Learn how to make delicious, authentic Char Siu (Chinese BBQ) chicken thighs in the air fryer! In this video, experienced Chinese chef Andrew shares his family recipe and technique for achieving that perfect sticky, glossy, and flavorful Char Siu glaze on juicy chicken thighs.
No more waiting for the grill or oven - the air fryer is the perfect tool for replicating the crispy yet tender texture of traditional Char Siu at home. Chef Andrew walks you through marinating the chicken in a sweet and savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, hoisin, rice vinegar, and aromatic spices.
You'll learn his tips for getting maximum flavor penetration and that signature charred effect. Then, he demonstrates how to cook the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer for fuss-free, fast results with all the charred, caramelized taste you crave.
Make enough for meal prep or double the batch for your next barbecue - these air fryer Char Siu chicken thighs are guaranteed to be a hit! Perfect for putting together quick stir-fries, rice bowls, or serving as an appetizer.
Don't miss out on this easy, authentic recipe from a true master of Chinese cuisine. Hit that subscribe button for more tasty air fryer recipes!
Here's the recipe for BBQ Char Siu Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer:
Ingredients:
8-10 chicken thighs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
2 tbsp oyster sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp crushed garlic
3 tsp sugar
3 tsp char siu sauce
3 tsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Wash and clean the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Use a sharp knife to make a few slits in each chicken thigh.
2. In a large bowl, sprinkle the chicken thighs with salt, white pepper, 1 tsp sugar, and Chinese five-spice powder.
3. Drizzle the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, Chinese rice wine, and olive oil over the chicken thighs. Mix well to coat evenly.
4. Add in the crushed garlic and mix again. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 180-200°C (350-400°F).
6. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Air fry for 10 minutes.
7. Flip the chicken thighs and air fry for another 10 minutes.
8. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the char siu coating sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tsp sugar, 3 tsp char siu sauce, 3 tsp hoisin sauce, and a drizzle of honey.
9. After the chicken has cooked for 20 minutes, remove it from the air fryer and brush or coat both sides generously with the char siu sauce mixture.
10. Return the coated chicken thighs to the air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the glaze is caramelized and slightly charred to your desired level.
11. Remove the BBQ char siu chicken thighs from the air fryer and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes:
Adjust cooking times as needed based on the size and thickness of your chicken thighs.
For extra char, you can broil the glazed chicken thighs for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.