Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe

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There is something truly irresistible about the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of the Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe that makes it an absolute favorite in any kitchen. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs generously coated with a vibrant marinade bursting with honey, soy sauces, aromatic spices, and a hint of garlic and ginger. It’s a sensational roast that carries all the beloved qualities of classic Chinese BBQ in every bite, perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients that each play a vital role in building its unforgettable flavor and gorgeous color. From the sweetness of honey to the depth of oyster and soy sauces, every item enhances the dish in its own special way.

• Chicken thighs 300g: Skin-on and bone-in or boneless works best for juicy, tender meat that soaks up marinade.
• Honey 1 tbsp: Adds a natural sweetness and helps create the sticky glaze on the chicken’s surface.
• Light soy sauce 1 tbsp: Provides the essential salty umami base to the marinade.
• Oyster sauce 1 tbsp: Brings a rich, slightly sweet, and earthy dimension to the flavor profile.
• Dark soy sauce or kecap manis 1 tbsp: Adds deep color and a touch of molasses-like sweetness.
• Brown sugar 2 tbsp: Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully during roasting.
• Garlic 2 cloves, pureed or grated: Infuses the chicken with gentle pungency and warmth.
• Ginger 1-inch piece, pureed or grated: Gives an aromatic zing that lifts the marinade.
• Chinese five-spice powder 1 tsp: The iconic spice blend that evokes traditional Char Siu flavor notes.
• White pepper pinch: Adds subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
• Red food coloring 1 tsp (optional): For that classic bright red appearance beloved in Char Siu dishes.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

Start by combining honey, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, Chinese five-spice powder, white pepper, and red food coloring (if using) in a bowl. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture forms a glossy, fragrant sauce. This marinade is the heart of your Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe, packing all those luscious sweet and savory notes.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring every piece is well covered. Cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to soak up all those beautiful flavors for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, an overnight soak lets the taste truly deepen and become unforgettable.

Step 3: Preheating the Oven

When ready to roast, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and placing a wire rack on top—this little step allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, encouraging even cooking and gorgeous caramelization all around.

Step 4: Arranging the Chicken

Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and place them carefully on the wire rack. Don’t toss out the leftover marinade just yet—you’ll be using it to make an irresistibly sticky glaze that finishes the dish perfectly.

Step 5: Roasting Begins

Pop the chicken into the preheated oven and roast it for 20 minutes. This is where the magic starts, as the marinade starts to caramelize and the chicken begins turning that gorgeous golden-red hue you crave in a Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe.

Step 6: Making the Glaze

While the chicken roasts, take the reserved marinade and simmer it gently in a small saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes. This step thickens the marinade into a luscious glaze that will help create that mouthwatering shiny, sticky finish.

Step 7: Basting and Finishing the Roast

After the initial 20 minutes of roasting, remove the chicken briefly and brush it generously with the thickened glaze. Flip the thighs over and repeat the process on the other side. Return the chicken to the oven and roast for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and slightly charred at the edges for that signature bite.

Step 8: Resting and Serving

When the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Now your Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add a pop of freshness, sprinkle chopped spring onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. These simple garnishes beautifully complement the rich flavors while adding a touch of crunch. A few thin slices of fresh cucumber on the side can also provide a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

The rustic, sweet, and savory profile of this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice to soak up every bit of the glaze. For a noodle lover’s dream, toss it with stir-fried noodles and vegetables for a wholesome meal. Light pickled vegetables add balance and a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Use your sliced Char Siu chicken to create bao buns or wrap it in lettuce leaves with a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a fun and interactive meal. It also shines as a filling for rice paper rolls alongside crisp herbs and vermicelli. No matter how you serve it, this recipe always dazzles on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe, they keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken stays tender and flavorful, making it a perfect next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

Leftover char siu chicken can also be frozen for longer storage. Slice it first and place the pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its delicious flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or bake in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slower reheating preserves the glaze’s sticky texture and keeps the meat juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but chicken thighs are preferred for their higher fat content, which keeps the meat juicy and tender during the roasting process. Chicken breasts might dry out more quickly if not watched carefully.

What can I substitute for Chinese five-spice powder?

If you don’t have Chinese five-spice powder, try blending equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns. This homemade mix captures the essential flavors and works well in the marinade.

Is red food coloring necessary for the recipe?

The red food coloring is optional and mainly used for visual effect to achieve the classic Char Siu appearance. It doesn’t affect the flavor, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a more natural look.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

Marinating for at least 2 hours is essential to infuse flavor, but ideally, an overnight marination allows the chicken to soak up every delicious note, resulting in a more intense and well-rounded taste.

Can I grill the Char Siu Chicken instead of roasting it?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the sweet and savory marinade beautifully. Just be sure to baste frequently with the glaze to avoid burning and keep the chicken moist.

Final Thoughts

This Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and comforting aroma make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!

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