Name: Delicious Char Siu Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that brings a vibrant taste of Chinese BBQ right into your kitchen? This Delicious Char Siu Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Sticky, juicy, and mouthwateringly tender, Char Siu chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Ideal for weeknight dinners or for impressing your guests at gatherings, this recipe provides a delicious way to elevate your dining experience without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beautiful glossy glaze, infused with a mix of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of Chinese spices, adds an irresistible appeal to the chicken. Not only does this recipe boast bold flavors, but it is also surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Perfect served alongside rice, wrapped in buns, or tossed in with noodles, this Char Siu chicken is versatile and sure to satisfy any palate.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekly meal plan or you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing recipe, look no further. Join me as we dive into the preparation of this delicious Char Siu Chicken and explore why it deserves a spot on your dining table!

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Char Siu Chicken

Once you try making Delicious Char Siu Chicken, you’ll want to add it to your list of go-to recipes. Here are a few reasons why it’s so beloved:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of hoisin, soy sauce, and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can create a fantastic dish.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or in a sandwich; the possibilities are endless!
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making your Delicious Char Siu Chicken, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring you have a clean workspace, which makes the entire cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Having all your ingredients laid out and measured will also save you time.

Here’s what you’ll need:

A large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken.
A baking tray lined with foil for easy cleanup.
A wire rack to allow even cooking and crisping of the chicken.
Optional: A basting brush for applying the marinade.

Once you have your tools ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Ingredients

Gathering fresh ingredients is the key to making a delectable Delicious Char Siu Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, Chinese Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red food coloring if you want that classic Char Siu look. Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly blended and smooth, creating a luscious marinade that will coat your chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl. Ensure each piece is evenly coated in the marinade. This step is crucial; the longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender your chicken will become. Ideally, allow it to marinate for at least 3 hours, or for a richer flavor, leave it overnight in a sealed container or plastic bag in the fridge.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Tray

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, line a baking tray with aluminum foil – this will minimize the mess during cooking and simplify cleanup. Place a wire rack on top; this allows hot air to circulate around the chicken while it cooks, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

Take your chicken thighs out of the marinade and shake off any excess before placing them on the wire rack. Reserve the leftover marinade for basting later. Roast the chicken in the oven for 15 minutes. This initial roast helps to set the marinade and starts the cooking process.

Step 5: Baste and Flip

After the first roasting period, it’s time to baste! Use the reserved marinade to brush the chicken, flipping it over and basting the other side. Return to the oven and keep cooking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Broil for a Caramelized Finish

To achieve that coveted caramelized glaze, switch your oven setting to broil. Broil the chicken for an additional 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as this step can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to burnt. The broiling adds that rich color and enhances the flavors.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bite. After resting, slice the chicken into pieces and serve it with your favorite accompaniments, such as rice, steamed buns, or noodles.

Variations

One of the great aspects of the Delicious Char Siu Chicken is its flexibility. Here are some variations you can try:

Protein: Swap out the chicken thighs for pork or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, or broccoli to the marinade and roast alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
Spices: Customize the spices to suit your preferences. Try adding chili flakes for heat or using honey garlic sauce for extra sweetness.

Cooking Notes

To ensure your Char Siu chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these cooking notes:

Marinate overnight if possible; it significantly enhances flavor and tenderness.
Boneless chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
Be mindful during the broiling step—stay close to your oven, as it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.
Let the chicken rest post-cooking; this helps maintain its juices for a more succulent bite.

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to serve your Delicious Char Siu Chicken for an unforgettable meal:

Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for an authentic feel.
Pair with steamed buns for a delightful snack or meal.
Toss sliced chicken into a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips for perfecting your dish:

Ensure your oven is preheated before roasting for even cooking.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
For meal prep, store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently to maintain moisture, either in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they may not be as juicy as thighs.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

What can I serve with Char Siu Chicken?

This dish pairs excellently with rice, buns, or steamed vegetables.

Can I marinate the chicken for longer than overnight?

Marinating for more than 24 hours is not recommended, as it can cause the chicken to become overly salty or mushy.

Conclusion

The Delicious Char Siu Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a delicious experience that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. Impress your family and friends with this easy yet delectable dish that celebrates the essence of Chinese BBQ. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your variations or serving suggestions, and make it your own. Share your cooking experience, comment below, and let us know how your Char Siu chicken turned out. Enjoy your culinary adventure!