Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Authentic Char Siu Chicken Recipe: Sweet, Sticky, Juicy


  • Author: shareylady
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Experience the iconic flavors of Cantonese barbecued goodness with this Char Siu Chicken recipe. This dish features tender, juicy chicken coated in a signature sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that will impress everyone at your table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
  • 1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Honey or Maltose
  • 1 tablespoon Red Fermented Bean Curd (mashed smooth)
  • 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Fresh Ginger
  • 2 tablespoons Non-Alcoholic Rice Wine Alternative
  • 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper
  • Reserved Marinade (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons Honey or Maltose (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Water or Reserved Fresh Marinade (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim off excess fat. For even cooking, pound thicker parts or slice larger thighs into 2-3 pieces.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Marinade – In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey (or maltose), red fermented bean curd, five-spice powder, minced garlic, minced ginger, non-alcoholic rice wine alternative, and white pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Step 3: Marinate the Chicken – Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  4. Step 4: Prepare for Roasting – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange chicken on the rack, ensuring pieces are not touching.
  5. Step 5: Roast the Chicken – Roast for 20-25 minutes, flip the chicken, and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Optionally, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes for a charred exterior.
  6. Step 6: Glaze for Perfection – In a saucepan, combine honey (or maltose) with hot water or reserved marinade. Brush the chicken with this glaze during the last 5-10 minutes of roasting.
  7. Step 7: Rest and Serve – Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. Slice against the grain and serve with remaining glaze drizzled over the top.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Cantonese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Marinate for maximum flavor; the longer, the better! Use red fermented bean curd for color, or a drop of red food coloring if necessary. Ensure to use a wire rack for even cooking and to prevent sogginess.