Char Siu Chicken, a mouthwatering twist on the traditional Cantonese BBQ pork dish, is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that melt in your mouth. This ultimate guide walks you through how to create restaurant-quality Char Siu Chicken at home that’s both juicy and tender, with a glossy, caramelized glaze that’s truly irresistible.
What Is Char Siu Chicken?
Char Siu, meaning “fork roasted,” refers to a style of Chinese barbecuing where meats are marinated in a deeply flavorful sauce and then roasted to achieve a beautiful reddish glaze. While traditionally made with pork, Char Siu Chicken is a delicious variation that keeps the signature flavor but offers a leaner protein alternative. The result is succulent chicken marinated in hoisin, soy, honey, and Chinese five-spice—perfectly charred on the outside, yet tender and juicy within.
Ingredients for Authentic Char Siu Chicken
To achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures, you need the right combination of ingredients:
For the Marinade:
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4 boneless chicken thighs (skin-on for extra flavor)
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2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
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1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
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1 teaspoon grated ginger
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for the signature red hue)
For Basting:
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon reserved marinade
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Char Siu Chicken
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the marinade to use later for basting.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or container, and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This ensures the chicken absorbs all the complex flavors.
3. Preheat Your Oven or Grill
If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the heat to circulate and the chicken to roast evenly.
If grilling, set it to medium heat and oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4. Roast or Grill the Chicken
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the rack or grill. Roast for 20 minutes, then flip and roast another 10 minutes.
For grilled versions, cook for about 15-20 minutes total, turning occasionally.
5. Baste for the Signature Glaze
Mix the reserved marinade with the honey. During the last 5–7 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze over the chicken and cook until glossy and caramelized, flipping once to glaze both sides. You’re looking for that sticky, shiny lacquer that’s iconic in Char Siu.
6. Rest and Slice
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. Slice thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness, and serve with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or inside bao buns for a fusion twist.
Tips for Perfect Char Siu Chicken Every Time
Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness
Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful throughout the high-heat cooking process. While chicken breasts can be used, they are less forgiving and may dry out.
Marinate Overnight
Marinating for a full 8-12 hours is key to achieving deep flavor penetration. The combination of sugar and soy helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor.
Double Basting Technique
For an even deeper glaze, baste twice during the final stages of cooking. The sugars will caramelize, enhancing the stickiness and flavor complexity.
Add a Smoky Element
For that authentic barbecue flavor, consider smoking the chicken lightly or adding a few soaked wood chips to your grill.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Char Siu Chicken
Char Siu Chicken is highly versatile and can be served in various ways:
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With steamed jasmine rice and Chinese greens like bok choy
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As a topping for ramen or noodle bowls
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Wrapped in steamed bao buns with pickled cucumbers and hoisin drizzle
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In fried rice, chopped into bite-size pieces
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Over a salad with sesame dressing for a lighter take
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until hot. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the glaze to become soggy.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 24g
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Fat: 14g
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Sugars: 10g
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Sodium: 650mg
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Why This Char Siu Chicken Recipe Works
This recipe honors traditional Chinese BBQ flavors while adapting them for home kitchens without sacrificing authenticity. The perfect blend of savory soy, sweet honey, and aromatic five-spice creates a marinade that permeates every bite. Whether oven-roasted or grilled, the result is always succulent, tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and easy enough for weeknight cooking.
Final Thoughts: Make It Yours
Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your preferences:
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Spice it up with chili paste or Szechuan peppercorns
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Use chicken wings or drumsticks for party-friendly versions
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Create a glaze-only version for a quick Char Siu-inspired weeknight dish
Char Siu Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a delicious cultural experience you can create at home.
