If you’re craving something packed with bold flavors, sweet-savory glazes, and that unmistakable charred finish, this Char Siu Chicken Recipe will quickly become your new favorite go-to. Combining tender, juicy chicken thighs with a beautifully balanced marinade of Chinese five spices, hoisin sauce, and a touch of honey, this dish captures the soul of classic Cantonese barbecue at home. It’s a simple yet spectacular meal that brings the vibrant tastes of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen table, perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Char Siu Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creating the iconic glossy red glaze and succulent texture that make this dish unforgettable. These easy-to-find staples work together to bring out the authentic taste and beautiful color.
- 800 grams Chicken thighs, boneless skin-on: The perfect cut for juicy, tender results with a crispy skin.
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
- 1 tsp Chinese five spices powder: Provides a warm, aromatic depth with star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan pepper.
- ½ tsp White pepper powder: Offers a delicate heat that complements the sweetness.
- 3 tbsp Hoisin sauce or oyster sauce: Brings umami richness and a thick, savory base for the marinade.
- 1 tbsp Shao Xing wine: Adds authentic Chinese flair and elevates the dish’s aroma.
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce: Deepens the savory notes without overpowering the glaze.
- 1 tsp Garlic, grated: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor that harmonizes with the spices.
- 1 tsp Ginger, finely grated: Adds brightness and a slight zing to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tsp Sesame oil: Offers a nutty fragrance that enhances every bite.
- ½ tsp Salt: Balances the flavors to perfection.
- ½ tsp Food coloring mixed with 1 tbsp water: Optional, but classic for that vibrant red Char Siu color.
- 1 tbsp Honey: Creates a shiny glaze and sticky finish that you will absolutely love.
- 2 tbsp Water: Helps blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
How to Make Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Marinade and Chicken
This step is where the magic begins. Combine all your marinade ingredients in a large mixing bowl: brown sugar, Chinese five spices, white pepper, hoisin or oyster sauce, Shao Xing wine, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, food coloring mixed with water, honey, and water. Mix until everything is well incorporated and forms a glossy, aromatic sauce. Next, add your chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them thoroughly so every piece is generously coated. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least two hours—overnight is even better—to let all those flavors seep in and tenderize the meat beautifully.
Step 2: Cooking with the Air Fryer
If you want a quick and hands-off method packed with that authentic char, preheat your air fryer first. Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer and air-fry for 7-8 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a little basting sauce from leftover marinade. Use a brush to glaze the chicken and continue cooking until the thighs are fully cooked through and have the classic caramelized char spots that make Char Siu so addictive. This method is fantastic for crispy edges without excess oil.
Step 3: Oven-Baking Option
Alternatively, preheat your oven to around 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with foil or parchment and arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin side up. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes before pulling them out to brush with the reserved basting sauce. Continue baking until the chicken is cooked and beautifully glazed, creating a tender inside and that perfect slightly sticky exterior Glen
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once cooked, allow your Char Siu chicken to rest briefly. This resting period helps retain the juices inside the meat, ensuring every bite is delightfully moist and flavorful. After resting, slice the thighs into strips or bite-sized pieces that make them easy to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Char Siu Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Char Siu Chicken Recipe to restaurant-quality elegance. Freshly chopped spring onions or scallions add a pleasant crunch and mild oniony freshness. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds to reinforce that nutty aroma and add texture. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro inject a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
Char Siu chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditional steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice soak up the savory-sweet sauce perfectly. For a lighter contrast, serve it alongside sautéed bok choy or stir-fried Chinese broccoli. Pickled vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad provide refreshing acidity to balance the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Fancy something fun? Try slicing the chicken thinly and serving it over a bao bun with a drizzle of spicy mayo for an irresistible fusion snack. Or pile it on top of a steaming bowl of ramen or noodles, adding soft-boiled eggs and fresh greens for a comforting meal. Even a simple Char Siu chicken lettuce wrap packs a flavorful punch for a low-carb twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Char Siu chicken can be stored comfortably in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for weekday lunches or quick dinners. Just make sure to cool everything properly before refrigerating.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Char Siu chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked chicken slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to preserve freshness. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months—perfect to prepare in advance for busy days when you crave comfort food.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or leftover sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the dish loosely to prevent drying out. Avoid overcooking to maintain that tender texture and glossy finish unique to this Char Siu Chicken Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts are leaner, they tend to dry out more easily during cooking. Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor, which suits the Char Siu marinade perfectly. If using breasts, marinate longer and cook carefully to avoid drying.
Is food coloring necessary in this recipe?
The food coloring is traditional to achieve that vibrant red hue iconic to Char Siu, but it is completely optional. The flavor remains fantastic without it, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a more natural appearance.
Can I grill the Char Siu chicken?
Absolutely! Grilling imparts an amazing smoky char that intensifies the flavors. Just be sure to baste frequently with the marinade to keep the chicken moist and prevent burning.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate for at least 2 hours. Overnight marinating really allows the spices and sauces to fully penetrate the meat, delivering that signature Char Siu taste.
What can I substitute for Shao Xing wine?
If you don’t have Shao Xing wine, dry sherry is a common substitute that works well in this recipe. For a non-alcoholic option, you can use a combination of apple juice and a splash of rice vinegar.
Final Thoughts
This Char Siu Chicken Recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re an experienced cook or diving into Asian flavors for the first time, this dish invites you to explore the rich textures and tastes of Chinese barbecue right at home. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients and start marinating. Your next unforgettable meal awaits!
Print
Char Siu Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Char Siu Chicken recipe features succulent boneless, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of traditional Chinese spices, soy sauce, honey, and Shao Xing wine. The chicken is perfectly cooked either in an air fryer or oven to achieve a delightful charred glaze, making it a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect served with rice and vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 800 grams chicken thighs, boneless skin-on
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or regular white sugar)
- 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
- ½ tsp white pepper powder
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce (or oyster sauce)
- 1 tbsp Shao Xing wine (Chinese cooking rice wine)
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce (or regular all-purpose soy sauce)
- 1 tsp garlic, grated or garlic paste
- 1 tsp ginger, finely grated or ginger paste
- 1 tsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- ½ tsp salt (or salt to taste)
- ½ tsp food colouring mixed with 1 tbsp water
Basting Sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp water
- Leftover sauce from the chicken marinade
Instructions
- Marinating the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients including brown sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, white pepper, hoisin sauce, Shao Xing wine, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and food colouring mixture. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- Air-Fryer Option: Preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature (around 180°C / 360°F). Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air-fry for 7 to 8 minutes until the chicken starts to cook through. Prepare the basting sauce by mixing honey, water, and leftover marinade sauce. Brush the chicken with this basting sauce, then continue air-frying until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice charred glaze on the outside.
- Oven Option: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray lined with foil or a wire rack. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken is partially cooked. Prepare the basting sauce by mixing honey, water, and leftover marinade sauce. Brush the chicken thighs generously with this sauce, then continue baking until the chicken is fully cooked, sticky, and glazed with a slight char.
- Serving: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to redistribute the juices. Slice the chicken into pieces and serve hot alongside steamed rice and your choice of vegetables for a classic Char Siu meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight helps develop deeper flavors and tenderizes the chicken better.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar or honey according to your taste.
- If you don’t have food colouring, the sauce will still taste great but won’t have the traditional red hue.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs if preferred; just increase cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover marinade should be reserved separately before adding chicken to avoid contamination.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
