Char Siu Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Chinese-Inspired Dish

If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, Char Siu Chicken is the answer. Inspired by the classic Chinese barbecue pork, this recipe features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then roasted to perfection. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or in a sandwich, Char Siu Chicken is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, provide a step-by-step guide to making it, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love Char Siu Chicken

Char Siu Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold, sweet, and savory flavors. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Flavor-Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, sweet, and savory flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or in a sandwich for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Moreover, this dish is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Chinese barbecue at home, making it both delicious and economical.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Char Siu Chicken

Follow this detailed guide to create the perfect Char Siu Chicken.

Step 1: Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1.5–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/4 tsp red food coloring (optional, for authenticity)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Tools:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Baking sheet or roasting pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Additionally, prepare your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Making the Marinade

Now that everything is ready, let’s start making the marinade:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, five-spice powder, and red food coloring (if using).

Step 3: Marinating the Chicken

Once the marinade is ready, it’s time to marinate the chicken:

1. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish.
2. Pour the Marinade: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Marinate: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to cook it:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken on a baking sheet or roasting pan lined with foil or parchment paper.
3. Roast: Roast the chicken for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Broil (Optional): For a caramelized finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serving

Once the chicken is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy:

1. Slice the Chicken: Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Serve: Serve the Char Siu Chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or in a sandwich.

Tips for Making the Best Char Siu Chicken

To ensure your Char Siu Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too.
• Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Add more or less honey to suit your taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Char Siu Chicken

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it reaches 165°F (74°C) to keep it tender.
• Skipping the Marinade: The marinade is key to the dish’s flavor, so don’t skip this step.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure the marinade ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

FAQs About Char Siu Chicken

Q: Can I make Char Siu Chicken ahead of time?

A: Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook it when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use pork instead of chicken?

A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork tenderloin or pork shoulder.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?

A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Char Siu Chicken is a sweet, savory, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and tender chicken, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this delicious and wholesome dish. Don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—they’ll thank you for it!

Char Siu Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Chinese-Inspired Dish

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• Author: Lara Smith

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Description

Experience the delightful harmony of sweet and savory with our Char Siu Chicken recipe. This dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of honey, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, then baked to perfection. Perfect for any occasion, it promises a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

300 grams chicken thighs

1 tbsp honey

1 tbsp light soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce

1 tbsp dark soy sauce (or kecap manis)

2 tbsp brown sugar

2 cloves garlic, pureed

1 inch ginger, pureed

1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder

Pinch of white pepper

1 tsp red food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

Mix marinade ingredients.

Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).

Let chicken come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Bake for 20 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.

Slice and serve.

Notes

Char Siu Chicken is a savory and sweet delight that elevates any meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a must-try for lovers of Asian cuisine.