Bring bold Asian-inspired flavors to your weekly meal prep with this Irresistible Char Siu Chicken. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice, then baked until perfectly caramelized and juicy. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor while being simple enough for busy weeknight dinners or make-ahead lunches.
This Char Siu Chicken quickly became one of those recipes my family gets excited about every time it appears on the menu. My husband loves the glossy caramelized coating and always asks for extra sauce because the combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic spices is completely addictive.
I first made this recipe when I wanted a meal prep option that didn’t feel boring. Instead of another plain chicken dish, this one brought incredible flavor to every lunch box. Now we prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and it makes busy days so much easier. Served with rice and vegetables, it has become a family favorite that proves meal prep can be both convenient and delicious.
Why This Char Siu Chicken Meal Prep Recipe
- Juicy chicken thighs coated in a rich, sticky Asian-inspired glaze.
- Sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors from hoisin sauce, honey, ginger, and five-spice.
- Perfect for meal prep because it reheats beautifully.
- Simple marinade creates deep flavor with minimal effort.
- Baked instead of grilled for an easy homemade version.
- Great served with rice, noodles, vegetables, or fresh salads.
- A delicious alternative to ordinary chicken recipes.
Ingredients
Makes 5 servings
For the Char Siu Chicken Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (900 g | 2 lb), trimmed of excess fat
- Soy sauce (60 ml | ¼ cup)
- Hoisin sauce (60 ml | ¼ cup)
- Honey (30 g | 0.07 lb)
- Brown sugar (25 g | 0.05 lb), packed
- Rice wine or dry sherry (30 ml | 2 tablespoons)
- Chinese five-spice powder (4 g | 0.009 lb)
- Fresh garlic cloves, minced (6 g | 0.013 lb)
- Fresh ginger, finely grated (5 g | 0.011 lb)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice wine, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger. Whisk everything together until the marinade becomes smooth and glossy.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in the marinade and coat each piece thoroughly, making sure the sauce covers all sides.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the deepest flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight.
- When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup and place a wire rack on top if available.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the rack, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, then brush the chicken with the remaining marinade from the bowl or the juices collected underneath.
- Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, caramelized, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Slice and serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, noodles, or your favorite meal prep sides.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are recommended because they stay moist and tender, but chicken breast can also be used. Reduce cooking time to prevent drying.
- For a stronger char siu flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Add a tablespoon of ketchup or a small amount of red food coloring for a more traditional restaurant-style appearance (optional).
- If you prefer a spicier version, add chili flakes, sriracha, or a drizzle of chili oil to the marinade.
- Store cooked chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of water to keep the chicken juicy.
- Serve with jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, cucumber salad, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal prep bowl.