Sweet & Savory Char Siu Chicken: An Easy Weeknight Meal!

Sweet & Savory Char Siu Chicken: An Easy Weeknight Meal! 🍗🍯✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a delicious and flavorful dinner that’s quick to prepare, look no further than this Char Siu Chicken recipe. Combining the sweet and savory taste of traditional Chinese-style chicken, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With its sticky glaze and tender meat, this Char Siu Chicken recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re new to Chinese cuisine or a seasoned culinary enthusiast, this approachable recipe delivers authentic flavors with minimal effort.

2. Ingredients for Sweet & Savory Char Siu Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese Five-Spice powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Char Siu Chicken

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and Chinese Five-Spice powder. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the meat. Ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.

Cook the Char Siu Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 20-25 minutes, basting with additional marinade every 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.

Optional: Grill for Extra Flavor

For a smoky taste, transfer the marinated chicken to a preheated grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes per side until charred slightly and cooked thoroughly.

Rest and Slice

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Char Siu Chicken

Store any leftover Chinese-Style Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it moist, reheat gently in the oven or microwave. You can also slice and freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, making future meals quick and easy.

5. Serving Suggestions for Sweet and Savory Chicken

This Char Siu Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Asian-inspired salad like the gorgeous peach spinach salad. For an added crunch, serve with crispy fried scallions or pickled vegetables.

6. FAQ About Char Siu Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, especially when baked or grilled. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What are good substitutions for oyster sauce? If you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have oyster sauce, substitute with additional soy sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce available at most stores.

How long does it take to prepare this dish? Including marinating, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish. Actual cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Perfect for quick chilling of beverages to refresh after your cooking session, ensuring your drinks stay cold and delicious.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Makes chopping garlic, ginger, and vegetables fast and easy, saving prep time for your Char Siu Chicken!
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — A reliable cookware set that ensures even heating for baking and roasting your Chinese-style chicken.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — Great for crispy leftovers or quick air frying if you prefer a healthier cooking option.

8. Additional Tips and Inspiration

Feel free to customize the marinade with additional spices like five-spice powder or chili flakes for a spicy kick. For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Serve alongside creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta or light lemon ricotta pasta for a complete, diverse dinner experience.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors in this Char Siu Chicken recipe — perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking process, it turns an everyday meal into a flavorful feast. Incorporate this Oriental-inspired dish into your repertoire today and savor the taste of authentic Chinese-style chicken in your own home!

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