How to Make Char Siu Chicken (Authentic & Flavorful Recipe

Introduction
If you love bold, sweet-savory flavors with a hint of smokiness, you’re in for a treat! Char Siu Chicken is a delicious Cantonese dish inspired by traditional Chinese BBQ pork (Char Siu). This version is made with juicy chicken thighs or breasts, marinated in a rich, flavorful sauce, and roasted to perfection. It’s easy to make at home and perfect for meal prep, rice bowls, or a show-stopping dinner.

In this post, I’ll walk you through an authentic Char Siu Chicken recipe, including tips on achieving that signature caramelized glaze, plus variations for air fryer and grill cooking.

What Is Char Siu Chicken?

Char Siu (叉烧) means “fork roasted” in Cantonese, referring to how the meat is traditionally cooked over an open flame. While Char Siu is commonly made with pork, this chicken version is just as flavorful and easier to prepare. The key to its signature taste lies in the marinade—a combination of honey, soy sauce, hoisin, Chinese five-spice, and Shaoxing wine.
The result? Juicy, tender chicken with a sticky, slightly charred glaze that’s packed with umami goodness!

Ingredients for Char Siu Chicken

To make authentic Char Siu Chicken, you’ll need:

For the Marinade:

✔ 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)

✔ 2 tbsp hoisin sauce

✔ 2 tbsp soy sauce

✔ 1 tbsp oyster sauce

✔ 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)

✔ 1 tbsp honey

✔ 1 tbsp brown sugar

✔ 1 tsp five-spice powder

✔ 1 tsp sesame oil

✔ 2 cloves garlic (minced)

✔ ½ tsp red food coloring (optional, for classic color)

For the Glaze:

✔ 1 tbsp honey (for brushing)

✔ 1 tbsp reserved marinade

How to Make Char Siu Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps air circulate around the chicken for even cooking.

3. Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the rack and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Add the Glaze

Mix honey with a little reserved marinade and brush it onto the chicken. Broil for 2-3 minutes to create a caramelized, slightly charred effect.

5. Rest & Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Alternative Cooking Methods
Air Fryer Char Siu Chicken

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

• Cook the marinated chicken for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Brush with honey glaze and air fry for an extra 2 minutes for caramelization.

Grilled Char Siu Chicken

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

• Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, brushing with extra glaze in the last few minutes.

Tips for the Best Char Siu Chicken

✔ Use chicken thighs for juicier results, but breasts work too.

✔ Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.

✔ Broil or grill at the end to get that signature charred look.

✔ Skip the food coloring if you prefer a natural look.

What to Serve with Char Siu Chicken

Pair this dish with:

• Steamed jasmine rice

• Garlic stir-fried bok choy

• Sesame cucumber salad

• Fried rice or lo mein

FAQs

Can I make Char Siu Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight or freeze it in the marinade for up to a month.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Yes! Substitute Shaoxing wine with apple juice or chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Making Char Siu Chicken at home is easier than you think! With the right marinade and cooking technique, you’ll get restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen. Whether roasted, grilled, or air-fried, this dish is sure to impress.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments!