Char Siu Chicken Thighs

Char Siu Chicken Thighs are a savory, sweet, and tender dish that takes traditional Chinese flavors to the next level. Marinated chicken thighs, glazed with a rich sauce, are baked to perfection, creating a mouthwatering meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe brings bold, delicious flavors right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The combination of honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Chinese Five Spice powder creates a rich marinade that makes the chicken thighs irresistibly tender and flavorful. Baking the chicken results in a slightly caramelized exterior that adds even more depth to the taste. Plus, this dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Char Siu Chicken Thighs are sure to impress.

Ingredients

Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce or Kecap Manis

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 cloves garlic, pureed or grated

• 1-inch ginger, pureed or grated

• 1 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice powder

• Pinch of white pepper

• 1 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)

Main:

• 300 grams chicken thighs, fatty cuts preferred

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl or zipper bag, whisk together honey, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce or Kecap Manis, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, Chinese Five Spice powder, white pepper, and red food coloring (if using). Stir until fully combined.

2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover or seal the bowl or bag and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, ideally overnight for deeper flavor.

3. Once marinated, remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to take the chill off.

4. Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).

5. Arrange the chicken thighs on a lined baking tray, leaving space between each piece. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.

6. After baking, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Char Siu Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade to bring some heat to the dish.

• Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based alternative, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.

• Grilled Version: Instead of baking, you can grill the marinated chicken thighs for a smoky flavor. Simply preheat your grill and cook the thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Char Siu Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a microwave for 2-3 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain the crispiness of the glaze.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

While chicken breast can be used, it may not be as tender or juicy as chicken thighs. Thighs are fattier and better suited for this recipe.

2. Is the red food coloring necessary?

No, the red food coloring is optional. It gives the chicken a vibrant, traditional Char Siu color but does not affect the flavor.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally, marinate overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor depth.

4. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

5. What if I don’t have dark soy sauce or Kecap Manis?

If you can’t find dark soy sauce or Kecap Manis, you can substitute with regular soy sauce and add a little more sugar to replicate the sweetness and richness.

6. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but they may cook faster than bone-in thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

8. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes per side until fully cooked, but it won’t have the same caramelized finish as baking.

9. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

10. Can I adjust the sweetness of the marinade?

Yes, feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar or honey to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Char Siu Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that captures the essence of Chinese barbecue. With a combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe delivers perfectly cooked chicken every time. Whether you follow the traditional baking method or switch things up with grilling or spicing it up, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy this delicious, tender meal with your loved ones!