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Char Siu Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 126 reviews

This Char Siu Chicken recipe offers a flavorful twist on the traditional Chinese BBQ pork by using tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a savory-sweet sauce rich with hoisin, soy, honey, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Perfectly cooked and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is an easy-to-make, juicy, and aromatic meal option for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five-spice powder, and vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thigh pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice caramelized glaze, turning occasionally to avoid burning. You can also choose to cook under a broiler or grill for added char if desired.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added fresh crunch and nutty flavor. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • Ensure the pan is hot before adding chicken to achieve a good caramelization.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.