Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, oyster sauce, brown sugar, Chinese five spice powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve the characteristic char siu color.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more profound flavor.
Step 2: Roast the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup, and place a rack over the baking sheet.
- Arrange the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place it on the rack. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, cooking it evenly.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
Step 3: Baste and Broil
- Baste the Chicken: Halfway through roasting, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to enhance the flavor and help achieve a glaze.
- Broil for Finish: For the last 5 minutes, switch your oven to broil to get a more caramelized, charred exterior. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve
- Rest and Slice: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Slice into pieces.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Serve your Char Siu Chicken with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is recommended for the best results.
- Side Dishes: Serve with jasmine rice, bok choy, or a simple cucumber salad to complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: This recipe can also be adapted for grilling. Grill over medium heat, turning and basting frequently until cooked through.
Char Siu Chicken offers a fantastic flavor profile that’s both unique and satisfying, making it a great dish to add to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!