Char Siu Chicken

A mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Chinese barbecue with tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory glaze.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 15

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 275

Chicken Ingredients

2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs Juicy and succulent; the perfect base for a flavorful marinade.

Marinade Ingredients

2 large cloves garlic Aromatic and pungent, bringing a fresh zest to the dish.
0.5 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder This vibrant blend infuses an exotic touch.
0.25 cup honey Preferably amber-colored, this natural sweetness adds depth.
0.25 cup hoisin sauce Rich and thick, it provides a unique umami flavor.
3 tablespoons soy sauce A salty counterpart that complements the sweetness.
2 tablespoons ketchup A touch of tanginess to round out the flavors.
4 teaspoons sesame oil This fragrant oil enhances the overall tasty experience.

Preparation

Pat the chicken thighs with paper towels to remove any excess moisture and trim any large fat pads.
Butterfly large or uneven chicken thighs for even cooking and cut into smaller pieces if desired.

Marinating

In a large bowl, stir together garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, and sesame oil until cohesive.
Reserve half of the marinade for glazing later.
Add chicken pieces to the bowl and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Cooking

Preheat a lightly oiled cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 6 to 10 minutes, turning to ensure even cooking.
Baste with reserved marinade during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Alternatively, grill outdoors for 10 to 12 minutes, basting during the last 3 minutes.
Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Marinate overnight for maximum flavor. Broil for a few minutes after cooking for a crispy outer layer.