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There’s a certain comfort that comes from savoring a home-cooked meal, and Char Siu Chicken embodies that feeling perfectly. The first time I caught a whiff of its sweet and savory aroma wafting from a neighbor’s kitchen, I was hooked. As the rich marinade envelops the chicken, the flavors meld together beautifully, promising a dish that is both tender and utterly crave-worthy.

This recipe takes the mainstay of Mandarin cuisine and elevates it with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With a quick prep time and beginner-friendly instructions, you’ll find that this Char Siu Chicken is not only a great way to impress your dinner guests but also a delightful addition to your weeknight dinners. Perfectly glazed and tender, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that’s reminiscent of your favorite Chinese barbecue. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s transform your kitchen into a savory escape!

Why will you love Char Siu Chicken?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of hoisin and oyster sauce creates a glaze that captures the essence of Cantonese cuisine.
Quick Prep Time: With a simple marinade, this recipe fits easily into your busy schedule.
Tender Texture: Chicken thighs ensure juicy, melt-in-your-mouth bites every time you serve.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners or celebrations, showcasing beautiful color and enticing aromas.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for novice cooks, this recipe delivers stunning results without requiring extensive culinary skills.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles to create a complete and satisfying meal! Dive into this delicious experience and impress your loved ones like a pro!

Char Siu Chicken Ingredients

Prepare to elevate your cooking game with these essential ingredients that come together to create mouthwatering Char Siu Chicken.

For the Marinade

Hoisin Sauce – Adds a rich sweetness that forms the base of the glaze.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami depth, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Oyster Sauce – Enhances the savory profile for a more complex flavor.
Honey – Boosts sweetness while aiding in that coveted caramelization.
Shaoxing Wine – Infuses traditional flavor; swap with dry sherry or chicken broth and vinegar for a non-alcoholic twist.
Sesame Oil – Contributes a delightful nutty aroma that enriches the dish.
Five-Spice Powder – Adds an aromatic complexity, perfectly capturing Cantonese essence.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the glaze’s sweetness and color for a beautiful finish.
Garlic & Ginger – Minced finely for a fresh, pungent kick that enhances the overall flavor.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – The star ingredient, providing tenderness and moisture, best suited due to higher fat content.

Optional Ingredient

Red Food Coloring – Traditionally used for a vibrant appearance; feel free to omit if you prefer a more natural look.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken

Mix In a large bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red food coloring until everything is well blended.
Coat Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to permeate the chicken.
Preheat When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a wire rack set over a baking tray lined with foil to catch drippings and ensure even cooking.
Prepare Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs skin-side up on the wire rack.
Bake Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
Baste Use reserved marinade to baste the chicken every 10 minutes during cooking for added flavor and a glossy finish.
Broil In the final 5 minutes, switch to broil mode to caramelize the edges, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing. Serve warm with steamed rice or stir-fried noodles, garnished with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.

Optional: For extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the chicken juicy while preserving its amazing flavor.

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

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, basting with a little reserved marinade to maintain moisture.

Room Temperature: Never leave the chicken out for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can develop. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly for optimal safety.

Char Siu Chicken Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Char Siu Chicken to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Chicken Breasts: Swap thighs for chicken breasts, adjusting cook time to prevent dryness. They’ll be leaner but still delicious.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade for that perfect zesty heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile in a lovely way.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu or seitan for chicken, marinating and baking the same way to enjoy those sweet and savory flavors in a meatless dish.
Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique twist and a deeper, earthy sweetness that complements the savory glaze beautifully.
Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange or lime zest for a bright, refreshing note that enhances the overall taste of the glaze, making it pop!
Soy-Free: For a soy-free version, replace soy sauce with coconut aminos, offering a slightly different flavor while keeping it equally delicious.
Pineapple Essence: Stir in crushed pineapple into the marinade for a sweet tropical vibe—perfect for a summer BBQ recipe or a fruity twist!
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic quantity for a stronger aromatic presence that truly defines the dish; you can never go wrong with extra garlic!

What to Serve with Char Siu Chicken?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with sides that enhance its sweet and savory notes.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice soaks up the luscious glaze of the Char Siu Chicken, making every bite a delightful harmony.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp and colorful veggies add freshness and crunch, beautifully balancing the rich and sticky chicken.
Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles bring a comforting, buttery essence that complements the Char Siu’s complex flavors.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing acts as a palate cleanser, countering the sweetness of the glaze splendidly.
Sesame Spinach: Tender, sautéed spinach with sesame seeds offers a nutritious touch, adding depth to your meal with earthy flavors.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls are a crowd-pleaser; they add a delightful crunch and can be paired with sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and soothing, this drink harmonizes well with the dish, cleansing the palate between bites.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet sticky rice paired with ripe mango complements the Char Siu Chicken’s taste, rounding off the meal perfectly.

Expert Tips for Char Siu Chicken

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for the best flavor infusion; this ensures the savory and sweet elements penetrate deeply.
Baste Frequently: Regular basting with reserved marinade helps create that beautiful glossy finish and intensifies the flavors of your Char Siu Chicken.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, always check the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Precise Cooking Time: Monitor the baking time closely, as cooking varies based on your oven; aim for a perfect balance of tender meat and caramelized edges.
Optional Ingredients: Feel free to skip red food coloring if you prefer a more natural look; the rich glaze will still enhance visual appeal!

Make Ahead Options

Char Siu Chicken is an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. Simply mix the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. For even easier prep, you can also pre-bake the chicken and then refrigerate it for about 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it retains that succulent taste and juicy texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to impress at a moment’s notice!

Char Siu Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken thighs for Char Siu Chicken?
Absolutely! Look for chicken thighs that are plump and have a bit of a sheen to them; these will be more flavorful and juicy. Avoid those with dark spots all over or a slimy texture, as these indicate freshness issues. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken for better quality.

What is the best way to store leftover Char Siu Chicken?
To keep your tasty leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method helps retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken. When reheating, I recommend gently warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to keep it tender.

Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze both the marinated chicken and the cooked product. For the marinade, place the uncooked chicken and marinade in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag; it will last for up to 3 months. For cooked chicken, let it cool completely before putting it in an airtight container; it also freezes well for the same duration. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my Char Siu Chicken isn’t browning properly in the oven?
If you notice that your chicken isn’t achieving that beautiful golden-brown color, try increasing the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) or switching to broil for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning! Also, basting with reserved marinade regularly during baking can help create a lovely caramelized glaze.

Is Char Siu Chicken safe for my pets or people with allergies?
While Char Siu Chicken is a delightful dish for humans, it’s not advisable to share with pets. Ingredients like soy sauce and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. For those with allergies, be cautious of the soy sauce and oyster sauce. There are gluten-free versions available if necessary, so feel free to substitute where needed!