star of the dish, providing tenderness and moisture; chicken breasts can be used for a leaner alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Chicken Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure a perfectly cooked Char Siu Chicken with that delightful caramelized exterior. While the oven heats up, grab your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. Step 2: Whisk Together the Marinade In a large mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Whisk together until well blended; the marinade should be smooth and glossy, showcasing a beautiful depth of flavors. This mixture will infuse your chicken with the signature taste of Char Siu. Step 3: Marinate the Chicken Transfer the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This marination process is key to achieving juicy and flavorful Char Siu Chicken. Step 4: Bring the Chicken to Room Temperature Once marinated, take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly in the oven. While waiting, you can prepare the remaining marinade, which will be used later for brushing. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart for even cooking. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear, achieving a beautiful caramelized color on the outside. Step 6: Prepare the Reserved Marinade While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. This thickened marinade will add an extra layer of flavor when glazed on the chicken. Step 7: Broil for Caramelization After baking, brush the thickened marinade over the cooked chicken thighs, ensuring a generous coating. Then, change your oven setting to broil and return the chicken to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye during this step to achieve that gorgeous, caramelized finish without burning. Step 8: Allow to Rest Before Slicing Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender Char Siu Chicken. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it alongside your favorite accompaniments, enjoying every juicy bite. Char Siu Chicken Variations & Substitutions Customize your Char Siu Chicken to delight your taste buds and satisfy cravings with these fun twists! Dairy-Free: Substitute sugar with maple syrup in the marinade for a delightful sweetness without dairy. This will add a unique flavor profile that’s equally delicious. Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the marinade for a zesty touch. Spice lovers will appreciate this extra layer of heat that complements the sweetness perfectly. Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with firm tofu or seitan, marinating as you would the chicken. Roast until golden for a satisfying and hearty plant-based dish. Rice Vinegar Substitute: Use lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a bright, tangy flavor in the marinade. This small change can give your dish a refreshing twist. Flavor Boost: Incorporate minced ginger in the marinade for an extra depth of flavor. Its warmth beautifully complements the sweetness of the hoisin sauce. Crispy Texture: After broiling, allow the chicken to cool slightly then slice and pan-fry it in a hot skillet for a crispy finish. This adds delightful crunch to your juicy chicken. Sweet and Sour: Mix in a bit of pineapple juice with the marinade for a sweet and fruity flavor. Paired with the rich char, it creates a balanced taste experience that elevates your meal. Infused Chicken: Marinate chicken thighs with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant impact. This variation is perfect if you’re looking to surprise your guests with new flavors. Feel free to explore these variations while enjoying your Char Siu Chicken! For more mouth-watering recipes, you might like to try my delicious Buffalo Chicken Tacos or the fresh and vibrant Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza. What to Serve with Char Siu Chicken When you savor the succulent flavors of Char Siu Chicken, you’ll want to complement those delicious notes with equally delightful side dishes. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and savory juices, making every bite a luscious experience. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of crisp veggies adds freshness and a satisfying crunch, offering a vibrant contrast to the tender chicken. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights filled with vegetables deliver an extra layer of texture and flavor to your meal, ideal for an appetizer or side. Asian-style Cucumber Salad: Cool and refreshing, this salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the chicken, making it a palate-cleansing addition. Honey Garlic Bok Choy: Slightly sweet and subtly garlicky, this wilted green adds a lovely umami flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience. Chilled Soba Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles provide a satisfying chewiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet and fragrant chicken. Lemongrass Iced Tea: A fragrant herbal drink that brings a refreshing zing, complementing the rich flavors of your Char Siu Chicken perfectly. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat blends luscious mango with creamy coconut rice—a delightful end to your meal! Embrace these pairings, and enjoy a harmonious and satisfying feast! Make Ahead Options Char Siu Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep that can save you precious time during busy weeknights! To get ahead, marinate the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the flavorful marinade for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, ensuring the chicken absorbs all those delicious sweet and savory notes. You can also prepare the reserved marinade and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the marinated chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes, bake for 25-30 minutes, and finish with the reserved marinade for that perfect caramelized glaze. Resting the chicken after cooking will help maintain its juicy tenderness, giving you restaurant-quality Char Siu Chicken with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Char Siu Chicken Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring juicy and delicious Char Siu Chicken. Avoid Flipping: Keep the chicken undisturbed during baking. Flipping can lead to dried-out meat, so let it cook evenly for juicy results. Monitor Broiling: Broil the chicken for caramelization, but watch closely! A minute too long can turn your beautiful char into burnt edges. Use Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Save the Marinade: Don’t discard the remaining marinade! Cooking it down not only adds a tasty glaze but also enhances the dish’s depth—an essential part of the Char Siu experience. How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken retains its juicy texture. Freezer: Place cooled, cooked Char Siu Chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results. Room Temperature: Allow any leftovers to cool before refrigerating; do not leave cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours for safety. Char Siu Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the right chicken for Char Siu Chicken? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their richness and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster. Look for thighs that are firm and have a deep pink color without dark spots or any unpleasant odors. How should I store leftover Char Siu Chicken? Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain their juicy texture, ensure the container is sealed tight to prevent moisture loss. Reheating in the oven or microwave works well, so you can enjoy those flavorful bites all week long! Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken? Definitely! To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and for extra protection, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C). What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking? Oh no! If that happens, it could be due to overcooking. To avoid dryness in the future, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and avoid flipping the chicken during baking. If you find it dry after cooking, try serving it with a flavorful sauce or glaze, like the thickened marinade, to add moisture. Are there any allergens in Char Siu Chicken? I’m glad you asked! This recipe does contain common allergens such as soy (in soy sauce and oyster sauce) and sesame oil. If you’re cooking for someone with soy allergies, you can opt for gluten-free soy sauce or leave it out entirely. Always ensure to check ingredient labels if you’re unsure, especially when it comes to commercially made sauces. Irresistibly Tender Char Siu Chicken: A Homemade Delight Experience the delightful balance of sweet and savory in Char Siu Chicken, a classic Chinese BBQ dish that transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ChineseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Marinade1/4 cup Hoisin sauce Adds a sweet depth of flavor.1/4 cup Soy sauce Consider using low-sodium for a lighter touch.2 tablespoons Honey Sweetens the marinade.1/4 cup Oyster sauce Enhances overall umami flavor.2 tablespoons Rice vinegar Balances the sweetness.4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is preferred for authenticity.1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder Offers a complex flavor.1 tablespoon Sesame oil Adds a nutty fragrance.Chicken2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs Provides tenderness and moisture. Equipment OvenMixing BowlBaking Sheetparchment paperSaucepanMeat Thermometer Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a mixing bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil; whisk until smooth.Transfer the chicken thighs to a resealable plastic bag, pour half the marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.Arrange chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through and juices run clear.While the chicken is baking, pour reserved marinade into a saucepan, boil, then reduce to simmer for about 10 minutes until thick.Brush thickened marinade over chicken and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve caramelization.Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg NotesFor maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
