Char Siu Chicken
Imagine a plate of beautifully glazed Char Siu Chicken, shimmering under a gloss of honey, soy, and rich spices—ready to whisk you away to the bustling food streets of Asia with every bite. This delightful Char Siu Chicken not only captivates with its gorgeous caramelized hue but also delivers an unforgettable taste that elevates it to the heights of Chinese BBQ Chicken perfection. In this exploration of Simple Asian Meals, we dive into the nuances of creating a dish that’s both a feast for your senses and an immensely gratifying endeavor.

As I tenderly brush the marinade over each piece of Char Siu Chicken, I can’t help but be transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen where the aromatic scents of soy sauce and garlic filled the air. She would tell us stories about her childhood while meticulously preparing the chicken, ensuring it achieved that perfect balance of savory and sweet—a taste that, to this day, brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Every meal was more than just food; it was a tapestry of shared stories and laughter, woven together with the love and care she poured into each dish.
If you’re eager to explore new flavors in the kitchen, why not start with this crispy bang bang chicken recipe or the delightful Chinese takeout sesame chicken? They might not be exactly Char Siu, but they share the same vibrant and delicious charm. These dishes will surely bring a smile to anyone at your dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Char Siu Chicken
- Easy to make with simple steps and no fancy tools required—ideal for Chicken Recipe Ideas For Dinner that can be whipped up quickly.
- Flexible ingredients allow you to easily change the flavor or style, making it a great fit for Pork And Chicken Recipes and ensuring you can adapt the dish to your tastes.
- Perfect for Family Meals Easy or impressing guests at a dinner party with its rich, savory flavors.
- Great dish for Quick Chinese Chicken Recipes—wonderful for busy weekdays when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
- Pairs well with various sides, making it a standout choice for Simple Asian Meals and a delightful addition to any Home Made Chinese Food collection.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Char Siu Chicken
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Whisk
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
- Instant-read thermometer
Step 1: Preparation for the Char Siu Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1⁄4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon sesame oil
Step 2: Cooking the Char Siu Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, five-spice powder, and sesame oil. Whisk together until well blended. Submerge the chicken thighs in this marinade, ensuring they are fully coated, and let them soak for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the rack, leaving space between each piece. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, occasionally basting the chicken with the reserved marinade.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with an instant-read thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 3: Assembling and Finishing
Once the Char Siu Chicken is cooked through and beautifully caramelized, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it succulent and tender when sliced.
For serving, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs, like sliced green onions or cilantro, to add a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. Pair with steamed rice and roasted vegetables for a complete meal that highlights the richness of the Chinese BBQ Chicken style.
Tips for the Best Char Siu Chicken Every Time
Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least a few hours to achieve an authentic taste. Overnight marination works wonders for a deeper flavor profile. Using a basting brush while cooking ensures the Char Siu Chicken remains moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Dish
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to match your taste preferences. Try adding a bit of chili paste for some heat or substitute the honey with maple syrup for a subtle twist. For a Healthy Savory Dinner Recipe, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and omit the oyster sauce, swapping in a dash of fish sauce instead.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Char Siu Chicken
This dish pairs perfectly with various sides. For balanced nutrition, serve it with jasmine or brown rice, and add a stir-fried vegetable mix for some crunch. Other ideal accompaniments include a fresh cucumber salad or Chicken Bites Meal Prep showcasing Asian slaw.
Occasions Perfect for This Recipe
The versatility of Char Siu Chicken makes it an excellent choice for many settings. It’s not only perfect for a quick weeknight Family Meal Easy but also a unique addition to any festive gathering. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress all palates.
FAQs About Char Siu Chicken
Q: What is Char Siu Chicken made of?
Char Siu Chicken is traditionally made with boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, five-spice powder, and sesame oil, which gives it a sweet and savory taste reminiscent of Chinese BBQ Chicken.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork for Char Siu?
Absolutely! Using chicken instead of pork is a delicious alternative that still captures the essence of Char Siu. Chicken thighs are particularly well-suited due to their succulent texture, making them a perfect canvas for the flavorful marinade.
Q: What’s the best way to marinate Char Siu Chicken?
For the best results, marinate your Char Siu Chicken for at least a few hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, bringing you a rich and intense taste with every bite.
Q: How to store Char Siu Chicken leftovers?
Leftover Char Siu Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well, making it a great option for Chicken Bites Meal Prep. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: What are the health benefits of Char Siu Chicken?
Char Siu Chicken can be a healthy option if prepared mindfully. Use low-sodium soy sauce and moderate the amount of sweeteners to enjoy a flavorful yet Healthy Savory Dinner Recipe that’s high in protein.

Tackling the Char Siu Chicken recipe is not just about recreating a delightful dish, but also about embarking on a culinary journey. It’s one of those Pork And Chicken Recipes that allow for creativity and adaptation, fitting comfortably into any category of Simple Asian Meals. The flavors are authentically rich yet easy to achieve, turning any gathering into a memorable feast filled with the amazing taste of Chinese BBQ Chicken.
Why not try pairing your Char Siu Chicken with some black pepper chicken for a complete meal full of bold and irresistible tastes?
Feel free to share your experience with this recipe in the comments below, or save it to enjoy later. We can’t wait to hear how your version of this classic turns out!
PrintChar Siu Chicken
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover a delightful and versatile Char Siu Chicken recipe that fits effortlessly into your Simple Asian Meals collection. Perfect for Quick Chinese Chicken Recipes, this dish combines the savory flavors of Chinese BBQ Chicken with the convenience of Home Made Chinese Food, making it ideal for Chicken Recipe Ideas For Dinner and Family Meals Easy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
- Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Place the marinated chicken on the rack and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest before slicing and serving with sides of choice.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Consider adding chili paste for a spicier version.
- For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce and substitute oyster sauce with fish sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese