Sweet & Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken: A Family Favorite Delight

This Sweet & Sticky Chinese BBQ Chicken, known as Char Siu, combines sweetness and savory richness, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Marination Time 4

Total Time 4 50

Servings: 4 pieces

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs for juiciness; breasts for leaner option.

For the Marinade

1/2 cup Hoisin Sauce Essential for that deep sweet and savory base.
1/4 cup Soy Sauce Provides saltiness and enhances umami flavor.
1/4 cup Oyster Sauce Strengthens the savory profile of the marinade.
2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) Adds complexity and sweetness.
1/4 cup Honey Key for achieving that sticky glaze.
1/4 cup Brown Sugar Balances flavors and enhances caramelization.
2 tablespoons Ketchup Introduces a tangy freshness.
1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder Infuses aromatic warmth.
1 teaspoon Sesame Oil Adds a delightful nutty aroma.
3 cloves Garlic Contributes savory depth.
1 tablespoon Ginger Offers a warm, aromatic bite.
1 teaspoon Red Food Coloring Optional for classic Char Siu appearance.

For Basting & Glaze

2 tablespoons Honey or Maltose Perfect for a glossy finish.
1/4 cup Warm Water Helps to thin out the honey.

Equipment

Oven
Grill
Baking sheet
wire rack
Mixing Bowl
Ziplock bag
Brush

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, five-spice powder, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a ziplock bag, pour marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Oven Roasting: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, place chicken on a wire rack, and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Baste and Broil: In the last 5 minutes, baste chicken with a mix of honey and warm water. Broil for 2-3 minutes to caramelize.
Grilling Option: Preheat grill to medium heat (375°F/190°C). Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with marinade.
Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, slice, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice or vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 755mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use quality ingredients for best flavor and allow chicken to rest before slicing.

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