This Char Siu Chicken is a vibrant twist on the traditional Chinese barbecue pork, bringing the same bold sweet-savory glaze to juicy chicken. With aromatic ingredients like hoisin, garlic, honey, and Chinese five-spice, this dish delivers rich flavor and gorgeous caramelization whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests and pairs beautifully with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or dry sherry

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Sliced green onions, for garnish

• Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice wine, sesame oil, garlic, five-spice powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish. Pour in the marinade and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

3. Choose a Cooking Method:

Grill:

• Preheat grill to medium-high.

• Cook chicken 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.

Bake:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Place chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes. Baste with marinade halfway through.

Pan-Sear:

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

• Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked.

4. Rest & Garnish:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrients (Estimated per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: ~280 kcal

• Protein: ~25g

• Fat: ~10g

• Carbohydrates: ~20g

• Sugars: ~12g

• Sodium: Moderate (based on soy sauce & hoisin content)

The History and Essence of Char Siu

Char Siu literally means “fork roasted” in Cantonese, a nod to the traditional method of roasting skewered strips of seasoned pork over an open fire or in a vertical rotisserie. The dish has deep roots in Cantonese cuisine and is easily recognizable by its sweet-savory flavor profile and glistening red-tinted exterior. While pork is the classic choice, the iconic marinade is what truly defines Char Siu.

This chicken version captures the essence of Char Siu in a more accessible form. Chicken absorbs the marinade quickly, cooks faster, and can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared to a delicious finish. It also appeals to a wider audience, including those looking for leaner protein options or avoiding red meat. Though it departs from tradition in protein choice, it stays faithful to the flavor that makes Char Siu so beloved.

The Magic of the Marinade

The heart of this dish lies in its irresistible marinade—a rich blend of sweet, salty, aromatic, and umami flavors. Hoisin sauce provides the base, offering a deeply savory note with hints of fermented soy, sweet plum, and spices. Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth, while honey gives the glaze its signature shine and sweetness. Chinese rice wine or dry sherry introduces a mild acidity and complexity that balances the bold components.

Then there are the aromatics: fresh garlic and ginger bring sharp, spicy warmth, while Chinese five-spice powder offers the signature fragrance of anise, cinnamon, fennel, cloves, and Szechuan peppercorns. This blend is key to the dish’s traditional flavor and aroma, creating a bold fragrance that intensifies as the chicken cooks. The sesame oil rounds it all out with a toasty, nutty undertone that enhances every bite.

Flexible Cooking Methods for Any Kitchen

One of the best things about Char Siu Chicken is its adaptability to various cooking methods. Whether you’re firing up the grill, baking in the oven, or searing on the stovetop, the marinade works beautifully to produce a sticky, glossy coating and juicy, flavorful meat.

Grilling adds a smoky, slightly charred edge that elevates the flavor and creates authentic barbecue vibes. Baking is convenient and efficient, especially when cooking for a group. Pan-searing, meanwhile, is perfect for weeknight meals—quick and mess-free with delicious caramelized results. No matter the method, the chicken takes on a deep mahogany hue and a slightly crisp exterior while remaining moist inside.

The versatility also extends to the choice of chicken. While the recipe works wonderfully with boneless, skinless breasts, thighs are particularly juicy and forgiving. Bone-in cuts can be used too, though they may require a longer cooking time. The marinade is equally effective across all cuts, ensuring maximum flavor.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Char Siu Chicken is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides takes it to the next level. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic choice, absorbing the extra marinade and balancing the boldness of the glaze. For a more robust meal, fried rice or coconut rice adds additional texture and flavor.

Noodles are another popular partner—especially stir-fried egg noodles or lo mein tossed with garlic, soy, and a few vegetables. Speaking of vegetables, stir-fried bok choy, snow peas, or broccoli make excellent sides that contrast the rich, sweet chicken with freshness and crunch.

For an elegant presentation, slice the chicken thinly and fan it out over rice, garnishing with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can add heat for those who love a spicier kick. This dish also works beautifully in Asian-inspired wraps or lettuce cups for lighter, low-carb options.

Meal Prep Friendly and Leftover Gold

Char Siu Chicken is a meal-prepper’s dream. The chicken can be marinated overnight and cooked fresh when needed, or cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days. The bold flavors actually deepen and improve after resting, making leftovers just as enjoyable.

Use leftover slices in wraps, grain bowls, noodle salads, or even sandwiches with a slather of spicy mayo and crunchy slaw. It also makes a fantastic protein for bento boxes or lunch meal prep kits. Simply reheat gently or enjoy cold—the flavor holds up beautifully in both cases.

The marinade can also double as a dipping sauce if reduced slightly on the stove until thickened. Brush it on grilled vegetables or tofu for an extra punch of flavor in plant-based meals.

Nutritious and Satisfying

In addition to its irresistible flavor, Char Siu Chicken is a well-balanced, protein-rich dish that fits into many dietary lifestyles. Each serving contains around 280 calories and 25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying option for anyone focused on nutrition and portion control.

Because it’s made with lean chicken and relatively modest amounts of oil and sugar, it feels indulgent without being overly heavy. The inclusion of garlic, ginger, and spices also adds anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, while sesame seeds provide a dose of healthy fats and minerals.

For those following gluten-free or low-sodium diets, simple swaps like tamari in place of soy sauce or reduced-sodium hoisin can easily tailor the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Char Siu Chicken is the ultimate fusion of tradition and convenience—rich in flavor, stunning in appearance, and endlessly adaptable to your kitchen and taste. Inspired by the iconic Chinese barbecue style, this dish captures the essence of Char Siu with a simplified, home-cook-friendly approach that delivers on every level. With its glossy glaze, tender meat, and aromatic depth, it’s a dish that elevates any dinner table, whether you’re serving family on a busy weeknight or guests at a festive gathering.

It’s also incredibly practical: easy to prep, quick to cook, and delicious hot or cold. From rice bowls to noodle platters to creative leftovers, Char Siu Chicken offers endless possibilities. Once you’ve experienced how flavorful and simple it is to make, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation—bringing the rich tradition of Chinese barbecue into your home with ease and excitement.