Description
Unlock the secrets to perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful Chinese BBQ chicken at home, enveloped in a glossy, sweet-and-savory glaze. This recipe brings authentic Char Siu Chicken to your kitchen with ease.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or Tamari for GF)
- 1 tbsp sugar (white or brown)
- 1 tbsp red fermented bean curd (optional, for color and depth)
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
- For serving: Steamed rice, bok choy, sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry, trim fat, and lightly score thicker pieces. Place in a non-reactive bowl or bag.
- Mix Marinade: Whisk together honey, hoisin, soy sauce, sugar, bean curd (if using), ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder until smooth.
- Marinate: Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Reserve 1/4 cup of marinade for basting. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight (8-12 hours).
- Bake Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a greased wire rack on top. Arrange chicken on the rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze and Broil: While chicken bakes, boil reserved 1/4 cup marinade in a saucepan for 2-3 minutes to reduce. Switch oven to broiler. Brush chicken with glaze, broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Flip, brush, and broil again. Repeat 1-2 more times for desired glaze.
- Rest & Serve: Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve with your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30-35 mins