Name: Irresistible Char Siu Chicken with Sweet Savory Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 285 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Hoisin Sauce; 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 1/4 cup Oyster Sauce (Substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option.); 1/4 cup Honey; 3 tablespoons Chinese Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) (You can replace it with chicken broth and vinegar for alcohol-free.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil; 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder; 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Grated); 1 teaspoon Red Food Coloring (Optional); 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out faster.)

In the bustling streets of Canton, the tantalizing aroma of grilled meats wraps around you like a warm embrace, each stall offering a unique take on the legendary Char Siu Chicken. This easy Char Siu Chicken recipe captures the essence of that culinary journey, bringing home the sweet and savory glaze that makes it unforgettable. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of time for marinating, you’ll transform simple chicken thighs into a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or enjoyable dinner gatherings, this dish promises a delightful experience that’s sure to impress. Are you ready to dive into the delightful world of homemade Char Siu?

Why is Char Siu Chicken a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavors: This recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, reminiscent of your favorite Cantonese BBQ.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can become a home chef!
Marinated to Perfection: Let your chicken absorb rich flavors overnight for an unforgettable taste experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner parties or weeknight meals, and watch everyone go back for seconds!
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it over fluffy jasmine rice or tucked into bao buns, providing endless serving options.
Elevate your cooking repertoire with this Easy Char Siu Chicken with Sweet and Savory Glaze and impress your friends and family with a dish that feels like a takeout treat but tastes infinitely better!

Char Siu Chicken Ingredients

• Everything you need for amazing flavors!

For the Marinade

Hoisin Sauce – This sweet and tangy sauce forms the delicious glaze base for your Char Siu Chicken.
Soy Sauce – Infuses depth and umami flavor, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the marinade.
Oyster Sauce – Adds rich and savory complexity that enhances the overall taste. For a vegetarian option, substitute with soy sauce.
Honey – Provides natural sweetness that aids in browning and gives that lovely caramelized finish.
Chinese Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Introduces a depth of flavor; you can replace it with a mix of chicken broth and vinegar to keep it alcohol-free.
Sesame Oil – Imparts a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the marinade.
Five-Spice Powder – A fragrant blend that adds aromatic warmth to the dish.
Brown Sugar – Bolsters sweetness while helping to achieve a beautiful glaze color.
Garlic (Minced) – Brings an aromatic punch, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
Fresh Ginger (Grated) – Adds zesty warmth, cutting through the richness for a balanced palate.
Red Food Coloring (Optional) – Traditionally used for a vibrant visual appeal.

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, ideal for marinating and roasting. Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster when cooked.

Get ready to savor this delightful Char Siu Chicken, and let each bite transport you to the heart of Cantonese cuisine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red food coloring. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, thick marinade. This aromatic blend sets the stage for your flavorful Char Siu Chicken, creating a perfect glaze when cooked.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Place the marinated chicken into a resealable bag or a shallow dish, making sure every piece is well-covered. Cover the dish tightly or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the rich flavors, ensuring tender and juicy results.

Step 3: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a baking tray by placing a wire rack on top. The rack will allow air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking and that glorious caramelization that makes Char Siu Chicken so delectable.

Step 4: Bake Chicken
Once the oven is preheated, arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You should see the chicken beautifully glazed and slightly caramelized when it’s done, giving you a mouthwatering visual treat.

Step 5: Baste Periodically
To ensure maximum flavor and a lovely glaze, use a brush to baste the chicken with reserved marinade every 10 minutes during baking. This will enhance the chicken’s overall taste while keeping it moist. Be careful not to let the marinade drip onto the oven floor, as it may burn.

Step 6: Broil for Finish
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, switch your oven setting to broil. This step will give your Char Siu Chicken a beautifully charred exterior, adding a delightful texture. Keep a close eye on the chicken during broiling, as it can turn from perfectly charred to burnt very quickly!

Step 7: Serve
Once cooked, remove the Char Siu Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice the chicken and serve warm, either over fluffy rice or tucked into bao buns, for a delicious and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Cantonese cuisine.

How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and juicy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, around 10-15 minutes, basting with a little reserved marinade for extra flavor.

