If you have a craving for something richly flavorful, sweet, and savory all at once, this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe will become your new favorite go-to. It beautifully marries tender chicken thighs with a deeply aromatic marinade that’s bursting with classic Chinese five-spice, honey sweetness, and just the right touch of soy sauce complexity. Roasting the chicken to perfection results in a gorgeous caramelized crust that’s absolutely irresistible. This recipe promises to deliver a comforting, restaurant-worthy dish right from your own kitchen, with flavors that invite everyone to the table.

Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. Each ingredient plays a vital role: from the honey that lends a luscious glaze to the five-spice powder that adds that signature warm aroma, every element combines to create a beautifully balanced flavor and vibrant color.

300g chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in or boneless): Perfectly juicy and tender, these are the foundation of the dish.
1 tbsp honey: Provides a natural sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze.
1 tbsp light soy sauce: Adds delicate saltiness and depth.
1 tbsp oyster sauce: Delivers an umami richness that elevates the marinade.
1 tbsp dark soy sauce (or kecap manis): Gives color and subtle sweetness for that classic red roast look.
2 tbsp brown sugar: Enhances caramelization and balances savory flavors.
2 cloves garlic, pureed or grated: Adds a pungent warmth that wakes up the palate.
1-inch piece ginger, pureed or grated: Brings brightness and a slight spicy note.
1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder: Infuses the meat with aromatic hints of star anise, cloves, and cinnamon.
Pinch of white pepper: Gives a gentle heat that complements the marinade’s sweetness.
1 tsp red food coloring (optional): For that signature glossy red exterior without altering flavor.

How to Make Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

The secret behind a great Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe lies in the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the honey, light and dark soy sauces, oyster sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, five-spice powder, white pepper, and the optional red food coloring. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely and you end up with a glossy, aromatic mixture that promises layers of flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Coat each chicken thigh evenly with your marinade, making sure every nook is covered—you want every bite to burst with taste. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, overnight marination will really allow the flavors to seep deep into the meat. This step is key to achieving that classic char siu taste we all love.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top so the chicken can roast all around, allowing the skin to crisp beautifully while preventing it from steaming in its own juices.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the marinade and arrange the thighs spaced evenly on the wire rack. Don’t toss the leftover marinade just yet—we’ll need it to make a delicious glaze that will give the chicken its signature sticky sheen and extra flavor punch.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Pop your chicken into the oven and roast for 20 minutes. This initial roast sets the stage by cooking the meat through and beginning the caramelization process that you’ll enhance with a glaze right after.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the chicken is roasting, place the reserved marinade in a small saucepan over low heat. Let it simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze. This step concentrates the flavors and makes the perfect coating for your roast chicken.

Step 7: Baste and Finish Roasting

After the initial 20 minutes, brush the glaze generously onto the chicken, flip the pieces over, and glaze the other side. Return it to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, giving the chicken a chance to get that slightly charred, smoky finish that makes this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe so special.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once roasted to perfection, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. Now you’re ready to slice and serve this gorgeous, flavorful roast that’s bound to impress at any meal.

How to Serve Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your presentation and add a fresh contrast to the rich roast. Consider adding finely sliced spring onions, a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds, or fresh coriander leaves for bursts of color and freshness that complement the deep umami flavors.

Side Dishes

This Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, or you can serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a vibrant, balanced plate. Asian-style noodles or a crisp cucumber salad also make excellent companions that contrast the savory-sweet chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a bit different, slice the Char Siu chicken thin and serve in bao buns with pickled vegetables and hoisin sauce for finger-food fun. Or, toss sliced chicken into fried rice or a noodle stir-fry to instantly upgrade a simple meal with layers of flavor from your roast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Char Siu Chicken Roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken chilled preserves its flavor and texture, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep the chicken longer, you can freeze cooked pieces for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap them well or place them in a freezer-friendly container. When ready to eat, thaw slowly in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in an oven or air fryer to preserve its crispy edges, or warm it in a pan with a splash of water to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving as it can make the skin less appealing, but if you do, use short bursts and cover loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe?

You can use chicken breast, but thighs are preferred because they stay juicier and more flavorful when roasted. Breasts tend to dry out faster, so if using them, marinate well and cook carefully to avoid overcooking.

Is red food coloring necessary for this recipe?

Red food coloring is optional. It mainly gives the chicken that classic bright red color associated with traditional Char Siu. The flavor will be fantastic without it, so feel free to skip if you prefer a more natural look.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the marinade a day ahead. This can help deepen the flavors even more when you marinate the chicken. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until needed.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The chicken should be caramelized on the outside and tender inside. The juices will run clear when pierced with a fork.

What can I do with leftover marinade?

Since the marinade is raw, never use it directly without cooking. However, simmering it as a glaze, like in the recipe, is a perfect way to transform it into a safe and delicious sauce for basting or dipping.

Final Thoughts

Making the Char Siu Chicken Roast Recipe at home is such a joyful experience. From preparing the flavorful marinade to watching that beautiful caramelized crust form in the oven, every step feels rewarding. This dish not only fills the kitchen with tantalizing aromas but also promises a combination of sweet, savory, and spicy bites that everyone will adore. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of a beloved classic, freshly made in your own kitchen!