Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful twist on the classic Cantonese BBQ pork dish. This version uses tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a sweet-savory blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder. Grilled or roasted to perfection, the chicken develops a sticky, caramelized glaze that delivers a delightful balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed over steamed rice or sliced for sandwiches, this dish is sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
2½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
¼ cup hoisin sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce
¼ cup honey (preferably amber)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
2 teaspoons sesame oil
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the remaining marinade for basting. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly oiled rack. Bake for 25–30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve over steamed rice, with stir-fried vegetables, or in sandwiches.
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 800mg