Description

Sticky, savory, and packed with bold flavors, this baked Char Siu Chicken recipe delivers delicious Chinese BBQ-style chicken with minimal effort. Using boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of hoisin, soy, oyster sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice, this recipe offers a perfect weeknight dinner that replicates takeout favorites without the need for grilling or extensive cooking time.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon avocado oil

Marinade

3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon red food coloring (optional for authentic red color)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, brown sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, minced garlic, and optional red food coloring until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Line a baking tray with foil and lightly oil it with avocado oil. Arrange the chicken thighs on the tray and brush both sides generously with the marinade. Cover the tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through and brushing them with any leftover marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
Optional Broil for Caramelization: For a beautifully caramelized finish, broil the chicken for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished if desired for an authentic presentation.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the spices and sauces to fully penetrate the meat.
Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results compared to chicken breasts.
If you prefer a spicier note, add a dash of chili oil or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Red food coloring is optional but traditional for authentic-looking char siu.
Leftover char siu chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.