Cool Before Storing: Always let the chicken cool completely before placing it in the fridge or freezer; this helps maintain moisture and flavor.

Variations & Substitutions for Char Siu Chicken

Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken thighs for firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them to absorb the rich flavors. They’ll soak up the marinade beautifully, creating a satisfying alternative.
Different Proteins: Use pork shoulder or even duck for a traditional Char Siu experience; both options offer delightful textures and flavors.
No Hoisin? Replace hoisin sauce with a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar or maple syrup. This blend maintains the sweetness while keeping it savory.
Lower Sugar Version: Cut down on honey or brown sugar and substitute with a bit of agave syrup. You’ll still achieve a lovely glaze without the extra sweetness.
Extra Heat: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili sauce to the marinade to elevate the heat levels for spicy food lovers. It’s a game-changer!
Sesame-Free: Replace sesame oil with another neutral oil like canola or avocado oil for a similar cooking effect without the nutty flavor.
Baked Char Siu Buns: Use the same marinade and chicken to make Char Siu buns! Just shred the cooked chicken, fill your bao, and steam them for a delightful twist.

To explore more flavorful delights, don’t miss out on serving your Char Siu Chicken with some delightful Sticky Garlic Chicken or a side of Sticky Pineapple Chicken for a mouthwatering meal combination. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Tips for the Best Char Siu Chicken

Marination Time: Longer is better: Marinate the chicken overnight if possible, allowing it to absorb all the rich flavors of the marinade for a juicier bite.
Temperature Check: Avoid Dry Chicken: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.
Basting Benefits: Frequent Basting: Baste the chicken every 10 minutes during baking to enhance flavor and achieve that glossy, sticky glaze that makes Char Siu Chicken irresistible.
Even Spacing: Maximize Glaze: Arrange the chicken thighs with space in between on the rack for even cooking and caramelization; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Broil Wisely: Watch Closely: During the broiling step, keep a close eye on the chicken as it can char quickly; just a minute too long can lead to burnt edges.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Char Siu Chicken ahead of time is a wonderful strategy for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the marinade instructions, coat the chicken thoroughly, and refrigerate it in an airtight container or zip-top bag. This allows the flavors to deepen, ensuring incredibly tasty results. Alternatively, you can pre-bake the chicken thighs and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, then broil for a few minutes to revive that glorious glaze. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have restaurant-quality Char Siu Chicken on the table with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Easy Char Siu Chicken?

Indulge in a delicious dining experience as you craft a complete meal that perfectly accompanies the flavors of marinated chicken.

Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up the rich, sticky sauce from the Char Siu Chicken, making every bite a delight.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrition, balancing the dish’s sweetness.
Fluffy Bao Buns: These soft, pillowy buns provide an incredible contrast to the tender chicken, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Golden and filled with fresh veggies, these make a fabulous appetizer that adds delightful texture and flavor before the main event.
Tangy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, quick salad that provides a crisp texture and acidity, cutting through the chicken’s richness beautifully.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: Serve on the side for diner’s who love an extra kick, enhancing the dish with vibrant contrasting flavors.

Transform your gathering into a culinary celebration by exploring these delicious pairings!

Char Siu Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Char Siu?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for Char Siu Chicken because they remain tender and juicy during cooking. While you can use chicken breasts, be mindful they tend to dry out quicker. If you opt for breasts, marinate exceptionally well and watch the cooking time closely.

How should I store leftovers?
To keep your leftover Char Siu Chicken fresh and juicy, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to preserve moisture.

Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place marinated chicken in a resealable bag or airtight container and stash it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This method keeps the chicken flavorful and succulent.

What if my chicken is too dry?
If your cooked Char Siu Chicken turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is perfect. If you want to salvage it, slice it thinly and toss it in a mixture of warm marinade or chicken broth to moisten the meat back up.

Are there any dietary considerations for Char Siu Chicken?
Yes, if you need a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, following the same marination and cooking steps. For gluten-free considerations, swap regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari sauce, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What should I serve with Char Siu Chicken?
Pair your Char Siu Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a delightful meal. You can also serve it in bao buns, creating a fun and interactive dining experience perfect for gatherings!