Name: Mouthwatering Char Siu Chicken Roast in Just 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 300 grams Chicken Thigh (Juicy boneless thighs provide the best flavor and tenderness.); 1 tbsp Honey (Adds a warm sweetness; maple syrup can be a delightful swap.); 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce (Provides that savory umami kick; low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier choice.); 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce (Infuses the dish with rich depth; opt for mushroom stir-fry sauce for a vegetarian alternative.); 1 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce (Enhances the color and adds more sweetness; using molasses gives a unique twist.); 2 tbsps Brown Sugar (Promotes caramelization and depth; if you're out, white sugar works in a pinch.); 2 cloves Garlic, pureed or grated (For a robust aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if necessary.); 1 inch Ginger, pureed or grated (Adds freshness; ginger powder can work as a milder substitute.); 1 tsp Chinese Five Spice powder (Offers a complex flavor; homemade blends give you personalized flair.); 1 pinch White Pepper (Adds a gentle warmth; feel free to use black pepper for a different profile.); 1 tsp Red Food Colouring (optional); 1 Baking Tray (Essential for roasting your Char Siu Chicken roast evenly.); 1 Parchment Paper (Use this to line your baking tray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.)

The inviting aroma of sweet and savory wafting through the kitchen can ignite a culinary spark like nothing else. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Char Siu Chicken Roast—a quick and delicious alternative to the traditional pork version. This easy, oven-baked recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a protein-rich meal in just 30 minutes. Not only does it satisfy your cravings for Chinese BBQ, but it also features a sticky glaze that promises to delight your taste buds. With its juicy texture and bold flavors, this chicken dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home-cooking repertoire. Ready to impress your family with a delightful dinner? Let’s dive into the cookery magic!

Why is Char Siu Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a flavorful meal, perfect for busy weeknights.

Savory-Sweet Delight: The blend of honey, soy sauce, and spices delivers an irresistible glaze that elevates the chicken.

Versatile Protein: Whether paired with rice or noodles, this dish complements a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Impress family or guests—everyone loves the aromatic, sticky goodness of Char Siu Chicken.

For a delicious side, consider pairing with Garlic Roast Potatoes or Chicken Bacon Ranch for a complete meal!

Char Siu Chicken Roast Ingredients

For the Marinade

300 grams Chicken Thigh – Juicy boneless thighs provide the best flavor and tenderness.
1 tbsp Honey – This adds a warm sweetness; maple syrup can be a delightful swap.
1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce – Provides that savory umami kick; low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier choice.
1 tbsp Oyster Sauce – Infuses the dish with rich depth; opt for mushroom stir-fry sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
1 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce – Enhances the color and adds more sweetness; using molasses gives a unique twist.
2 tbsps Brown Sugar – Promotes caramelization and depth; if you’re out, white sugar works in a pinch.
2 cloves Garlic, pureed or grated – For a robust aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if necessary.
1 inch Ginger, pureed or grated – Adds freshness; ginger powder can work as a milder substitute.
1 tsp Chinese Five Spice powder – Offers a complex flavor; homemade blends give you personalized flair.
Pinch of White Pepper – Adds a gentle warmth; feel free to use black pepper for a different profile.
1 tsp Red Food Colouring (optional) – Traditionally provides color; swap with paprika for a natural tint but be aware of flavor differences.

For Cooking

1 Baking Tray – Essential for roasting your Char Siu Chicken roast evenly.
Parchment Paper – Use this to line your baking tray for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

This Char Siu Chicken Roast is here to steal the spotlight at your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Char Siu Chicken Roast

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). This temperature is perfect for achieving that nice caramelization on your Char Siu Chicken Roast. While the oven is warming, line your baking tray with parchment paper, ensuring easy cleanup later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of honey, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar. Then, add the pureed garlic, ginger, Chinese five spice powder, and a pinch of white pepper. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and a smooth marinade forms, infusing it with savory and sweet flavors.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place 300 grams of chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes—this step deepens the flavors. If you have extra time, consider marinating for longer to achieve even more deliciousness.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken for Roasting
After marinating, remove the chicken from the bowl and place it on the lined baking tray. Spread the pieces evenly, ensuring there’s space between them for even cooking. The glaze will create a lovely sticky finish as it roasts.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through for a beautiful golden color on both sides. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and has a sticky glaze that glistens.

Step 6: Make a Sticky Sauce (Optional)
While the chicken finishes roasting, take any leftover marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, allowing it to thicken for a few minutes. This sticky sauce can be drizzled over your Char Siu Chicken Roast for enhanced flavor before serving.

Variations & Substitutions for Char Siu Chicken Roast

Explore fun twists and substitutions to make this Char Siu Chicken uniquely yours!

