Sticky, sweet, and packed with flavor, this char siu chicken is marinated in a rich Cantonese-style sauce and oven-roasted or grilled to caramelized perfection.
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
¼ cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1–2 drops red food coloring (optional)
Green onions or cilantro, for garnish
Whisk all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
Pour over chicken in a resealable bag or dish. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet and place a rack on top.
Arrange chicken on rack, reserving extra marinade. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Brush with marinade during roasting. Broil for final 2–3 minutes for char.
Rest, slice, and serve with rice or vegetables.
Grill instead of roast for smoky flavor
Use chicken breasts, adjusting cook time
Store leftovers for 3–4 days in fridge