Name: Mouthwatering Char Siu Chicken: Your New BBQ Favorite!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts.); 1/4 cup Hoisin sauce (Use sweet soy sauce if unavailable.); 1/4 cup Soy sauce (Tamari is gluten-free alternative.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Maple syrup can be used for vegan option.); 2 tablespoons Oyster sauce (Replace with mushroom sauce for vegetarian.); 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar (Apple cider vinegar works as alternative.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Garlic powder can be used if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (Adjust based on personal preference.); 1 tablespoon Sesame oil (Can be omitted if unavailable.); 1/4 cup Reserved marinade (Use after boiling and thickening.)

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Few things can reshape a weeknight dinner like the enticing aroma of Char Siu Chicken wafting through your kitchen. As the honey-soy glaze caramelizes to perfection, it transforms simple boneless chicken thighs into a masterpiece that sings with sweet and savory notes. This easy marinated chicken not only brings the vibrant taste of Chinese BBQ right to your table, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for backyard grilling or cozy indoor roasting. Trust me, it’s a dish sure to win the hearts of both family and friends while keeping your prep time delightfully low. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will elevate your usual menu? Let’s dive in!

Why is Char Siu Chicken a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: Char Siu Chicken stands out with its sweet-savory glaze, marrying honey and soy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Versatile Dish: Use leftovers to create delightful interpretations like Char Siu Chicken Fried Rice or a fresh Char Siu Chicken Banh Mi.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The mouthwatering aroma and robust taste will impress family and friends, making it a favored addition to any gathering.

Healthy Indulgence: With just about 250 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy rich flavors while staying mindful of your dietary choices!

Char Siu Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Perfect for tenderness and moisture; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts, adjusting the cook time.
Hoisin sauce – Adds a sweet and flavorful depth; use sweet soy sauce if you don’t have hoisin on hand.
Soy sauce – Delivers essential umami flavor; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Honey – Provides sweetness and a glossy finish; maple syrup can replace it for a vegan option.
Oyster sauce – Enhances the savory aspect; replace with mushroom sauce to keep it vegetarian.
Rice vinegar – Adds acidity for balance; apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors; garlic powder can be used if you’re out of fresh garlic.
Chinese five-spice powder – Key for authentic taste; adjust quantity based on personal preference, but no substitutions recommended.
Sesame oil – Introduces richness and a nutty hint; omit if you don’t have any.

For the Glaze

Reserved marinade – Reused after boiling and thickening for additional flavor on the cooked chicken.

Embrace the flavors of Char Siu Chicken with this simple yet powerful ingredient list that transforms your dinner into a captivating experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your Char Siu Chicken cooks evenly, allowing the sweet and savory marinade to caramelize beautifully. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil, which will help with easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well-blended. This flavorful marinade is the star of your Char Siu Chicken, enhancing its taste and giving it that irresistible glaze.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible to lock in the flavors, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 4: Reserve the Marinade
While the chicken is marinating, take the remaining half of the marinade and transfer it to a small container. Seal it and refrigerate as well. This reserved marinade will be boiled and thickened later to create a luscious glaze for your baked Char Siu Chicken.

Step 5: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature
Prior to baking, remove the marinated chicken thighs from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook more evenly, resulting in perfectly juicy and tender bites of Char Siu Chicken.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and glistening with a beautiful marinade.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. This process will thicken the marinade, transforming it into a rich glaze to brush over your Char Siu Chicken.

Step 8: Broil for Caramelization
Once your chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and carefully brush the thickened marinade over the thighs, coating each piece generously. Return the baking sheet to the oven and switch to the broil setting. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes, creating a beautiful finish.

Step 9: Rest and Serve
After broiling, remove the Char Siu Chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful. Once rested, slice the chicken and serve, enjoying the delightful aroma of your homemade dish!

How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your delicious Char Siu Chicken fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed, freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Brush with reserved marinade for extra flavor.

Portioning: If you plan to use leftovers in dishes like fried rice or wraps, consider cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces before storing for effortless meal prep.

