Total Cooking Time: About 55 minutes (plus marinating time)
Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium
There’s something instantly comforting about the glossy, lacquered look of Char Siu Chicken as it comes out of the oven or pan. The deep reddish-brown glaze clings to every curve of the chicken, catching the light and promising that irresistible balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. As it cooks, the aroma fills the kitchen with notes of honey, soy, garlic, and warm spices, making it nearly impossible to wait until dinner is served. Each bite delivers tender, juicy meat coated in a sticky sauce that caramelizes beautifully, giving you that classic Chinese barbecue experience at home.
What makes this recipe special is how approachable it is. Traditional char siu is often associated with roasted pork, but chicken takes on the marinade just as well and cooks faster, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend meals. This dish is ideal for family dinners, small gatherings, or even meal prep when you want something exciting that still reheats well. Serve it with fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, or tucked into bao-style buns. Depending on portion size, this dish averages around 350–400 calories per serving, making it satisfying without being overly heavy.
Key Ingredients
Chicken Thighs or Breasts – The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender meat that absorbs the marinade beautifully
Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness, depth, and that signature Chinese barbecue flavor
Soy Sauce – Brings savory umami and balances the sweetness
Honey – Creates the sticky glaze and caramelized finish
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps develop a rich, glossy color
Chinese Five-Spice Powder – Adds warmth with notes of star anise, clove, and cinnamon
Garlic – Provides a pungent, savory backbone to the marinade
Fresh Ginger – Adds brightness and subtle heat
Rice Vinegar – Balances richness with gentle acidity
Sesame Oil – Contributes nutty aroma and depth
Ketchup – Traditional in char siu, adding tang and color
Shaoxing Wine or Dry Sherry – Adds complexity and authenticity
Red Food Coloring (optional) – Gives the classic char siu red hue
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and balance
Salt – Enhances all the flavors
Scallions – Fresh garnish for color and mild onion flavor
Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for texture and nuttiness
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five-spice powder, black pepper, and Shaoxing wine. Whisk until smooth and glossy. If you want the traditional reddish color, stir in a few drops of red food coloring at this stage.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade clings properly. Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure each piece is fully coated. Massage gently to work the sauce into the meat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 4–8 hours will give you deeper flavor.
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow heat to circulate evenly. Arrange the marinated chicken on the rack, reserving extra marinade for basting. Roast for about 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through and brushing with additional marinade to build layers of flavor.
For that signature sticky finish, switch the oven to broil during the last 3–5 minutes. Watch closely as the sugars caramelize, creating lightly charred edges and a glossy glaze. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute and the glaze to set.
Serving Suggestions
Char Siu Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving, making it a joy to plate and share. For a classic presentation, slice the chicken and arrange it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Spoon extra glaze from the pan over the top and scatter chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a polished finish. Add a side of sautéed bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas to bring freshness and color to the plate. Served family-style on a large platter, this dish becomes the centerpiece of the table, inviting everyone to help themselves.
For a more playful approach, turn this recipe into a build-your-own bowl or wrap night. Offer warm rice or noodles, shredded lettuce, quick-pickled cucumbers, and chili oil on the side so everyone can customize their meal. The sweet and sticky chicken also works beautifully tucked into steamed buns or soft tortillas for an Asian-inspired twist. Whether plated individually for a cozy dinner or spread out buffet-style for guests, Char Siu Chicken always looks vibrant, glossy, and irresistibly inviting.
Storage + Meal Prep
This dish is excellent for leftovers and meal prep, making it as practical as it is delicious. Once cooled, store leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep any extra sauce separate if possible, as this helps maintain the chicken’s texture and prevents it from becoming overly soft. If you plan to freeze it, slice the chicken first and store it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the glaze, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying it out. Adding fresh garnishes like scallions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of honey can revive the flavors on day two. For meal prep, pair the chicken with rice and roasted vegetables in individual containers for quick lunches that still feel special and satisfying.
Conclusion
Char Siu Chicken brings the magic of Chinese-style barbecue right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum reward. Its glossy glaze, tender meat, and bold yet balanced flavors make it a dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with everyday ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to make it your own by adjusting sweetness, adding spice, or trying different sides. Cooking is about joy and creativity, and this Char Siu Chicken is a perfect canvas for both. Give it a try, savor the aromas, and let it become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
