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Char Siu Chicken

Delicious Char Siu Chicken: Easy Homemade Delight

This easy Char Siu Chicken features marinated thighs bursting with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs The main star of this Char Siu Chicken.
  • ¼ cup soy sauce Opt for low-sodium if desired.
  • ¼ cup hoisin sauce Check for gluten-free options if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons honey Could substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Enhances the dish with a nutty aroma.
  • 1 tablespoon five-spice powder Substitute with a homemade blend using basic spices.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Offers a robust flavor.
  • 1 inch fresh ginger (grated) Ground ginger can work in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Any neutral oil will do.
  • ¼ teaspoon red food coloring (optional) Traditionally used for color.
For Garnish
  • green onions (sliced) Brings a pop of freshness and color.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Grill or Oven
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Directions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If desired, stir in red food coloring. Set aside.
  2. Place the chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F about 20 minutes before cooking.
  4. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and allow to come to room temperature. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with reserved marinade until caramelized and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, slice, and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight and baste while cooking for a sticky glaze.

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