Char Siu Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s the perfect balance of sticky, savory, sweet, and beautifully caramelized, you have to try Char Siu Chicken. This take on Chinese BBQ chicken brings together a harmony of hoisin, honey, and spices, delivering a vibrant color and unforgettable aroma that fills your kitchen long before it hits your plate. It’s easy to prep, incredibly satisfying, and just as perfect for family dinners as it is for showing off your skills to friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Char Siu Chicken so special is just how approachable the ingredient list is without sacrificing that iconic mix of flavors. Each component works its magic, whether it’s building a rich umami base, infusing aromatic layers, or creating that glossy finish we all love.

• Hoisin Sauce: This thick, fragrant condiment is essential for that classic sweet-and-savory profile—don’t skip it!
• Soy Sauce: Not only does soy sauce add seasoning, but it gives a boost of umami depth to the marinade.
• Honey: The natural sweetness balances out the saltier ingredients and helps create that signature sticky glaze.
• Chinese Rice Wine or Dry Sherry: A little splash provides subtle acidity and rounds out the marinade beautifully.
• Oyster Sauce: This rich sauce enhances savory notes and adds another layer of slightly sweet, briny flavor.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder: This spice blend is non-negotiable for a genuine Char Siu Chicken flavor—warm, aromatic, and just the right hint of licorice.
• Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic means bigger flavor—save the powdered stuff for another time.
• Minced Ginger: Ginger adds an earthy warmth that cuts through the sweetness.
• Red Food Coloring (optional): For that eye-catching, authentic rosy color, a drop or two does the trick (but feel free to skip if you prefer natural).
• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless thighs stay juicy and flavorful, but boneless, skinless versions are also delicious and easy.
• Sliced Green Onions (optional): A sprinkle of green onions adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
• Sesame Seeds (optional): These tiny seeds offer a subtle crunch and make your platter look extra inviting.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

Start by bringing together all the marinade ingredients in a bowl—hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine or dry sherry, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, garlic, ginger, and food coloring if you’re using it. Whisk until everything is lush and well combined; it should smell absolutely incredible already. This mixture is the soul of classic Char Siu Chicken, promising depth and that hint of sweetness with a gorgeous aroma.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next, nestle your chicken thighs into a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade all over. Make sure the chicken is thoroughly coated, then seal or cover and let it relax in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours. The longer you let the marinade work its magic, the more flavorful your Char Siu Chicken will be. Flip them once or twice to keep everything evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Oven

Whether you’re planning to grill or roast, now’s the moment to fire up the grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures you’ll get that lovely caramelized finish while keeping the chicken nice and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

For grilling, arrange the chicken on the hot grates and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping every so often and brushing on more marinade as you go. If roasting, lay the chicken out on a lined baking sheet and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, basting here and there. Whichever way you go, you’re looking for a glossy, burnished exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). That’s your green light to move on.

Step 5: Slice and Garnish

Let your beautifully cooked Char Siu Chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it up—it’s hard not to sneak a bite! Scatter sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh, finishing touch. Now you’re ready to serve the magic.

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken

Garnishes

Char Siu Chicken looks stunning with a simple handful of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. If you love color, add extra chopped cilantro or a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat and flair.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside fluffy steamed jasmine rice, but don’t hesitate to serve it with stir-fried noodles, garlicky bok choy, or a quick pickled cucumber salad. These sides soak up that delicious marinade and provide the perfect counterpoint to the chicken’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

To give your Char Siu Chicken a restaurant-worthy touch, slice it and arrange the pieces in neat rows, drizzle a little leftover sauce over the top, and serve with tiny mounds of rice and crisp vegetables. Or, pile sliced chicken into bao buns or atop noodle bowls for a fun, modern spin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Char Siu Chicken into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if the leftovers are just as crave-worthy!

Freezing

If you want to save Char Siu Chicken for another day, it freezes beautifully. Allow the cooked chicken to cool, then wrap slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Char Siu Chicken, pop slices in a covered dish and warm in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until hot. Add a splash of water or leftover marinade to keep it moist and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts cook a bit faster and can be a little leaner, so watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying out. Either way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors of Char Siu Chicken.

Is the red food coloring necessary?

Not at all—the food coloring is only for that iconic color you see in many restaurants. If you’d prefer to keep things more natural, simply leave it out; your Char Siu Chicken will still taste amazing.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight will deepen the flavors even more, making for an extra-aromatic and tender Char Siu Chicken. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to keep the texture at its best.

What if I don’t have Chinese rice wine?

No worries—dry sherry or even a splash of sake works great in the marinade. In a pinch, you can use apple juice for a sweet, subtle twist on the classic Char Siu Chicken flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to check is with a meat thermometer; your Char Siu Chicken is ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear and the exterior will be caramelized and glossy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring Char Siu Chicken to your table! With its bold, comforting flavors and irresistible aroma, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try, share with those you love, and enjoy every sticky, savory bite!

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