This Easy Char Siu Chicken is a fun twist on a classic! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet soy sauce mix and grilled to perfection. It’s tasty and colorful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they might dry out quicker, so watch the cooking time.
Hoisin Sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is key for flavor. If you’re out of it, try using teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce as a substitution, though it will alter the taste a bit.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the marinade. If you’re vegetarian, look for a mushroom-based oyster sauce or just skip it entirely while adding a bit more soy sauce.
Chinese Cooking Wine: Shaoxing wine enhances the flavor. If you don’t have it, dry sherry or even rice vinegar can work in a pinch.
Red Food Coloring: It’s traditional for that classic char siu look, but it’s totally optional. If you skip it, the chicken will still be delicious!
How Do I Get My Chicken To Have That Delicious Charred Finish?
The secret to that signature char siu appearance is all in the cooking method! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Roasting at high heat helps caramelize the sugars in the marinade. Make sure you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal results.
- Don’t skip the basting step! Halfway through, apply more marinade to the chicken. This adds more flavor and helps create a glaze.
- If you’re after a deep char, broiling at the end gives that touch. Just stay vigilant to prevent burning. A few minutes is all it takes!
Easy Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) or dry sherry
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional, traditional for char siu color)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (or longer for best flavor). The cooking time is around 30 minutes, so plan for a total of at least 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish. Just let the chicken soak up those flavors while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, Chinese cooking wine, five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red food coloring. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is your char siu marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let it marinate overnight!
3. Prep for Cooking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and helps it get that nice char!
4. Roast the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and arrange the thighs on the wire rack. Let any excess marinade drip off. Roast the chicken in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the remaining marinade and flip the pieces to ensure they cook evenly!
5. Broil for a Charred Finish:
If you want an extra charred look, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn—just a little char adds great flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips and serve it over steamed white rice. You can sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for an extra touch!
Enjoy your flavorful, glossy, and tender Easy Char Siu Chicken! It’s a delight for the senses!
FAQ for Easy Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be aware that they can dry out more quickly than thighs. Keep an eye on the cooking time and consider marinating for a slightly shorter duration to prevent overcooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 2 hours, but for the best flavor, aim for 12-24 hours. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge while marinating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Cooked char siu chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
What Should I Serve with Char Siu Chicken?
This dish is fantastic served over steamed white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal!
