Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe

If you have a craving for something that packs an explosion of flavors with tender, juicy chicken, then this Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the sweetness of honey and brown sugar with the savory punch of hoisin and oyster sauces, all balanced by aromatic Chinese five spice powder and a hint of sesame oil. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking indoors, this dish will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and your plate with vibrant, mouthwatering bites that are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that perfect caramelized color. From the bold spices to the tender chicken thighs, these staples come together to create a harmony you’ll want to savor again and again.

• Garlic cloves, minced: Adds a warm and aromatic base that lifts the entire flavor profile.
• Brown sugar (2 tsp): Provides sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
• Honey (1 1/2 tbsp): Helps create a sticky, luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken.
• Hoisin sauce (1 1/2 tbsp): Brings a rich, slightly sweet umami depth that’s signature to Chinese BBQ flavors.
• Oyster sauce (2 tsp): Adds a complex savory note that enhances the overall taste.
• Light soy sauce (1 ½ tbsp): Provides saltiness and color, essential for that authentic BBQ look and flavor.
• Chinese five spice powder (1/2 tsp): Gives a fragrant, warm spice blend that sets this dish apart.
• Sesame oil (1/2 tsp): Just a hint adds an irresistible toasted nuttiness.
• Red food coloring (few drops, optional): Used for traditional vibrant color but optional for those who prefer to keep it natural.
• Chicken thigh fillets (750 g / 1.5 lb, skinless and boneless): Perfectly tender and juicy, these cook quickly and soak up the marinade beautifully.
• Vegetable oil (1 tbsp): For cooking and preventing sticking, essential for a great sear.
• Bamboo skewers (10–12, soaked): Optional but great if you want that fun, easy-to-handle grilled presentation.
• Green onions/scallions, finely sliced: Adds a fresh, crisp garnish to brighten the finished dish.

How to Make Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by placing all the marinade ingredients—garlic, brown sugar, honey, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese five spice powder, sesame oil, and optional red food coloring—into a ziplock bag or mixing bowl. Stir or seal and shake gently until everything is well combined. This mixture is the magical sauce that will infuse every bite with authentic Chinese barbecue flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thigh fillets to the marinade and toss to coat them thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it rest in the fridge for at least 3 hours, but for the best taste, leave it overnight. This gives the chicken time to soak up all those nuanced flavors and become tender and juicy.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers (Optional)

If you want that classic BBQ look or are planning to grill, cut the chicken into bite-sized or larger pieces and thread them onto soaked bamboo skewers. Use one skewer for smaller pieces and two for larger chunks for stability. This step adds a wonderful communal vibe to your meal and makes serving super fun.

Step 4: Heat the Pan or Prepare the Grill

Heat half of the vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat or get your grill ready at medium heat. If grilling, brush the grate with oil to prevent sticking. This step ensures a beautiful sear which locks in juices, giving the chicken that irresistible caramelized exterior.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, but don’t discard the marinade—keep it for basting later. Place the chicken pieces or skewers in the hot pan or grill in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook the first side for about 4 minutes, then flip them over to start that golden browning on the other side.

Step 6: Baste the Chicken

Once you turn the chicken the first time, brush the reserved marinade onto the cooked side. Let it cook for about 3 minutes so the glaze gets sticky and rich. Then turn the chicken again so the basted side hits the heat once more, cooking it for another minute to set those wonderful flavors.

Step 7: Final Baste and Cook

Baste the chicken one more time, flip again, and cook for about 45 seconds to one minute on the final side. This extra glazing ensures each piece is glossy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced between sweet, savory, and smoky notes.

Step 8: Rest the Chicken

Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil for five minutes. Resting is the secret to juicy BBQ chicken because it allows the juices to redistribute, so each bite is mouthwateringly tender.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once rested, sprinkle with finely sliced green onions or scallions if you like, adding a fresh pop of color and crispness that contrasts beautifully with the rich meat. Your Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe is ready to impress!

How to Serve Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Green onions are a classic choice to brighten up this dish with their fresh, mild bite. You could also toss on some toasted sesame seeds to add texture and an earthy, nutty hint. These small touches enhance the overall eating experience dramatically.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with fragrant steamed jasmine rice or sticky white rice, which soak up all the luscious juices. For vegetables, think stir-fried bok choy, snap peas, or a crunchy Asian slaw to create a well-rounded meal that balances flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Try presenting the skewers over a bed of fresh greens for a casual gathering or serve the sliced chicken over a noodle bowl with crunchy peanuts and fresh herbs for an impressive twist. You can even roll it up in lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held bite bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its fantastic flavor and moisture, making for quick, delicious meals during the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for longer, freeze portions in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, the chicken will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave it covered to prevent drying out. For best results, add a splash of water or chicken stock to keep that juicy texture and re-baste lightly with any saved marinade or sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast will work just fine, but since it’s leaner, be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out faster than thigh meat. Marinating longer helps keep it tender and flavorful.

Is the red food coloring necessary?

No, it’s purely optional. It’s traditionally used to give that vibrant red hue often seen in Chinese BBQ, but skipping it will not affect the taste at all. The natural caramelization will still give you a beautiful color.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce if you need to avoid gluten. There are many great gluten-free versions available that maintain the flavor without compromise.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken anywhere from 3 hours up to 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more intense and tender the flavor will be, but avoid going beyond 24 hours to keep the texture perfect.

What if I don’t have a grill or heavy skillet?

No problem at all! You can even bake the chicken on a lined baking tray at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, basting halfway through. While the smoky char flavor won’t be the same, it will still taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese BBQ Chicken Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it’s so effortlessly delicious and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, the layers of flavor and juicy, tender chicken will keep you coming back for more. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to dish that everyone loves!

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