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Char Siu Chicken Glazed Oven

Section: Fast, Flavorful Recipes for Busy Days

Char siu chicken features boneless thighs marinated in a luscious blend of hoisin, soy, honey, and five-spice, then roasted and broiled until caramelized and slightly charred. The marinade brings together sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors for a delicious balance, perfect for serving over steamed rice or with stir-fried greens. For best results, allow ample marinating time and monitor closely during broiling. Serve warm, sliced, and brushed with extra glaze for a truly mouthwatering meal.

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A woman cooking in a kitchen.
Created By Sarah Lynn
Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 03:17:38 GMT
A plate of char siu chicken with a dipping sauce. Highlight
A plate of char siu chicken with a dipping sauce. | satisfymeals.com

Char siu chicken brings together juicy chicken thighs with a glossy, sticky glaze made from pantry staples like hoisin and soy sauce plus a gentle kick of Chinese five spice. This is my go-to recipe when I want to wow friends and family with bold flavor and restaurant-quality results but no complicated steps.

I discovered char siu chicken after missing takeout one winter night. Now, we crave this homemade version for its savory-sweet crust and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Gather Your Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs: Provide the juiciest texture and are budget-friendly
  • Hoisin sauce: Brings bold umami and a shine to the marinade
  • Soy sauce: Enhances saltiness and depth (select low sodium to control salt)
  • Honey: Caramelizes in the oven for that signature stickiness (choose a floral variety for extra aroma)
  • Oyster sauce: Adds another layer of savory flavor
  • Rice vinegar: Brightens the marinade with gentle acidity
  • Fresh garlic: Powers up the aroma and overall taste
  • Chinese five-spice powder: Creates an authentic signature flavor (look for a blend with real cinnamon and star anise)
  • Sesame oil: Provides nutty undertones (just a splash goes a long way)

How to Make It

Marinate the Chicken:
Mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, five-spice powder, and sesame oil in a bowl until well blended. Pour half of this over the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag. Toss so every piece gets coated thoroughly. Keep the rest of the marinade chilled separately. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 2 hours and up to overnight. The longer the better for flavor.
Bring the Chicken to Room Temperature:
Take the chicken out of the fridge and leave it on the counter for about 30 minutes. This promotes even cooking and juicier meat.
Prepare for Baking:
Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces spaced apart on the sheet.
Bake Until Juicy:
Bake the chicken for roughly 25 to 30 minutes until completely cooked and deeply colored. Turn the pieces halfway through to encourage even browning.
Thicken the Marinade:
Pour the reserved unused marinade into a saucepan. Bring it to a boil then simmer for about 10 minutes to create a thickened glaze.
Glaze and Broil:
Brush the thick sticky glaze all over the hot cooked chicken. Switch your oven to broil and set the sheet on the top rack. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken develops a caramelized lacquered look and slight char. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing. Serve warm for maximum flavor.
A plate of char siu chicken.
A plate of char siu chicken. | satisfymeals.com

The honey in this recipe will caramelize and develop a depth that reminds me of weekend family dinners growing up. Whenever I make this, my kitchen fills with a sweet savory aroma instantly transporting me back to those happy gatherings.

Flavor Boosters

For extra heat, add chili paste or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Swapping in maple syrup for honey gives a gentle twist, and fire up the grill in summer to intensify smoky notes.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is delicious over steamed jasmine rice or tucked into bao buns with cucumber and scallion. To lighten it up, slice over a crisp veggie salad with extra glaze. Pair with stir-fried broccoli or garlicky green beans for balance.

Creative Twists

Try using chicken breast instead of thighs and watch the cooking time closely, or double the marinade to keep extra for drizzling as a sauce. Use gluten-free hoisin and tamari for dietary preferences without losing classic flavor.

A plate of Char Siu Chicken.
A plate of Char Siu Chicken. | satisfymeals.com

Char siu chicken’s sweet and savory aroma makes any dinner feel celebratory. Put your own spin on this classic at home—it is sure to become a family favorite.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What cut of chicken works best for char siu?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their juiciness and flavor, but breasts can be used as well.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 2 hours for flavor, but overnight yields the best depth and tenderness.

→ Can I add extra spice to the marinade?

Absolutely! Add chili paste or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick according to your taste.

→ What should I serve alongside char siu chicken?

Steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables complement the savory-sweet glaze beautifully.

→ How do I achieve a caramelized finish?

Broil the chicken briefly after baking and brush with the thickened glaze for a charred, shiny coating.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for easy reheating.

Char Siu Chicken Glazed Oven

Tender char siu chicken glazed in honey, soy, and five-spice with caramelized, flavorful bites.

Preparation Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
25 minutes
Overall Time
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah Lynn

Type of Recipe: Quick & Easy Meals

Level of Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty

Cuisine Category: Chinese

Makes: 4 Portions (4 main course portions)

Dietary Options: Dairy-Free Option

Ingredients List

→ Meat

Ingredient 01 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

→ Marinade

Ingredient 02 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
Ingredient 03 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Ingredient 04 2 tablespoons honey
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
Ingredient 06 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Ingredient 07 2 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
Ingredient 09 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 02

In a bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, and sesame oil.

Step 03

Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Reserve the remaining marinade covered in the refrigerator.

Step 04

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 05

Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 06

While the chicken is cooking, transfer the reserved marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.

Step 07

Brush cooked chicken with the thickened marinade. Broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized and lightly charred, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 08

Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Extra Information

  1. For deeper flavor, marinate chicken for up to 24 hours.
  2. Adjust marinade with chili paste or red pepper flakes for added heat.
  3. Broil with attention as sugar content may cause quick browning.
  4. Serve over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
  5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Essential Tools

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Resealable plastic bag
  • Small saucepan
  • Pastry brush

Allergen Details

Always verify the ingredients for potential allergens and consult your doctor if needed.
  • Contains soy, wheat (from soy sauce, hoisin, and oyster sauce), and shellfish (from oyster sauce).

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

This info should only be used for general guidance and isn’t meant to replace professional medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 250
  • Fat Content: ~
  • Carbohydrate Content: ~
  • Protein Content: ~