icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze Recipe

If you love the irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors melting together on tender chicken, then you’re absolutely going to adore this recipe for icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze. This glossy Cantonese Char Siu Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, boasting a luscious, shiny barbecue glaze that clings perfectly to every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish brings both comfort and excitement to your table with its rich layers of flavor and beautiful caramelized finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this mouthwatering icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing a unique note to the final dish—from the umami depth of hoisin and soy to the warm aroma of Chinese five-spice powder.

• Chicken thighs or breasts (1½ lb): Choose boneless, skinless pieces for juicy, tender bites that soak up the glaze beautifully.
• Hoisin sauce (3 tbsp + 1 tbsp): This thick, fragrant sauce brings a complex sweetness and savory punch that’s crucial to the glaze.
• Honey (2 tbsp + 2 tbsp): Adds natural sweetness and helps create that irresistible glossy sheen on the chicken.
• Soy sauce (2 tbsp + 1 tbsp): Provides salty depth and color, enhancing the marinade and glaze.
• Oyster sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers a subtle briny richness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• Neutral oil (1 tbsp): Helps with marinating and roasting for a tender result.
• Garlic (2 cloves, finely grated): Infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic base that’s simply irresistible.
• Chinese five-spice powder (1 tsp): A blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and pepper adds a warm, exotic twist.
• Ground white or black pepper (½ tsp): Just a touch to balance the sweetness with gentle heat.
• Water (1 tbsp): Used to smooth out the glaze for easy brushing.
• Optional garnishes: Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds bring freshness and crunch when sprinkled on top.

How to Make icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, oil, garlic, Chinese five-spice, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Add your choice of chicken thighs or breasts and toss them until each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, overnight in the fridge to deepen the flavors. This simple step infuses every bite with that signature sweet and savory character.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Tray

Set your oven to 220 degrees Celsius (425 degrees Fahrenheit). Line a baking tray with foil to catch drips and place a wire rack on top. The rack allows the chicken to roast evenly and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy, ensuring those beautifully caramelized edges that make this icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze so special.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the rack in a single layer. Roast for about 15 minutes, then flip each piece carefully and roast for another 10 minutes. At this point, the chicken should be almost cooked through, with tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Make the Glossy Barbecue Glaze

While the chicken roasts, whisk together honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and water until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This glaze will add that signature shine and flavor layer you can’t resist in icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze.

Step 5: Glaze and Caramelize

Brush each piece of chicken generously with the glaze, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes. Flip the pieces once halfway through this glazing stage to achieve a deeply glossy, slightly charred finish that locks in flavor and delivers that perfect bite every time.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once the chicken is beautifully charred and glossy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender. Then slice against the grain to ensure each piece remains juicy and easy to eat.

How to Serve icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only elevates the flavor but also adds vibrant color and texture. The bright onion freshness and subtle nutty crunch enhance the glaze’s sweet and savory notes, making each serving even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the excess glaze beautifully. Alternatively, try serving it alongside stir-fried bok choy or crisp green beans for a fresh, crunchy contrast. Fried rice also makes a satisfying, flavorful bed that complements the chicken’s richness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and add it to noodle bowls, layering with fresh vegetables and broth to create an unforgettable meal. Alternatively, use the glazed chicken in bao-style sandwiches with a drizzle of extra glaze and pickled veggies for a delightful handheld treat that’s sure to impress all your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your leftovers, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Make sure to separate pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The chicken will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat your saved chicken gently to preserve moisture and maximize flavor. For best results, warm it in a low oven or microwave with a damp paper towel over the top to avoid drying out, then brush with extra glaze to refresh that gorgeous shiny finish before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender due to their higher fat content, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly if you prefer leaner cuts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.

Is there a substitute for Chinese five-spice powder?

If you don’t have Chinese five-spice powder on hand, you can mix equal parts ground cinnamon, star anise, cloves, fennel seeds, and black pepper to mimic the flavor. It’s a key part of that authentic taste in icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes! The marinade can be mixed a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Combine it with the chicken just before cooking. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I achieve a glossy glaze without burning it?

Applying the glaze towards the end of roasting and keeping an eye on the chicken while it caramelizes helps prevent burning. Turning the chicken once during glazing also ensures an even, glossy finish without charred spots.

What if I want a spicier version?

Feel free to add a dash of chili flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the marinade. The sweet and savory balance of the glaze handles heat beautifully and creates a delicious spicy twist on icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze.

Final Thoughts

Making this icken with Sweet & Savory Barbecue Glaze has been one of my favorite kitchen victories—combining simple ingredients with a little patience turns an ordinary meal into something spectacular. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly you can impress everyone at your table with that irresistible glossy glaze and bold, comforting flavors. Happy cooking and even happier eating!