Char Siu Chicken Recipe

Sticky, savory, and slightly sweet, the Easy Char Siu Chicken Recipe brings the famous Chinese barbecue flavor right into your kitchen. Traditionally made with pork, this version uses chicken for a lighter twist that still carries the bold taste of classic char siu. With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you can make this flavorful dish at home without needing a trip to the restaurant.

What is Easy Char Siu Chicken?

Char siu is a popular Cantonese dish known for its rich, glossy glaze and sweet-savory taste. While the traditional version uses pork, this recipe swaps in chicken thighs or breasts, marinated in a mix of soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice. The chicken is then roasted or air-fried until caramelized, sticky, and bursting with flavor.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Restaurant-style taste – enjoy authentic flavors without leaving home.
• Simple ingredients – easy to find in most supermarkets.
• Quick preparation – minimal prep, with most of the magic happening in the marinade.
• Healthier alternative – chicken is lighter than pork but still delicious.
• Versatile dish – serve with rice, noodles, or as a side for Asian-style feasts.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Chicken thighs or breasts (2 lbs / 900 g) – thighs are juicier, but breasts also work.
• Soy sauce (3 tbsp) – the salty, umami base of the marinade.
• Hoisin sauce (3 tbsp) – gives sweetness and depth.
• Honey (2 tbsp) – caramelizes to create that sticky glaze.
• Brown sugar (1 tbsp) – balances savory flavors.
• Rice vinegar (1 tbsp) – adds tanginess.
• Chinese five-spice (1 tsp) – the key aromatic spice blend.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – enhances flavor.
• Ginger (1 tsp, grated) – adds warmth and spice.
• Sesame oil (1 tsp) – brings a nutty fragrance.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl for marinade
• Whisk or spoon
• Baking tray with rack (or air fryer)
• Aluminum foil (for easy cleanup)
• Tongs for turning chicken

Instructions to Make Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Prepare marinade – in a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sugar, vinegar, five-spice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
• Marinate chicken – add chicken to the bowl, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
• Preheat oven/air fryer – set oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook chicken – place chicken on a foil-lined tray or air fryer basket, cook for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
• Baste with marinade – brush reserved marinade over chicken halfway through cooking.
• Check doneness – chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and has a glossy, caramelized glaze.
• Serve hot – slice into strips and enjoy with rice or noodles.

What Goes Well With Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Steamed jasmine rice – simple and classic pairing.
• Egg fried rice – adds more flavor to the meal.
• Stir-fried noodles – pairs perfectly with the sticky glaze.
• Steamed bok choy – light and fresh contrast.
• Pickled vegetables – add tangy crunch.
• Spring rolls – for a complete Asian-inspired spread.
• Fresh cucumber salad – cooling and refreshing side.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Char Siu Chicken

Getting that glossy, restaurant-style finish is easy with these tips:

• Marinate overnight – deeper flavor comes with longer marination.
• Use chicken thighs – they stay juicier than breasts.
• Reserve some marinade – for basting during cooking.
• Don’t skip honey – it’s key for caramelization.
• Cook at high heat – ensures the sticky, glossy finish.
• Let it rest – a few minutes before slicing keeps juices inside.
• Cut evenly – uniform pieces cook more consistently.

Easy Variations of Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Spicy version – add chili paste or sriracha to the marinade.
• Gluten-free option – use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Citrus twist – add orange zest for freshness.
• Low-sugar style – replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Charcoal flavor – grill instead of baking for smoky depth.

Best Practices to Store Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Cool completely before storing – prevents condensation.
• Refrigerate in an airtight container – keeps fresh for 3–4 days.
• Freeze in portions – store for up to 2 months for easy meals.
• Label and date – so you know when it was prepared.

Best Practices to Reheat Easy Char Siu Chicken

• Air fryer method – reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
• Oven method – cover with foil and warm at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Microwave option – use short bursts to avoid drying.
• From frozen – thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How Can I Make Easy Char Siu Chicken Healthier?

• Use skinless chicken breasts for lower fat content.
• Cut down sugar by using honey alone as a sweetener.
• Bake instead of pan-frying to reduce oil.
• Add extra steamed vegetables as sides.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: ~290
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 670mg

FAQs

How long should I marinate char siu chicken?

Char siu chicken should be marinated for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, leave it overnight in the refrigerator. Longer marination allows the sauce to deeply penetrate the chicken.

Can I cook char siu chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, char siu chicken can be cooked in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway and baste with extra marinade to get that glossy, caramelized finish.

Why is my char siu chicken not sticky?

Char siu chicken may not turn sticky if there isn’t enough sugar or honey in the marinade, or if it’s cooked at too low a temperature. Basting the chicken while cooking also helps achieve a sticky glaze.

What cut of chicken works best for char siu chicken?

Chicken thighs are the best choice for char siu because they stay juicy and flavorful, but chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option.

Final Words

The Easy Char Siu Chicken is the perfect way to bring bold Asian barbecue flavors to your table. With its sticky glaze, tender chicken, and simple preparation, this dish makes both weeknight meals and dinner parties extra special. Try it once, and it may become one of your go-to chicken recipes for busy nights./

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