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The Best Char Siu Chicken Roast

Tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in classic char siu sauce, roasted to a glossy, caramelized perfection.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Chicken & Marinade
  • 4 chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tsp red food coloring optional
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • to taste sesame seeds for garnish
  • to taste green onions sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, five-spice, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red food coloring, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
  2. Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over, coating fully. Marinate at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with foil and place wire rack on top.
  4. Arrange chicken on wire rack, brush with marinade. Roast 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway and basting.
  5. Switch oven to broil for last 2–3 minutes to caramelize glaze, watch carefully.
  6. Remove chicken, let rest 5 minutes. Slice and drizzle with pan juices.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

Optional: Adjust sweetness or spiciness in marinade to taste.