Authentic Chinese Chicken: Sweet & Savory BBQ Recipe

The aroma of Chinese Chicken wafting from Chinese barbecue shops is unmistakable. While traditionally made with pork, this chicken version of char siu captures the same magnificent sweet-savory glaze and complex flavors that make Chinese BBQ irresistible. Our recipe brings the authentic taste of char siu chicken to your kitchen, with a perfectly balanced marinade specially adapted for poultry.

What Makes Char Siu Chicken Special

Traditional Chinese Chicken combines the best elements of Chinese barbecue with tender, juicy chicken. The marinade has been carefully crafted to create that signature glossy finish while ensuring the chicken remains succulent. Unlike its pork counterpart, this BBQ char siu chicken recipe features a slightly less sweet marinade that perfectly complements the natural flavors of the meat.

The magic of char siu chicken lies in its aromatic marinade, featuring the perfect balance of traditional Chinese ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that authentic BBQ char siu flavor profile that’s instantly recognizable. The Chinese five-spice powder adds an aromatic dimension that’s quintessentially char siu, though the recipe remains delicious even without it.

Essential Ingredients for Chinese Chicken

For the signature char siu marinade:

• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• Optional: a few drops of red food coloring

For the chicken:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thigh fillets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Optional: bamboo skewers
• Garnish: sliced green onions

Preparing Your Char Siu Chicken

Creating restaurant-quality Chinese Chicken starts with proper preparation. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisking until you achieve a consistency thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This ensures the marinade will adhere to the chicken and develop that coveted char siu glaze during cooking.

Choose chicken thighs for the best results – their higher fat content keeps the meat juicy throughout the cooking process. While you can use chicken breast, thighs will give you that authentic char siu texture and flavor. Thoroughly coat the chicken pieces in marinade and refrigerate for 3-24 hours, allowing the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Cooking Methods for Perfect BBQ Char Siu Chicken

Each cooking method offers unique advantages for preparing char siu chicken:

Stovetop BBQ Method (Recommended):
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, regularly basting with reserved marinade. This method provides excellent control over the caramelization process, creating that perfect char siu glaze.

Traditional BBQ Method:
For authentic char siu flavor, grill over moderate heat. The sugar content in char siu marinade requires careful attention to prevent burning. Keep the chicken moving to ensure even cooking and optimal caramelization.

Oven Method:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, basting halfway through. While convenient, this method won’t achieve the same level of caramelization as BBQ or stovetop cooking.

Customizing Your Char Siu Chicken

Make this Chinese Chicken recipe your own by adding grated ginger or chili to the marinade. The traditional red coloring is optional – it provides that classic char siu appearance but doesn’t affect the flavor. For presentation, consider threading the chicken onto pre-soaked skewers before cooking.

Serving Your BBQ Char Siu Chicken

After cooking, rest your char siu chicken for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions and serve with steamed rice and Asian greens. The versatility of BBQ char siu chicken extends beyond traditional serving suggestions – use it in rice bowls, noodle dishes, or sandwiches.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as char siu chicken maintains its flavor and juiciness when reheated. Double the recipe to enjoy this Chinese BBQ favorite throughout the week. The key to perfect char siu chicken lies in proper marination and careful attention during cooking to achieve that ideal balance of caramelization and tenderness.

Whether you’re exploring Chinese cuisine or seeking to recreate your favorite BBQ char siu chicken at home, this recipe delivers authentic flavors with accessible ingredients and techniques. The combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements creates a dish that’s both impressive and irresistibly delicious.