Char Siu Chicken Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with Char Siu Chicken, a dish that brings together sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors in the most tempting way possible. Imagine juicy, slightly caramelized chicken thighs coated in a glossy, ruby-red glaze—each bite is bursting with that irresistible Chinese barbecue magic. This recipe transforms a handful of simple ingredients into something truly unforgettable, perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Char Siu Chicken is that the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one makes a big impact. Together, they create a marinade that infuses the chicken with signature flavors, sticky sweetness, and an iconic color.

• Chicken Thighs (300 grams): Go for fatty, bone-in thighs for juicy, flavorful results—these soak up all that delicious marinade.
• Honey (1 tbsp): Lends a rich sweetness and helps create that gorgeous sticky glaze.
• Light Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds saltiness and umami depth without overpowering.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers a unique savory flavor and a hint of complexity that elevates the chicken.
• Dark Soy Sauce or Kecap Manis (1 tbsp): Brings color and a deep, slightly molasses-like flavor that sets Char Siu apart.
• Brown Sugar (2 tbsps): Rounds out the sweetness and helps with caramelization as the chicken bakes.
• Garlic (2 cloves, pureed or grated): Fresh garlic infuses the marinade with pungent, aromatic depth.
• Ginger (1 inch, pureed or grated): Fresh ginger balances the sweetness and adds an unmistakable warmth.
• Chinese Five Spice Powder (1 tsp): This classic blend gives the chicken its signature aroma and complexity.
• White Pepper (Pinch): Adds gentle heat and fragrance, distinct from black pepper.
• Red Food Colouring (1 tsp, optional): For that authentic, eye-catching Char Siu look—totally optional if you prefer a natural appearance.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a medium bowl (or a sturdy ziplock bag if you prefer), combine honey, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce or kecap manis, brown sugar, pureed garlic, pureed ginger, Chinese five spice powder, white pepper, and red food colouring if using. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth and glossy—don’t skip this step, as a well-blended marinade is key to flavor-packed Char Siu Chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Seal the bowl with plastic wrap (or the ziplock bag) and refrigerate. Let the chicken bathe in those bold flavors for at least 2 hours, but overnight if you can—the longer, the better for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 3: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature

About 20 minutes before you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge. Allowing it to come to room temperature ensures even cooking and juicier results. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (390 degrees Fahrenheit).

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Lay the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray, leaving a little space between each piece. Pop the tray into the preheated oven, being careful not to overcrowd—this helps the heat circulate so every piece gets beautifully caramelized.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior is slightly caramelized. The edges should be sticky and darkened—that’s the magic of Char Siu Chicken. If you’d like an extra-glossy finish, brush the chicken with a little leftover marinade halfway through the cooking time (just make sure to boil any marinade reserved for basting, for food safety).

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once baked, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful. Slice the chicken against the grain for tender, picture-perfect pieces.

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken

Garnishes

The right garnish can make your Char Siu Chicken truly pop. Scatter sliced spring onions or fresh coriander over the top for color and crunch. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty aroma and delicate texture, while a few slices of fresh red chili offer a gentle kick for spice lovers.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely sings alongside fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up all those irresistible juices. Add a simple cucumber salad or Chinese greens sautéed with garlic for a fresh, vibrant contrast. Steamed bao buns also make a playful pairing, transforming your Char Siu Chicken into DIY sliders.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try slicing the chicken and stuffing it into lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on meal. You can also dice leftovers and toss them through fried rice, or layer slices atop noodles for an eye-catching and hearty main.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, and the flavors often intensify overnight, making leftovers truly crave-worthy.

Freezing

Char Siu Chicken freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled, sliced chicken into resealable freezer bags or containers; it’s best eaten within two months for optimal taste and texture. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the juiciest results, reheat your Char Siu Chicken gently in a covered dish in the oven at 150 degrees Celsius (300 degrees Fahrenheit) until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick blast in the microwave works if you’re in a hurry—just add a splash of water to keep everything moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs give the juiciest, most flavorful Char Siu Chicken, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts—just adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking, as breasts are leaner and prone to drying out.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

No problem! The food coloring is purely for that classic look. Your Char Siu Chicken will still be delicious and beautifully glossy even without it; the flavor is what really counts.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce—many Asian markets and grocery stores carry them. Double check all your ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Definitely! Grilling Char Siu Chicken over medium heat gives it a fantastic smoky flavor and charred edges. Just watch carefully and turn often to avoid burning the sweet marinade.

Can I marinate for less than 2 hours?

While the flavors are at their best with a longer marinade, you can get away with 30-60 minutes in a pinch. The chicken may not be quite as deeply flavored, but it will still be utterly tasty.

Final Thoughts

Char Siu Chicken is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—for its unforgettable flavor, vibrant color, and sheer versatility. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Dive in and enjoy every sweet, savory bite!

Print