Char Siu Chicken

Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by the classic Cantonese-style barbecue pork. This version uses tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet-savory glaze, resulting in a juicy and aromatic meal. The marinade combines hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder, infusing the chicken with a rich, complex taste. Whether grilled or oven-roasted, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 large clove garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

• 2 tablespoons honey (preferably amber-colored)

• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon ketchup

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

• 1 3/4 pounds (about 800g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, and sesame oil. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for 6 to 10 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.

4. Glaze the Chicken: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and create a glossy finish.

5. Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a platter and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 9g

• Sodium: 800mg

• Cholesterol: 100mg