Description
This Char Siu Chicken features a sweet, savory, and slightly smoky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. It is an easy way to enjoy Chinese-style BBQ flavors at home.
Ingredients
1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons brown sugar
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon Chinese five spice powder
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon apple juice
1½ tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons water
Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, salt, Chinese five spice powder, hoisin sauce, apple juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and optional red food coloring to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Arrange the chicken on the baking sheet, leaving space between pieces. Reserve the marinade.
- Roast the chicken for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan with water and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Brush the thickened glaze over the chicken and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes until glossy and caramelized.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but may be less juicy.
Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness or a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.
Add chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
