Char Siu Chicken

Introduction

There’s something magical about Char Siu Chicken—it’s that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spice that makes each bite better than the last. If you’ve ever walked into a Chinese restaurant and been drawn to the glossy, red-hued roasted meat hanging in the window, then you’ve probably seen Char Siu. Traditionally made with pork, Char Siu is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine. But when you swap in chicken, you get a slightly leaner, yet equally delicious version of this savory treat.

This recipe has become a staple in our house—whether we’re hosting a weekend dinner or simply craving something comforting and flavorful. It’s not only incredibly easy to make but also delivers an explosion of flavor thanks to the sticky, caramelized glaze that coats the chicken.

As someone who’s always experimenting in the kitchen, Char Siu Chicken quickly became one of my favorites. It’s perfect for any night of the week, but I especially love making it for family gatherings. Everyone’s always impressed by how beautiful the chicken looks once it’s glazed and roasted, and the best part? The flavor is unbeatable. So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and impressive, look no further.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a professional chef to make Char Siu Chicken! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in no time. Plus, there’s no complicated marinating process here—just let the chicken soak in the glaze for a bit and you’re good to go.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing dinner for yourself, a date, or a large family gathering, Char Siu Chicken is versatile and sure to please. It’s sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, making it the kind of dish that appeals to almost everyone.
3. Flavor Explosion: The signature sweet and savory flavor from the marinade, with hints of five-spice powder, honey, and hoisin sauce, creates a rich, complex taste. The chicken turns golden and sticky in the oven, with crispy edges that add a satisfying texture.
4. Healthy Twist on Classic Char Siu: By using chicken instead of pork, you get a leaner protein while still capturing the bold flavors of Char Siu. It’s a healthier take on the classic dish that doesn’t sacrifice any of the taste!

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to make Char Siu Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat)
• 2 tablespoons honey (for that irresistible sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (adds depth and richness)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon Chinese rice vinegar (for a bit of tang)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (gives a nice nutty flavor)
• 2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder (this is the key to that authentic Char Siu flavor)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (adds a subtle spice and freshness)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for extra umami)
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry (for a depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to enhance the caramelization)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by prepping the chicken. I personally love using chicken thighs for this recipe because they’re juicier and more forgiving if overcooked. That said, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.

Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and then give them a quick rinse under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken is essential for getting that perfect glaze when roasting, so don’t skip this step!

2. Make the Char Siu Marinade: Now, let’s get to the magic part—the marinade! In a mixing bowl, combine honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Stir it all together until the sugar dissolves, and you’re left with a glossy, sticky sauce that smells incredible.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken into a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. This is where the flavor develops, so let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. For an even deeper flavor, you can let it marinate for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

I recommend making this the night before if you can plan ahead—it will give the flavors time to really soak into the chicken. If you’re short on time, don’t stress—30 minutes works just fine.

4. Preheat the Oven: While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’ll want to cook the chicken at a high temperature to get that crispy, caramelized exterior.

5. Roast the Chicken: Once your chicken has marinated, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. If you’re using a wire rack, it’ll allow the air to circulate around the chicken, helping it crisp up on all sides.

Roast the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through, use a brush or spoon to baste the chicken with any leftover marinade, which will give it an extra layer of flavor and help it get that signature glaze.

6. Crisp It Up: For a crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this time—it should turn a deep golden color and get beautifully charred around the edges.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once your Char Siu Chicken is beautifully caramelized and perfectly cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Slice it up and serve!

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken:

Char Siu Chicken is versatile and can be paired with various sides and served in different ways. Here are some of my favorite options:

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a classic and comforting meal.
• Pair with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for a well-rounded dinner.
• Wrap in a warm flour tortilla with some crunchy veggies and a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a fresh take on tacos.
• Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a little extra flavor and color.

Additional Tips for Success:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When roasting the chicken, make sure there’s enough space between each piece. If they’re too crowded, they won’t roast properly and may steam instead of crisping up.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh or breast. This will guarantee juicy, tender chicken.
3. Customize the Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the marinade. It’ll add a delightful kick to the dish.
4. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter Char Siu Chicken, add a little extra honey or sugar to the marinade. The glaze will caramelize nicely and give a beautiful sheen.
5. Resting Time: After roasting, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the moisture and ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Recipe Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a plant-based version, try using tofu or seitan in place of the chicken. Marinate and roast just like the chicken for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
2. Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure to choose a gluten-free hoisin sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade to add some heat to the dish.
4. Chicken Wings: Want to make Char Siu Chicken wings? Simply substitute chicken wings for thighs, marinate them the same way, and bake until crispy.
5. Add More Vegetables: Roasting some vegetables alongside the chicken is a great way to make this a complete meal. Consider adding carrots, onions, or bok choy to the pan for an easy one-pan meal.

Serving Suggestions:

• Sides: Char Siu Chicken pairs wonderfully with side dishes like steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.
• For the Kids: Serve with buttered noodles or even a side of fries for a more kid-friendly version of the dish.
• Beverages: A cold glass of iced tea or a crisp lager complements the rich, savory flavors of Char Siu Chicken.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits!
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked Char Siu Chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment:

• Baking Sheet with a Wire Rack: For the crispiest edges, I recommend using a wire rack on your baking sheet. It allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, creating that perfect charred effect.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

FAQ Section:

Can I use store-bought hoisin sauce? Yes, store-bought hoisin sauce works great! Just make sure to look for one with minimal added sugar if you’re watching your sugar intake.

Can I make Char Siu Chicken ahead of time? Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just roast it when you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have rice wine or dry sherry? If you don’t have rice wine or sherry, you can substitute with a little extra rice vinegar or white wine, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes! While thighs give a juicier result, chicken breasts will work as well. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.

Print

Conclusion:

I can’t wait for you to try this Char Siu Chicken! It’s one of those recipes that will impress your family and friends, while being simple enough for you to whip up any night of the week. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media—I love seeing your photos! Happy cooking!