Make Ahead Options

These Char Siu Chicken thighs are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those delightful sweet-savory flavors to fully penetrate the meat. Just place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag with half of the marinade (reserve the other half in the fridge) and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, simply let the chicken come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. For the glaze, heat the reserved marinade until thickened and brush it over the chicken while broiling. This way, you’ll enjoy the same mouthwatering results while significantly reducing your prep work!

What to Serve with Juicy Char Siu Chicken

Transform your meal with delightful side dishes that complement the sweet and savory notes of this BBQ classic.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice, perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of the glaze with each bite.
Stir-Fried Veggies: Colorful stir-fried vegetables add crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the Char Siu Chicken beautifully.
Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad offers a crisp contrast, enhancing flavors while providing a cooling effect.
Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles provide a comforting, flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with the sticky sweetness of the chicken.
Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mash adds a hint of sweetness and a delightful texture contrast, making your meal feel more indulgent.
Chinese Tea: A warm cup of traditional Chinese tea will cleanse the palate, perfectly complementing the richness of the Char Siu Chicken.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake: For dessert, serve a slice of this sweet treat; its caramel notes harmonize beautifully with the chicken’s flavors.
Asian Slaw: A vibrant slaw with sesame dressing offers crunch and acidity, balancing the dish and adding a refreshing burst of flavor.

Char Siu Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Customization is the name of the game when it comes to this delightful dish! Let your creativity flourish as you explore these exciting variations and substitutions for your Char Siu Chicken.

Dairy-Free: Omit the honey for a vegan twist; use agave syrup instead for sweetness without lactose.
Hot & Spicy: Kick up the heat by adding a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the marinade for a fiery flavor boost. These simple adjustments can transform your dish into a bold statement!
Pineapple-Infused: Introduce some tropical flair by adding crushed pineapple to the marinade—this sweetens the glaze while adding a hint of acidity.
Sweet Soy Option: Replace hoisin sauce with sweet soy sauce for a different sweet-savory experience; similar characteristics, but with a distinct flavor.
Herb-Infused: Infuse flavor by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a topping after cooking to brighten your dish.
Char Siu Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into chunks, marinate, then thread onto skewers. Grill for a delicious, summery approach to this classic!
Asian Salad Topping: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, topped with sesame dressing for a light and refreshing meal.
Allergy-Friendly: For gluten-sensitive diners, ensure all sauces, including oyster and soy sauce, are labeled as gluten-free. Use alternatives like tamari and mushroom sauce for the perfect balance.

Feel free to explore these ideas or even come up with your own variations. Food should always be a personal adventure!

Expert Tips for Char Siu Chicken

Marinate Longer: Consider marinating the chicken overnight for the most pronounced flavors, making your Char Siu Chicken even tastier.
Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye while broiling, as the high heat can quickly burn the glaze—aim for a caramelized finish without charring.
Even Cooking: Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature before baking; this promotes even cooking and helps retain moisture.
Custom Flavor: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of Chinese five-spice powder based on your taste preference, but remember it’s key to authentic flavor.

Char Siu Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Char Siu Chicken?
For the tastiest results, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the way to go. They’re full of moisture, ensuring your dish remains juicy. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but be aware that they will require a shorter cooking time to maintain tenderness.

How should I store leftovers of Char Siu Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and delightful for quick meals throughout the week. If you find yourself with plenty of leftovers, consider freezing them for longer storage!

Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Char Siu Chicken for up to 3 months. Just place the cooked chicken in a sealed, freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For easy meal prep, portion the chicken into individual servings before freezing.

How can I tell when Char Siu Chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your Char Siu Chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while maintaining its juicy texture. Always double-check, especially with thick thighs!

What should I do if my marinade doesn’t have enough flavor?
If you think the marinade lacks punch, consider adding a bit more soy sauce or honey for balancing sweetness and saltiness. You could also sprinkle in additional minced garlic or ginger to elevate the flavor profile. Remember, let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor!

Is Char Siu Chicken safe for people with gluten allergies?
To make a gluten-friendly version of Char Siu Chicken, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is labeled gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that maintains the dish’s authentic flavors while being safe for those with dietary restrictions.