Delicious Char Siu Chicken Recipe You Need to Try Today

If you are looking for an easy yet flavor-packed Chinese dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen, this Char Siu Chicken recipe is your new go-to. Coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory Chinese BBQ sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, slow cooker meal prep, or your next family dinner.

Whether you’re a fan of authentic Chinese recipes or just starting your cooking journey, this dish will win you over with bold flavors and a stunning red glaze. For more inspiration, try serving this alongside lighter sides like cucumber dill salad or even a fun seasonal dessert like Halloween Brownies.

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What Is Char Siu Chicken?

Char Siu (pronounced “cha siu”) is a traditional Cantonese method of barbecuing meat. While it’s most commonly made with pork, Char Siu Chicken is a mouthwatering poultry version. What makes it iconic is the bright red glaze and the balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love trying fusion chicken dishes such as Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken for a spicy kick.

Why You’ll Love This Char Siu Chicken Recipe

This recipe is not just visually stunning but also:

• Easy to make: Great for beginners exploring Chinese cooking recipes.
• Meal-prep friendly: Perfect for storing and using in quick bowls or stir-fries.
• Versatile: Works as a main course, in fried rice, or tucked into bao buns.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike love the sticky glaze.

For another family-friendly option, check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, which are just as easy and delicious.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Char Siu Chicken

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine (optional, substitute chicken broth)
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Red food coloring (optional, for traditional color)

Optional garnish: sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds

If you’re planning a big family spread, you can pair this recipe with hearty sides such as Scalloped Potatoes or Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken at Home (Step-by-Step)

1. Make the Marinade: Combine hoisin, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine or broth, sugar, five-spice, garlic, sesame oil, and food coloring (if using).
2. Marinate: Coat chicken and refrigerate for 2 hours to overnight.
3. Preheat Oven/Grill: Heat oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare baking sheet with foil and rack.
4. Cook: Bake chicken for 25–30 minutes, flipping and basting with reserved marinade.
5. Caramelize: Broil 2–3 minutes until edges char slightly.
6. Serve: Rest, slice, and garnish.

For busy mornings, you can prep the marinade ahead just like you would for Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls, whisk
• Resealable bag or container
• Baking sheet, foil, wire rack
• Tongs and basting brush
• Broiler (optional)

Tips for the Perfect Char Siu Chicken Every Time

• Always marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight is best.
• Use chicken thighs for tenderness.
• Baste generously to build layers of glaze.
• Broil briefly at the end for caramelization.

For more chicken cooking tips, see how we make Baked Chicken Legs with a similar juicy, flavorful finish.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Slice over jasmine rice with bok choy.
• Toss into a Ground Turkey Stir Fry with vegetables.
• Roll into lettuce wraps with cucumbers and carrots.
• Layer in bao buns or flatbread wraps.

For a fun twist, serve with finger foods like Snake Charmer’s Pretzels for parties.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

• Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap in foil and freeze for 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F or microwave in 30-second bursts.

This make-ahead approach works just like Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches, saving time during busy weeks.

Tasty Pairings: What to Serve With Char Siu Chicken

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Garlic sautéed green beans
• Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a light balance
• Stir-fried noodles
• Garlicky Kale with White Beans for added nutrition

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Use chicken breasts for leaner meat (shorter cook time).
• Replace honey with maple syrup or brown sugar.
• Add chili paste for spice.
• Grill instead of bake.
• Use tamari for gluten-free.

Another variation you’ll enjoy is the savory-sweet Pumpkin Chicken Chili, a cozy fall-inspired twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping marination
• Not basting enough
• Overcooking breasts
• Baking without broiling for caramelization

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FAQs About Char Siu Chicken

Can I use store-bought Char Siu sauce? Yes, but homemade is more customizable.
Is it spicy? Not traditionally, but you can add heat.
Can I use a slow cooker? Yes! Cook on low 4–5 hours, then broil for glaze. Try similar ideas in Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.
Can I meal prep it? Absolutely, it’s great for portioning like Zero Point Chicken Salad.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, this Char Siu Chicken is a must-try. It’s flavorful, versatile, and easy enough for any home cook. Serve it with classic sides, or pair it with modern dishes like Vegetarian Baked Ziti for a fusion dinner table.

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