Name: Glazed Char Siu Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.1 –1.3 lb chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces or strips); 2 –3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 –3 tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 –3 tbsp honey or brown sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 –2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional); ½ tsp Chinese five-spice powder (optional); Sesame seeds (for garnish); Sliced green onions (for garnish)

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Experience the irresistible flavors of classic Chinese barbecue with this tender and juicy Glazed Char Siu Chicken. The chicken is perfectly coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that will have your taste buds dancing with every bite.

This dish brings together the rich notes of hoisin and soy, balanced by the brightness of vinegar and the warmth of five-spice powder, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or your favorite noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The glaze is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, inspired by traditional Chinese barbecue.
Tender chicken pieces marinated for maximum flavor and cooked to juicy perfection.
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients found in most kitchens and Asian markets.
Versatile to serve over rice, noodles, or alongside veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or breasts (500–600 g): Bite-sized pieces chosen for juiciness and tenderness to soak up the marinade.
Soy sauce (2–3 tbsp): Adds umami richness and saltiness that forms the base of the marinade.
Hoisin sauce (2–3 tbsp): Contributes sweet and tangy depth with a subtle fermented character.
Honey or brown sugar (2–3 tbsp): Provides sticky sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp): Brightens and balances the glaze with gentle acidity.
Sesame oil (1 tsp): A fragrant nutty oil that enhances the authentic Asian flavor profile.
Garlic cloves, minced (1–2 cloves): Fresh, pungent garlic adds aromatic depth and spice.
Fresh ginger, grated (1 tsp, optional): Adds warm, zesty brightness that complements the garlic.
Chinese five-spice powder (½ tsp, optional): Offers subtle hints of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves for traditional flavor notes.
Sesame seeds: Toasted seeds add crunch and nutty garnish finish.
Sliced green onions: Fresh, crisp garnish to add color and a light oniony bite.

Instructions

Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey (or brown sugar), vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder if using. This combination creates a balanced glaze that is both sweet and savory with nuanced layers of flavor.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 20–30 minutes, or longer in the fridge for deeper flavor infusion. Marinating tenderizes the chicken and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, placing them evenly without overcrowding, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Reserving the marinade allows you to use it to make the luscious glaze.
Add the Glaze: Pour the reserved marinade into the pan and simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens and becomes glossy. This step creates a sticky coating that clings to the chicken, imparting intense flavor and beautiful shine.
Serve: Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving plate and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

You Must Know

Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying honey or brown sugar amounts.
Add chili flakes or sriracha if you want to introduce some heat and spice to the dish.
For a smoky char effect, finish the cooked chicken under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
This dish pairs beautifully with crunchy Asian-style slaws or stir-fried greens to balance the richness.

Storage Tips

Store leftover glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave stirring occasionally to preserve the sticky glaze and moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Glazed Char Siu Chicken over steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add a side of sautéed bok choy, snap peas, or an Asian cucumber salad for freshness and crunch.

Professional Tips

Use skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest meat and best texture with this glaze.
Allow the chicken to marinate overnight in the refrigerator for maximum depth of flavor.
Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before garnishing for enhanced aroma.
Make extra marinade to use as a dipping sauce or to drizzle on rice or veggies.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?: Yes, chicken breasts work well but can be less juicy. Marinate longer and don’t overcook to keep them tender.
Is hoisin sauce necessary?: Hoisin sauce adds signature sweetness and depth. You can substitute with a mix of soy sauce and honey if unavailable, but flavor will differ.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?: Use gluten-free soy sauce and check hoisin sauce labels for gluten content. Many brands offer gluten-free versions.
How long can I marinate the chicken?: Marinate for at least 20 minutes up to overnight in the fridge. Longer marinating enhances flavor but avoid over 24 hours.
Can I bake instead of pan-fry?: Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, basting periodically with marinade for a similar result.
What sides pair best with Char Siu Chicken?: Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, stir-fried greens, or Asian-style slaws complement this dish excellently.
How do I thicken the glaze if too thin?: Simmer the reserved marinade longer in the pan to reduce and thicken naturally. Adding a small cornstarch slurry can help if needed.