Go Back
Char Siu Chicken, a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, stands as a testament to the rich culinary traditions and flavors that have been passed down through generations. This sweet and savory marinated chicken is not only a staple in Chinese barbecues but also a crowd-favorite that has made its way into homes around the world. The allure of Char Siu Chicken lies in its tender, juicy meat infused with a delightful blend of spices and sauces, making it a perfect centerpiece for family meals or festive gatherings.

Char Siu Chicken

Discover the flavorful world of Char Siu Chicken, a delightful dish that brings the essence of Chinese cuisine into your kitchen. This sweet and savory marinated chicken features a perfect blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder, creating a mouthwatering experience. Our comprehensive recipe offers step-by-step guidance from marinade preparation to cooking techniques, ensuring that anyone can master this beloved dish. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, Char Siu Chicken will impress both friends and loved ones with its tender, juicy meat and rich, caramelized glaze. Explore this recipe and elevate your home cooking!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the marinade:

1 pound (450g) boneless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon five-spice powder

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece ginger, grated

A pinch of red food coloring (optional, for color)

For serving:

Steamed rice or noodles

Sliced green onions

Sesame seeds

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and food coloring (if using). Whisk until smooth.

    Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.

      Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top of it. This setup will help the chicken cook evenly and allow the drippings to collect on the foil for easier cleanup.

        Bake the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Place the chicken on the wire rack, reserving the marinade. Bake for 20 minutes.

          Baste and Cook: After 20 minutes, take the chicken out and baste it with some of the reserved marinade. Return it to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is caramelized and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C).

            Broil for Extra Char: For a nice char on top, switch your oven to broil. Broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

              Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Slice the chicken thighs into strips and serve over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings