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Char Siu Chicken

Char Siu Chicken

Char Siu Chicken is a sweet, savory, and beautifully caramelized Cantonese-inspired dish made with marinated and roasted chicken thighs. Packed with bold flavors and easy to customize, it’s a vibrant alternative to traditional Chinese barbecue pork.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Char Siu Marinade:
  • ¼ cup hoisin sauce
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring optional, for traditional appearance
For the Chicken:
  • 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skinless (or use boneless, skinless thighs if preferred)
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
Ingredient Highlights:
  • Hoisin Sauce – Delivers a complex blend of sweet and savory flavors that form the backbone of the marinade.
  • Chinese Five-Spice Powder – A traditional spice mix that gives the dish its distinct aromatic profile.
  • Chinese Rice Wine – Adds subtle acidity to brighten and enhance the marinade’s overall flavor.
  • Honey – Provides natural sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and helps create a glossy glaze.

Method
 

Prepare the Marinade:
  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese rice wine, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red food coloring (if using) until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Cook the Chicken:
  1. Preheat the Grill or Oven: Set your grill to medium-high heat, or preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grill or Roast:
  1. If Grilling: Cook the marinated chicken on the grill for 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with leftover marinade. Continue until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. If Roasting: Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, basting a few times during cooking, until the chicken is fully cooked and develops a golden, caramelized finish.
Serve:
  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Slice the cooked chicken and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot alongside steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.