Char Siu, the iconic Chinese-style barbecue, is famed for its bold, sweet-savory glaze and irresistible aroma. This Char Siu Chicken recipe brings that classic flavor straight to your kitchen, with tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, sticky marinade that caramelizes beautifully in the oven or on the grill. Whether you’re craving authentic street-food vibes or want to impress family and friends with an easy-to-make exotic dish, this recipe unlocks the secret to perfectly balanced, crave-worthy Char Siu flavors — no takeout required.
Why You’ll Love This Char Siu Chicken
Authentic taste made simple: Capture the traditional Char Siu flavor with everyday pantry ingredients.
Sticky, caramelized glaze: Sweet, savory, and just a little smoky for that perfect bite.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing: Serve it as a main dish, in bao buns, or over steamed rice.
Quick prep, big payoff: Minimal hands-on time, maximum deliciousness
Great for meal prep: Keeps well and reheats beautifully for easy lunches or dinners.
Ingredients for Char Siu Chicken
Here are all the ingredients you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the marinade.
Soy sauce: This adds a salty depth and umami flavor that’s essential in Asian cuisine.
Hoisin sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that brings a unique flavor profile to the dish.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory elements and helps achieve that beautiful glaze.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Sesame oil: Just a hint of this oil adds a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the marinade with a robust flavor that complements the chicken.
Five-spice powder: This aromatic blend of spices adds warmth and complexity to the dish.
Black pepper: A dash of this spice enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it.
Red food coloring (optional): If you want that classic Char Siu look, a touch of this can give your chicken a vibrant hue.
Green onions: Chopped for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your plate.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. If you’re feeling adventurous, a few drops of liquid smoke can add a delightful smoky flavor. And for a spicy kick, toss in some sriracha or chili paste to the marinade. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Char Siu Chicken
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Char Siu Chicken. Each step is designed to ensure you get the most flavor and tenderness from your chicken. Follow along, and soon you’ll be savoring every bite!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, five-spice powder, and black pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is the heart of your Char Siu Chicken, so make sure everything is well combined. If you’re using red food coloring, add it now for that classic look. The vibrant color will make your dish pop!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can. Marinating is crucial; it allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. Preheating is essential for even cooking. If you’re using an oven, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later. A hot cooking surface ensures that your chicken gets that beautiful sear, locking in all those delicious juices.
Step 4: Grill or Bake the Chicken
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook! If grilling, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you’re baking, arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through. This step adds extra flavor and helps achieve that glossy finish.
If using reserved marinade for basting, bring it to a boil in a small saucepan for a few minutes to kill any bacteria.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
After cooking, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. Once rested, slice the chicken against the grain and serve it garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Tips for Success
Always marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor infusion.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
For extra tenderness, let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing.
Experiment with the marinade by adding your favorite spices or sauces.
Don’t skip the basting step; it enhances the flavor and glaze!
Equipment Needed
Grill or Oven: Either works well; choose based on your preference.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for whisking the marinade; any bowl will do.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple kitchen thermometer works.
Baking Sheet: Use one lined with foil for easy cleanup if baking.
Plastic Wrap: To cover the marinade while it chills; a lid can also work.
Variations of Char Siu Chicken
Spicy Char Siu Chicken: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the marinade for a fiery kick that will wake up your taste buds.
Honey Garlic Char Siu: Increase the honey to create a sweeter glaze, perfect for those who love a touch of sweetness in their savory dishes.
Herb-Infused Char Siu: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for a fresh twist that brightens the flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for firm tofu or seitan, marinating and cooking them the same way for a plant-based delight.
Serving Suggestions for Char Siu Chicken
Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy jasmine or sticky rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair with colorful stir-fried veggies for a nutritious crunch.
Cold Beer: Enjoy with a cold lager or pale ale to complement the flavors.
Garnish: Add sesame seeds and extra green onions for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Char Siu Chicken
As you embark on your Char Siu Chicken journey, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as breasts may cook faster.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, overnight is best for a deeper infusion of those sweet and savory flavors.
Can I make Char Siu Chicken in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just cook it when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal.
What can I serve with Char Siu Chicken?
Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. A cold beer or a light white wine also complements the dish beautifully.
Is Char Siu Chicken gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without the gluten!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Char Siu Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The sweet and savory flavors dance together, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re grilling for friends or enjoying a quiet dinner with family, this dish brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means you can focus on what truly matters—sharing good food and laughter. Give this recipe a try today and impress your family with authentic Char Siu flavors!
Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken thighs grilled or baked to perfection, offering a sweet and savory taste.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, five-spice powder, black pepper, and red food coloring if using. ( until the honey fully dissolves, creating a smooth marinade).
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. If using an oven, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If baking, place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve the sliced chicken garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the marinade.
