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Char Siu Chicken – Sticky, Savory & Packed with Flavor!

This Char Siu Chicken is a mouthwatering twist on classic Chinese BBQ! Marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with hoisin, honey, soy, and five-spice, then roasted to perfection until caramelized and glossy. It’s bold, juicy, and incredibly easy to make at home. Serve it with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies for a restaurant-style meal that’s sure to impress!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 9 hours
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Chinese (Cantonese-inspired)
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Zip-top bag or container for marinating
  • Oven, grill, or stovetop grill pan
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar/maple syrup)
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
  • 1–2 drops red food coloring (optional)
  • 1 tbsp oil (for grilling or pan-searing)

Instructions
 

  • Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together hoisin, soy sauce, honey, Shaoxing wine, garlic, five-spice, ginger, and food coloring if using.
  • Marinate: Place chicken in a zip-top bag or container. Pour marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for 8–24 hours.
  • Preheat Cooking Method:
    Oven: 400°F (200°C)
    Grill: Medium-high heat
    Stovetop grill pan: Medium heat
  • Cook Chicken:
    Oven: Roast on a lined baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
    Grill: Cook 5–7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
    Pan: Sear 5–6 minutes per side.
  • Baste: Brush with reserved marinade during cooking for a glossy finish.
  • Check Doneness: Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest & Slice: Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly for serving.

Notes

  • For crispier skin, use skin-on thighs or drumsticks and grill or roast uncovered.
  • Slice chicken before freezing for easy reheating.
  • Serve with jasmine rice, stir-fried veggies, or in banh mi, noodle bowls, or lettuce wraps.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth and cover to retain moisture.
  • Avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer for best results.
Keyword Char siu, chicken thighs, Chinese BBQ, grilled chicken, hoisin marinade, meal prep