Description
Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful Chinese BBQ-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory blend of hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, five-spice powder, and garlic, then grilled or roasted to achieve a crispy, caramelized glaze.
Ingredients
¼ cup hoisin sauce
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (ensure halal-certified)
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional, for authentic color)
4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if preferred)
Optional garnish: sliced green onions
Optional garnish: sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, garlic, ginger, and red food coloring if using.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- For grilling: Grill chicken for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra marinade until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- For roasting: Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
- Slice the chicken, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Notes
Use turkey tenderloin or beef cuts as alternative proteins with the marinade.
Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha for spice.
Try tofu or seitan for a vegan version.
Cook in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours for hands-off preparation.
Add diced pineapple to marinade for tropical sweetness.
Add lemon zest or juice for a citrus twist.
Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; reheat in oven or microwave.
Freeze marinated chicken for up to 3 months; thaw before cooking.
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.
Marinate vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant with the sauce.
Cook on medium heat and turn frequently on grill to prevent burning.
Boil leftover marinade to use as dipping sauce.
Chicken wings can be used instead of thighs but require less cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: approx. 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: 6-8 g
- Sodium: 600-800 mg
- Fat: 10-15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3-5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5-8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
- Fiber: 0-1 g
- Protein: 25-30 g
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
