Authentic Char Siu Chicken is a sweet and sticky BBQ delight that brings the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine to your table.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:4 hours
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:4 hours 30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Grilling or Baking
Cuisine:Chinese
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon five-spice powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional, for color)
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice wine, sesame oil, five-spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red food coloring (if using). Whisk until well blended.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. If using a grill, oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If baking, place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve warm with rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time as needed.