Name: Savory Char Siu Chicken: A Must-Try Asian BBQ Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 4 thighs Chicken Thighs (Tender and juicy); 0.5 cup Hoisin Sauce (Substitute with BBQ sauce for a different flavor); 0.5 cup Soy Sauce (Low-sodium soy sauce is a lighter alternative); 0.25 cup Honey (Maple syrup is a great vegan substitution); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Omit for a vegetarian version); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced or garlic powder); 1 teaspoon Chinese Five-Spice Powder (Substitute with cinnamon, star anise, and cloves if needed); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Omit for a lighter version); 2 cups Steamed Jasmine Rice (Classic accompaniment); 2 cups Stir-Fried Vegetables (Adds color and nutrients)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The smoky aroma of summer grilling fills the air, and my heart races with anticipation as I prepare my favorite dish: Char Siu Chicken. This Asian-inspired delight features chicken thighs bathed in a savory-sweet marinade that transforms simple weeknight dinners into unforgettable feasts. With its glossy glaze and tender texture, this recipe is perfect for impressing friends and family or simply satisfying a craving for something homemade. The best part? It’s quick to whip up and packs a flavorful punch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your barbecue game and treat yourself to an exquisite culinary experience?

Why is Char Siu Chicken so special?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory marinade blends perfectly, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this dish allows you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the hassle.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it straight from the oven or try it in a Banh Mi sandwich or as part of a fresh salad, like Chicken Bacon Ranch.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests at summer barbecues or cozy dinners with this visually stunning dish.
Quick Cook Time: Bake and broil the chicken in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re a family of four or entertaining friends, this Char Siu Chicken will have everyone coming back for more!

Char Siu Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, ideal for this recipe; chicken breasts can be used but adjust cooking time accordingly.

For the Marinade
• Hoisin Sauce – This adds a rich sweetness and depth to the Char Siu Chicken; substitute with BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Soy Sauce – Offers umami and saltiness; low-sodium soy sauce is a lighter alternative without compromising taste.
• Honey – Natural sweetener that balances the savory elements; maple syrup is a great vegan substitution.
• Oyster Sauce – Enhances the richness of the marinade; can be omitted for a vegetarian version without losing too much flavor.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to brighten the flavors; apple cider vinegar can be used instead if you don’t have rice vinegar on hand.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; you can use fresh minced or garlic powder, depending on what you have.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder – Essential for authentic flavor in your Char Siu Chicken; if you’re out, a mix of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves can work as a substitute.
• Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty complexity; omit it if you need a lighter version.

For Serving (Optional)
• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Classic accompaniment that soaks up the flavors; perfect for a complete meal.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables – Fresh options add color and nutrients, making it a balanced dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step is essential as it ensures that the Char Siu Chicken bakes evenly throughout, resulting in tender and juicy meat. While your oven heats up, you can prepare the marinade and chicken for a seamless cooking process.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil until well combined. The mixture should have a cohesive, glossy appearance. This savory-sweet marinade will infuse your chicken thighs with a delightful depth of flavor, making every bite a taste sensation!

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of your delicious marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight offers the best results. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be once cooked.

Step 4: Reserve the Marinade
While the chicken is marinating, store the remaining marinade in the fridge for future use. Keeping it chilled ensures its freshness, as you’ll use it later for glazing the chicken. Just remember to bring it to a boil before simmering it for safety and to thicken the consistency.

Step 5: Prepare to Cook
After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and thoroughly. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have some space between them for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a beautifully caramelized appearance.

Step 7: Thicken the Marinade
While the chicken is baking, transfer the reserved marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The marinade should thicken to a glaze-like consistency, perfect for brushing onto the chicken.

Step 8: Broil for a Touch of Crunch
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and brush the thickened marinade generously over the top. Set your oven to broil, returning the chicken to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during this step to prevent burning, as it caramelizes beautifully under the broiler.

Step 9: Rest and Serve
Remove the Char Siu Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it warm, perhaps alongside steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Tips for Char Siu Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions: Consider serving the reheated chicken over rice or in a salad for a quick and satisfying meal!

Char Siu Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these variations and make this Char Siu Chicken your own culinary masterpiece!

