Char Siu Chicken

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for traditional red color)
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade:
    In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, brown sugar, five-spice powder, sesame oil, garlic, and food coloring (if using). Stir until well mixed.
  2. Marinate the chicken:
    Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C):
    Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack.
  4. Bake the chicken:
    Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve excess marinade). Place the chicken on the rack and bake for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
  5. Baste and broil:
    While baking, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade every 10 minutes. For a caramelized finish, broil on high for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Rest and serve:
    Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Would you like a quick version for air fryer or grill too?

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