Delicious Char Siu Chicken

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Delicious Char Siu Chicken is a mouthwatering dish inspired by the famous Chinese barbecued pork, Char Siu. This recipe brings the same rich flavors and tender texture to chicken, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The sweet and savory marinade permeates the chicken, creating a dish that’s full of umami and perfect for serving with rice or in wraps. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you will find this recipe straightforward and satisfying.

What Is Delicious Char Siu Chicken?

Delicious Char Siu Chicken refers to chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce typically used for Char Siu pork. The sauce is essential as it contains key ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder, which together create a flavor profile that is both unique and incredibly appealing. The cooking method often involves grilling or roasting, which allows the sugars in the marinade to caramelize, resulting in a beautifully glazed and flavorful dish. This chicken variant appeals to a broader audience while retaining the essence of traditional Char Siu.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll absolutely love this recipe because it’s not just about taste; it’s also about convenience. Perfect for busy parents wishing to prepare a delicious meal quickly, this dish comes together in under an hour. The ingredients are accessible, and the marinade can be made while the chicken is marinating, preserving precious time in the kitchen. Additionally, the flavor versatility of Char Siu Chicken allows it to be enjoyed in various meals—served alongside steamed rice, used as a filling for bao buns, or even as a topping for salads. The appeal of this recipe is undeniable, making it a go-to option for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken thighs: 500 grams, skinless and boneless. Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor.
• Soy sauce: ¼ cup. This provides umami and depth to the marinade.
• Honey: 3 tablespoons. Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization.
• Chinese five-spice powder: 1 teaspoon. This blend gives the chicken its characteristic flavor.
• Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons. Provides acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Adds aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated. Gives a warm, spicy undertone.
• Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon. Enhances flavor with a rich nuttiness.
• Spring onions: 2, chopped. For garnishing, adds freshness and color.

How to Make

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade. Stir well until all ingredients are fully blended and the honey is dissolved.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for optimal flavor absorption.
3. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy clean-up and place a wire rack over the tray. This allows the heat to circulate the chicken evenly.
4. Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. Place the chicken thighs on the wire rack.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Halfway through cooking, brush a little extra marinade over the chicken for improved flavor and glaze.
6. After 20 minutes, turn on the broiler for the final 5-7 minutes to achieve a beautiful char on the top. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
7. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
8. Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving, and enjoy your Delicious Char Siu Chicken with steamed rice or in wraps!

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Char Siu Chicken: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your preferred spice level. The heat will contrast beautifully with the sweetness, creating a balanced dish that wakes up your taste buds.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian take, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. Marinate as directed and bake until golden and crispy. This version retains the flavor profile while offering a plant-based alternative.

Honey-Free Version: For those avoiding sugar, you can utilize maple syrup or agave nectar as a natural sweetener. The flavor will shift slightly but will still result in a deliciously glazed outcome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing **Delicious Char Siu Chicken**, it’s essential to avoid under-marinating the chicken. Insufficient marination time will yield less flavor. Making sure your chicken is coated thoroughly and sits in the marinade for enough time is critical.

Another common pitfall is overcrowding the baking tray. Too much chicken in one layer can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing caramelization. Ensure ample space for air to circulate around each piece.

Lastly, while it’s tempting to skip the resting time after cooking, this step is vital. Resting allows the juices to be reabsorbed into the meat, leading to a juicier, more flavorful dish.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

To store your Delicious Char Siu Chicken, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

When reheating, it’s best to do so gently to maintain moisture. Use a microwave on a low setting, or reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you choose to reheat from frozen, it’s advisable to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast, though keep in mind that it may result in a slightly drier texture. To prevent this, consider marinating it for a longer duration or briefly brining it before marination to keep it moist during cooking.

What can I serve with Char Siu Chicken? Char Siu Chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a simple stir-fried vegetable medley. You can also use it as a filling in bao buns or lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

Is the marinade safe to use for basting? It’s crucial to ensure food safety. If you want to baste your chicken with the marinade, set aside a portion of the marinade before adding the raw chicken to it. Using marinade that has come into contact with raw meat can introduce harmful bacteria.

How do I know my chicken is cooked through? The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for it to be considered safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure that the juices run clear and there is no pink meat in the center.

Can I grill Char Siu Chicken? Absolutely! Grilling can add a delightful smoky flavor. Follow the same marination process and then grill over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked. This method enhances the caramelization and flavor of the chicken beautifully.

Conclusion: This Delicious Char Siu Chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its wonderful flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it caters perfectly to busy lifestyles and special occasions. Try it out, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!