Spicy Twist: Add fresh minced ginger and red pepper flakes to the marinade to elevate the heat level and enhance the flavor.
BBQ Style: Swap one part of the hoisin sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a new flavor profile that’s still equally delicious.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate the juice of a fresh orange or lime into the marinade for a bright, refreshing twist that balances the sweetness.
Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken thighs. Marinate just like the chicken and follow the same cooking instructions for a delightful vegetarian meal.
Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor that takes advantage of those delightful charred edges—perfect for outdoor gatherings!
Universal Flavor Base: Try mixing in some teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist or use a mix of soy sauce and miso paste for umami goodness.
Add Crunch: Toss in sesame seeds before broiling to bring added texture and a nutty flavor to your dish—great with a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Savory Salad: Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens with a sesame-ginger dressing, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea.

For a fresh take on your meal, consider pairing your Char Siu Chicken with a vibrant Chicken Bacon Ranch salad or mixing it into a hearty bowl of Sticky Chicken Rice for an all-in-one delight!

Expert Tips for Char Siu Chicken

Marinate Longer: For the best flavor infusion, marinate the chicken overnight. This enhances the savory-sweet profile of the Char Siu Chicken.

Room Temperature: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Broiling Caution: Keep a close eye when broiling to avoid burning. The chicken should caramelize nicely without turning too dark.

Thickening the Marinade: Always bring reserved marinade to a boil before simmering. This step is crucial for safety and achieving a luscious glaze.

Storage Advice: For the best leftovers, cool the chicken completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

What to Serve with Char Siu Chicken?

Transform your vibrant Char Siu Chicken into a memorable meal with these delightful pairings that enhance its savory-sweet charm.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
Fluffy rice soaks up the delicious marinade, providing a neutral base that perfectly balances the intense flavors.
Stir-Fried Vegetables:
A mix of bright bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli adds crunch and freshness, complementing the chicken’s tender texture.
Asian Slaw:
A tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast, making the meal light and satisfying.
Miso Soup:
This warm and savory soup adds umami and warmth, making it an ideal starter to enhance the overall dining experience.
Banh Mi Sandwich:
Use the chicken in a banh mi with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs, turning it into a portable meal that bursts with flavor.
Garlic Noodles:
Sautéed noodles with garlic and green onions provide a delightful palate of flavors and textures that pairs irresistibly with the chicken.
Chilled Sake:
This smooth rice wine provides a perfect sip to elevate your meal, enhancing the enjoyment of the savory dishes.
Mango Sticky Rice:
For dessert, indulge in this sweet and creamy delight, adding a tropical note that harmonizes beautifully with the Char Siu Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Char Siu Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic strategy for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those savory-sweet flavors to deeply infuse for maximum taste. Simply mix the marinade and coat the chicken in a resealable bag; refrigerate it until ready to cook. Additionally, the remaining marinade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just remember to bring it to a boil before using it. When it’s mealtime, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, and follow the cooking instructions for juicy, restaurant-quality Char Siu Chicken with minimal effort!

Char Siu Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Char Siu Chicken?
Absolutely, chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe! They are tender and juicy, allowing them to absorb the marinade beautifully. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them too, but be sure to adjust the cooking time; they may cook a bit faster.

How should I store leftover Char Siu Chicken?
For best results, cool your leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the chicken! Just seal it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring no air is trapped inside, and it should stay good for about 3 months.

Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap your cooled Char Siu Chicken tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. Ensure it’s airtight to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my marinade doesn’t thicken properly?
If you find that your marinade hasn’t thickened as expected, don’t worry! Simply simmer it on medium heat, stirring regularly until it reduces to a glaze-like consistency. If it’s still too thin, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water in a separate bowl, then add this mixture to the marinade while it’s simmering for a quick thickening fix.

Can I make a vegan version of Char Siu Chicken?
Very! To create a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. Use the same marinade ingredients; just be sure to omit the oyster sauce or swap it for a vegan alternative. Marinating the tofu overnight will help infuse those rich flavors, just like with chicken!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes, depending on your guests’ dietary needs! The recipe contains soy sauce, which may cause issues for those with soy allergies. Additionally, oyster sauce has shellfish ingredients, so it’s best to omit it for seafood allergies. Always double-check product labels if allergies are a concern.