Char Siu Chicken is a delicious, sweet-and-savory Asian-inspired dish that is typically marinated in a blend of soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and spices, then either grilled or baked. It has a beautiful caramelized glaze similar to the famous Chinese char siu pork. Here’s a recipe to get that signature flavor at home!
Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (light or regular)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for authentic red color)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice wine, oyster sauce, sesame oil, five-spice powder, garlic powder, grated ginger, and food coloring (if using). Mix until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
- Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat up a grill to medium-high.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Oven Method: Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, basting with extra marinade halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized. For extra char, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Grill Method: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the marinade, until caramelized and cooked through.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. Slice and serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles.
Tips:
- For Extra Flavor: Double the marinade and set some aside (before adding the chicken) to drizzle over the cooked chicken for extra sauce.
- Alternative Protein: This marinade works wonderfully with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Enjoy your Char Siu Chicken with its savory, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor!