If you’re a fan of sweet, sticky, and savoury flavours, then Char Siu chicken is about to become your new favourite dish. Traditionally, Char Siu is a Cantonese-style barbecue pork that’s glazed with a glossy red marinade and roasted until perfectly caramelized. The name Char Siu translates to “fork roasted” in Cantonese, referring to how the meat was traditionally skewered and cooked over an open flame.

For those who prefer chicken over pork or are looking for a leaner alternative, this Air Fried Char Siu Chicken is a game-changer. Using boneless chicken thighs, a homemade Char Siu marinade, and the convenience of an air fryer, you can achieve that authentic caramelization without the hassle of traditional roasting.

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it fits into meal prep. I like to batch cook 1kg of chicken at a time, portioning it out for lunches throughout the week. Served with rice, salad, or stir-fried vegetables, this Char Siu chicken transforms a simple meal into something exciting and flavourful.

In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about making Air Fried Char Siu Chicken, from its history and flavour profile to FAQs and meal prep tips.

The History and Flavour Profile of Char Siu

Char Siu is a classic dish in Cantonese cuisine, with a history that dates back over 1,000 years. Originating in southern China, it was initially a method of preserving and enhancing the flavour of meat. Traditionally, pork shoulder or belly was marinated in a mixture of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice, and red fermented bean curd, then roasted until the outside was caramelized and sticky.

The flavour profile of Char Siu is a perfect balance of:

Sweetness: From honey or sugar, creating a sticky glaze.
Umami: From soy sauce and hoisin, adding depth.
Warm spices: From Chinese five-spice powder, which includes star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel.

This Air Fried Char Siu Chicken retains the classic flavours of Char Siu but with a lighter, leaner twist. The air fryer creates a beautiful caramelization and crisp edges without the need for excessive oil.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

1kg (2.2 lbs) boneless chicken breast: Leaner than thighs and perfect for a low-fat, high-protein option.
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Adds sweet and salty umami with a thick texture for glazing.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides depth and saltiness.
2 tablespoons honey: Caramelizes in the air fryer for a sticky, glossy finish.
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder: Adds warm, aromatic spice that’s essential to Char Siu.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Enhances umami and adds a subtle brininess.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Saves time compared to fresh garlic and evenly coats the chicken.
1 teaspoon red food colouring (optional): For the traditional red hue, but you can skip it for a natural look.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds nuttiness and rounds out the flavours.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.

Meal Prep Tips: How I Use Char Siu Chicken for My Lunches

One of the reasons I love this recipe is how well it fits into my meal prep routine. I typically make 1kg of chicken at a time, which gives me about 4-5 servings—perfect for weekday lunches.

How to Store and Reheat

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or a pan with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

Over jasmine rice with steamed broccoli and carrots.
As a salad topping with shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing.
In a wrap with cucumber, lettuce, and sriracha mayo for an easy lunch.

Health Benefits of Air Fried Char Siu Chicken

Air frying is a healthier alternative to roasting or frying in oil, reducing the overall fat content by up to 70%. This method:

Creates less acrylamide (a harmful compound formed during frying).
Uses less oil, making it lower in calories.
Retains more nutrients compared to traditional frying.

Chicken thighs are not only more flavour packed than breasts but also provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Paired with the antioxidants from spices like cloves and star anise in Chinese five-spice, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

FAQ

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?

Yes! Substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but increase the cook time by 2-3 minutes and remember this will increase your calories.

2. How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free hoisin sauce. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I Freeze the Cooked Chicken?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or a pan.

4. Do I Need to Flip the Chicken in the Air Fryer?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures even cooking and caramelization.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy People

With just 10 minutes of prep and the air fryer doing all the work, this Char Siu chicken is ideal for anyone with a busy schedule. The bold flavours and satisfying protein content make it a go-to for:
✔ Meal prep lunches
✔ Weeknight dinners with minimal clean-up
✔ Post-workout meals for a protein boost

Final Thoughts: Make Air Fried Char Siu Chicken Part of Your Meal Prep Rotation

This Air Fried Char Siu Chicken is a healthier, easier way to enjoy the classic flavours of Cantonese barbecue without the fuss of roasting. With its sticky, caramelized exterior and juicy, tender meat, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal prep rotation.

Whether you’re serving it with rice, salad, or in a wrap, this recipe is a delicious way to upgrade your lunches for the week. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on its sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours!