Get ready to fire up the grill and tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Char Siu Chicken recipe! Juicy and flavorful chicken breast tenders are marinated in a delicious blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, and Chinese five spice powder, resulting in the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Served on skewers with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced scallions, these grilled Char Siu Chicken skewers are sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue or weeknight dinner!
When preparing Char Siu Chicken on the grill, a common challenge is to achieve the perfect balance of a fully cooked and juicy chicken while achieving a flavorful and nicely charred crust on the outside. It is important to monitor the grill's temperature and cooking time to avoid overcooking or drying out the chicken. Additionally, the sticky marinade used in this recipe can cause the chicken to stick to the grill, resulting in uneven cooking and difficulty in flipping the chicken. To prevent this, you can apply a layer of oil to the grill grates or use a non-stick cooking spray to keep the chicken from sticking.
This recipe offers practical solutions to the challenges of grilling Char Siu Chicken. It provides clear instructions on the grilling time, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked without becoming overcooked or dry, and allowing the chicken to develop a deliciously charred crust. Furthermore, soaking the bamboo skewers in water before threading the chicken helps prevent them from burning, and applying a layer of oil or using a non-stick cooking spray helps keep the chicken from sticking to the grill. By following these steps, you can overcome these challenges and prepare a mouth-watering Char Siu Chicken with ease.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with Char Siu Chicken all over again! Here are three irresistible reasons why our recipe will win over your taste buds and become a staple in your recipe collection.
- Foolproof cooking instructions: Our recipe provides clear and foolproof instructions for grilling the chicken, including the exact cooking time, to ensure that your chicken is perfectly cooked through without becoming dry or overcooked. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grill master, our instructions will help you achieve the perfect char siu chicken every time.
- Sweet and tangy twist: While many Char Siu Chicken recipes call for rice vinegar, we've added a unique twist by using ketchup instead. This gives the dish a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for those who like a little sweetness in their savory dishes!
- Perfectly balanced flavors: Our marinade is a perfect blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, and Chinese five spice powder that creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is both sweet and savory. This balance ensures that the dish is not too sweet or too savory, making it appealing to a wide range of taste preferences. So, whether you're serving it to a group or just making it for yourself, you'll love the perfect balance of flavors in our Char Siu Chicken recipe.
What Meat to Use For This Recipe?
While this Char Siu Chicken recipe calls specifically for chicken breasts or tenders, you can use other meats as well, such as pork or beef. Pork is a popular alternative and is often used in traditional Chinese Char Siu dishes. Pork shoulder or tenderloin are great options for this recipe. Beef can also be used, with flank steak or sirloin being good choices. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly based on the type and thickness of the meat you choose to use.
3 Success Tips for This Char Siu Chicken Recipe
If you're looking to make this Char Siu Chicken recipe a success, here are three tips to keep in mind:
- Properly marinate the chicken: The marinade is a crucial component of this dish, as it imparts the sweet and savory flavors that make Char Siu Chicken so delicious. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for best results, to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Monitor the grill temperature and cooking time: To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through but not overcooked or dry, it's important to keep an eye on the grill temperature and cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature, and adjust as needed based on the thickness and type of meat being used.
- Let the chicken rest before serving: Once the chicken is fully cooked, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken. Simply cover the chicken with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to making a delicious and perfectly grilled Char Siu Chicken!
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken breast tenders (depending on size)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- ½ tablespoon Chinese five spice powder
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Step By Step Recipe
Making the char siu sauce: in a bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, Chinese five spice powder, and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cut the chicken breast tenders into long, thin strips about 1 inch wide. Add the chicken strips to the char siu marinade, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Thread the chicken strips onto the soaked bamboo skewers, weaving the skewer through the meat several times to hold it securely.
Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice charred crust.
Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Char Siu Chicken skewers hot, garnished with sliced scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
** Enjoy your delicious Char Siu Chicken skewers! **
Ingredients
- 4-6 units chicken breast tenders (depending on size)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- ½ tablespoon Chinese five spice powder
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 units bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions
- Making the char siu sauce: in a bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, Chinese five spice powder, and minced garlic. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cut the chicken breast tenders into long, thin strips about 1 inch wide. Add the chicken strips to the char siu marinade, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the chicken strips onto the soaked bamboo skewers, weaving the skewer through the meat several times to hold it securely.
- Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice charred crust.
- Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Char Siu Chicken skewers hot, garnished with sliced scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Soak the skewers in water: To prevent the bamboo skewers from burning on the grill, it's important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using. This will also help to prevent the chicken from sticking to the skewers.
- Adjust cooking time based on meat thickness: The recommended cooking time of 4-5 minutes per side is based on chicken breast tenders that are about 1 inch wide. If you're using thicker or thinner cuts of meat, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through but not overcooked. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked.
- Adding sesame oil: if you're looking to add a sesame flavor to the dish, you can try adding a small amount of sesame oil to the marinade, but keep in mind that a little goes a long way as sesame oil has a strong and distinct flavor. Start with just a teaspoon or two and adjust to your liking. Alternatively, you can drizzle some sesame oil over the chicken after it's cooked for an added burst of flavor.
Nutrition
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftover Char Siu Chicken, it's important to store it properly to ensure its freshness and quality. You can store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat the chicken, you can either microwave it until it's heated through or place it on a baking sheet and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until it's heated through.
If you want to store the Char Siu Chicken for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing it. To thaw the frozen chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight before reheating.
It's important to note that while reheating can restore the texture and flavor of the chicken, the dish is best enjoyed fresh from the grill for the most delicious and flavorful results.
Side Dishes
- Steamed rice: Char Siu Chicken is traditionally served with steamed rice. The rice is a great way to balance out the sweetness and saltiness of the chicken, and it makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
- Fried rice: Fried rice is another classic Chinese side dish that would pair well with Char Siu Chicken. This versatile dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein and can be flavored with soy sauce, oyster sauce, or other seasonings.
- Stir-fried vegetables: A side of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas, can add some color and nutrition to the meal. The vegetables can be lightly seasoned with garlic and soy sauce to complement the flavors of the chicken.
- Egg rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with savory ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and ground pork make for a delicious and complementary side dish to Char Siu Chicken. You can make them from scratch or buy them frozen and bake them in the oven for a quick and easy side.
- Steamed dumplings: Another traditional Chinese side dish that pairs well with Char Siu Chicken is steamed dumplings. Whether they're filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables, the dumplings are a tasty way to add some variety to the meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Char Siu Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that's perfect for grilling season or any time you're craving something sweet and savory. Our recipe provides clear and specific instructions for grilling the chicken, as well as a well-balanced marinade that includes ketchup for a slightly sweet and tangy twist. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grill master, our recipe is sure to impress and become a go-to dish for your next barbecue or dinner party. Don't forget to pair it with some traditional sides like steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely! The recipe for Char Siu Chicken can easily be adapted to make Char Siu Pork instead. In fact, Char Siu Pork is a popular Chinese dish that is made in a similar way to Char Siu Chicken.
To make garlicky chinese barbecued pork, you can follow the same marinade recipe and grilling or roasting instructions as you would for Char Siu Chicken. Simply replace the chicken with pork tenderloin or boneless pork shoulder and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Pork takes slightly longer to cook through than chicken, so you may need to grill or roast it for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
The marinade for Char Siu Pork is typically the same as for Char Siu Chicken, made with a combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and Chinese five-spice powder. However, you can also add your own twist by including other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, or chili paste to give it a different flavor profile.
Overall, Char Siu Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that's perfect for serving at any time of year. Enjoy!
Yes, you can definitely use boneless skinless chicken thighs for this Char Siu Chicken recipe instead of chicken breast tenders. Chicken thighs are a great option as they are more flavorful and tend to be more moist and juicy than chicken breast meat.
To use chicken thighs, you can follow the same recipe instructions for marinating and grilling the chicken, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Depending on the thickness of the marinated chicken thighs, they may take slightly longer to cook through than chicken breast tenders. You'll want to cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
Keep in mind that using chicken thighs may also require slightly longer marinating time to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. So, be sure to marinate the chicken thighs for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for best results.
Overall, using chicken thighs is a great way to add extra flavor and juiciness to this delicious Char Siu Chicken recipe.
We recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for best results, to allow the flavors to fully develop.
To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill, be sure to oil the grill grates or use a non-stick cooking spray. You can also soak the bamboo skewers in water before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning and sticking to the grill.
Yes, you can bake this Char Siu Chicken recipe in the oven instead of grilling it. To do so, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the marinated chicken on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
You can also broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes to give it a slightly charred crust, if desired. Just be sure to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming overcooked or dry.
While baking is a great alternative for those who don't have access to a grill, keep in mind that the charred flavor that comes from grilling may be slightly different in the baked version. Nonetheless, baked Char Siu Chicken is still a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
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