Pork Swap: Use pork belly or tenderloin instead of chicken for an authentic Char Siu experience.
Maple Twist: Replace honey with maple syrup for a new layer of sweetness that complements the spices.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or seitan marinated in the same sauce for a flavorful plant-based dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for an added kick that will excite your taste buds.
Citrus Zing: Enhance the flavors with a splash of orange or lemon juice in the marinade for a refreshing twist.
Herb Infusion: Introduce fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish to add freshness to every bite.
More Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or sliced onions to the baking tray to roast alongside the chicken, creating a colorful and nutritious side.
Sticky Sauce Variation: Mix in a bit of hoisin sauce with the marinade for an extra layer of richness and depth.

For an ideal pairing, serve this dish alongside Garlic Parmesan Roasted Sprouts!

How to Store and Freeze Char Siu Chicken Roast

Fridge: Store leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy the chicken again, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or utilize an air fryer for extra crispiness.

Wrapping: If freezing, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a container to avoid freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Char Siu Chicken

Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, but longer is even better for deeper flavor impact.

Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your Char Siu Chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Air Fryer Alternative: If you prefer using an air fryer, set it to 200°C (390°F) and cook for about 20 minutes; adjust time for larger, bone-in pieces.

Leftover Marinade Safety: If you plan to reuse any marinade, make sure to boil it first to eliminate bacteria before drizzling over the chicken.

Parchment Paper Benefits: Lining your baking tray with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Serving Suggestions: Pair the chicken with steamed veggies or fried rice to balance the savory-sweet flavors and add a nutritious touch.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Char Siu Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during a busy weeknight! You can marinate the chicken in the delicious mixture of honey, soy sauces, and spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply place the coated chicken in an airtight container to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. If you’re looking to prep even further, the chicken can be left in the refrigerator to marinate overnight, enhancing the taste. When you’re ready to serve, just roast the marinated chicken in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. This approach allows you to enjoy all the sticky, savory goodness of Char Siu Chicken with minimal effort on the day of serving!

What to Serve with Char Siu Chicken

The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a star, and pairing it with complementary sides will create a memorable dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the sticky glaze, adding a comforting base to your meal.
Stir-Fried Greens: Crispy bok choy or sautéed broccoli provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory richness of the chicken beautifully. Lightly seasoned, they bring vibrant color to your plate.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh veggies, these rolls add a delightful crunch and a fresh zing, making them a perfect appetizer before the main dish.
Garlic Noodles: Richly flavored with garlic and a touch of soy sauce, these noodles offer a satisfying chewiness that complements the chicken’s sticky glaze.
Pickled Cucumber Salad: A zesty and tangy cucumber salad adds brightness to the dish, complementing the sweetness of the chicken with its refreshing crunch.
Peach Iced Tea: A cool, slightly sweet iced tea adds a light and refreshing touch to your meal, making it an excellent drink choice to cleanse the palate.
Chocolate Mochi: For dessert, the soft, chewy texture of mochi filled with rich chocolate will satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a delightful contrast to the meal.
Chilled Sake: This traditional Japanese rice wine, served chilled, harmonizes wonderfully with the flavors of Char Siu Chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe?
When selecting chicken thighs, look for ones that are plump and have a bit of fat marbling—this ensures juiciness and flavor. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or an unpleasant odor. For a quick cook, boneless thighs are perfect, as they provide maximum tenderness and reduce cooking time.

What is the best way to store leftover Char Siu Chicken?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you aim to maintain that sticky glaze, consider reheating it in the oven or air fryer. For crispy edges, the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) works wonders—about 10-15 minutes should do it!

Can I freeze Char Siu Chicken after cooking?
Very! For longer-term storage, you can freeze the Char Siu Chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To do this, ensure the chicken has cooled completely, then wrap each portion in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.

What do I do if the chicken isn’t cooked through?
If you’re unsure about the doneness of your chicken, I recommend using a meat thermometer—your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). If it isn’t there yet, return it to the oven for a few more minutes and check periodically. Flip it halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution, especially if using thicker pieces.

Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Of course! To create a vegetarian-friendly version, swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate as directed, and then bake or air fry until the exterior is golden and crispy. For added flavor, you could also use a mix of mushrooms, which pair beautifully with the sweet and savory marinade. This will provide that delicious taste of Char Siu while keeping it plant-based!

Is it safe to reuse the marinade?
Yes, but with precautions! If you want to drizzle leftover marinade over the chicken before serving, ensure you bring it to a boil. Boiling will eliminate any harmful bacteria that might have come from raw chicken. Alternatively, you can set aside a small portion of the marinade before it touches the chicken, ensuring it’s free from contamination.

These tips will help you make the most of your Char Siu Chicken Roast experience!