If you’ve ever craved that perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors wrapped around incredibly juicy chicken, then this Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This dish captures the essence of classic Chinese BBQ with a homemade glaze that caramelizes beautifully while keeping the chicken thighs tender and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might sound simple, but each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and creating that iconic char siu glaze. From aromatic spices to rich sauces, this blend transforms plain chicken thighs into a show-stopping dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds): The star of the recipe, chosen for their juicy, tender texture that holds up perfectly to roasting and marinade.
- Hoisin sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds a sweet and tangy depth that is signature to char siu flavors.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Provides natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze for that irresistible finish.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): For the salty umami punch that balances the sweetness.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Contributes a subtle richness and enhances overall savoriness.
- Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (1 tablespoon): Delivers a warm, slightly nutty kick that deepens the marinade’s complexity.
- Chinese five-spice powder (2 teaspoons): Brings fragrant notes of star anise, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, and pepper for unmistakable character.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a toasty finish and aroma that rounds out the flavors.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Sharp and aromatic, giving the chicken a savory lift.
- Fresh ginger, grated (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle zing and freshness to brighten the marinade.
- Red food coloring (½ teaspoon, optional): For that traditional vibrant red hue often seen in char siu, but purely cosmetic.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): These add a fresh crunch and a beautiful finish when serving.
How to Make Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and optional red food coloring in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Then, toss in the chicken thighs and make sure each piece is completely coated with the marinade. Seal it up and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours; if you can let it sit overnight, the flavors will dive even deeper into the meat.
Step 2: Prepare for Roasting
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Set a wire rack on top for even cooking and to allow excess marinade to drip off, keeping the chicken juicy and preventing sogginess.
Step 3: Roast and Baste for Maximum Flavor
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the wire rack, reserving the leftover marinade. Roast the chicken for 20 minutes, then carefully baste each piece with the reserved marinade to boost that glossy glaze and flavor. Continue roasting for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and edges get beautifully charred. For a show-stopping caramelized finish, pop the chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute so every bite is juicy and tender.
How to Serve Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only add a pleasant crunch but also brighten up the rich, savory chicken with fresh color and texture. Feel free to sprinkle these right before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Char siu chicken shines when paired with simple, comforting sides like steamed jasmine rice or fluffy bao buns. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or noodles to create a balanced meal that captures the spirit of a classic Chinese BBQ feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get playful? Use your Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe as a filling for steamed buns, slice it thin for vibrant rice bowls topped with pickled veggies, or even use it in lettuce wraps for a light and fresh twist. The versatility is just as exciting as the flavors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after sitting, making each bite even more satisfying the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, or warm it in a skillet over medium heat while adding a splash of water to keep the chicken juicy. Avoid microwaving if you can, as that can make the meat tough.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While you can substitute chicken breasts, thighs are preferred because they stay juicier and more tender during cooking. Breasts can dry out more easily, but careful marinating and monitoring cooking time can help if that’s what you have on hand.
What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry is an excellent substitute that delivers a similar flavor profile. If you avoid alcohol altogether, a splash of apple cider vinegar plus a pinch of sugar can work in a pinch.
Is the red food coloring necessary?
The red food coloring is purely optional and mainly used to replicate the traditional bright red look of char siu chicken. It does not affect the taste, so feel free to leave it out if you prefer.
Can I grill the char siu chicken instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky element that complements the marinade perfectly. Just cook over medium heat and baste frequently to keep the chicken moist and build up that delicious glaze.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
The longer you marinate, the better the flavors penetrate. At minimum, 2 hours is fine, but overnight is ideal for maximum depth and juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that feel special yet are surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing loved ones, this recipe delivers a warm, inviting meal that’s hard to resist. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a delicious staple in your kitchen!
Print
Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Juicy and Tender Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful Chinese BBQ-inspired dish featuring marinated boneless chicken thighs baked to perfection with a sweet and savory hoisin-based glaze, delivering a slightly charred, caramelized finish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional for traditional color)
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red food coloring if using.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to fully permeate the meat.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking setup: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs evenly on the wire rack, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Reserve any leftover marinade for basting.
- Roast the chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the chicken for 20 minutes. Remove the tray and baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Continue roasting: Return the chicken to the oven and roast for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken edges begin to char slightly.
- Optional broil for caramelization: For a more caramelized and slightly smoky finish, broil the chicken under high heat for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and serve: Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Slice as desired and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if using. Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or in bao buns.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, this chicken can also be grilled over medium heat; baste regularly with marinade while cooking.
- Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
- Marinating overnight significantly enhances the dish’s depth of flavor.
- If you do not have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry is a suitable substitute.
