Char Siu Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try

why make this recipe

Char Siu Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by the traditional Chinese barbecue. It’s not only delicious but also simple to make at home. The sweet and savory glaze gives the chicken a beautiful color and rich taste. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a casual meal. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!

how to make Char Siu Chicken

Preparing Char Siu Chicken is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. In a bowl, mix together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice wine or sherry, minced garlic, five-spice powder, black pepper, and sesame oil (if using).
2. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or ideally overnight.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and caramelized. If baking, place it on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through.
6. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Ingredients :

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts, skinless and boneless
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or sherry
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

how to serve Char Siu Chicken

Char Siu Chicken can be served sliced with a sprinkle of green onions on top. Pair it with steamed rice or in a wrap. It also goes well with stir-fried vegetables or in a salad, making it a versatile option for any meal.

how to store Char Siu Chicken

Once you have leftover Char Siu Chicken, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Char Siu Chicken

• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to match your taste.
• If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• For an extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal if possible.

variation

You can easily swap chicken for pork or beef if you prefer. Adjust cooking times according to the type of meat you use since different meats may require different cooking durations.

FAQs

1. Can I make the marinade in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This makes meal prep easier.

2. What can I use if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
   You can substitute hoisin sauce with a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a little sugar for a similar flavor.

3. Is Char Siu Chicken spicy?
   No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add chili paste if you like it hot!