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Char Siew Chicken
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Char Siew Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Char Siew Chicken is a beloved dish in Singapore's vibrant hawker and kopitiam scenes, marrying the bold, sweet-savory flavors of classic char siew with succulent chicken. Traditionally, char siew refers to Cantonese-style roasted pork, but in Singapore, the chicken adaptation is a favorite among those seeking lighter, healthier options or simply a change from the usual fare. The dish boasts a glossy, caramelized glaze that’s both aromatic and irresistible, served over fragrant steamed rice or alongside blanched greens. This healthy Char Siew Chicken recipe pays homage to Singapore’s dynamic food culture, where influences from Chinese, Malay, and other local communities blend seamlessly. It’s a testament to Singapore’s culinary creativity—seeing char siew chicken on a kopitiam menu is a sign of how traditional recipes are lovingly adapted for diverse tastes and dietary needs. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also a great way to enjoy hawker classics at home with a mindful approach to calories and nutrition.
Ingredients(for 1 rice plate portion (about 200g chicken + sauce, with side greens))
- 300g Boneless chicken breast (Skinless, for lower fat)
- 2 tbsp Low sodium light soy sauce (shēng chōu 生抽)
- 1 tbsp Dark soy sauce (lǎo chōu 老抽 for color)
- 1 tbsp Honey (for natural sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce (adds depth)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp Five spice powder (wǔ xiāng fěn 五香粉)
- 1/4 tsp White pepper
- 1 tsp Sesame oil
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
- 2 stalks Spring onions (chopped, for garnish) - optional
- 1 cup Blanched choy sum or bok choy (for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, five spice powder, white pepper, and sesame oil. Mix well to create the marinade.
5 minutes
For deeper flavor, prepare marinade a few hours ahead.
- 2
Slice chicken breast into thick strips. Add chicken to marinade, coat thoroughly, and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
10 minutes
Longer marination enhances tenderness and taste.
- 3
Preheat oven to 200°C (or use an air fryer). Place marinated chicken on a lined baking tray. Reserve excess marinade for sauce.
2 minutes
Line tray with foil for easy cleanup and better caramelization.
- 4
Bake chicken for 15 minutes, turning halfway and brushing with extra marinade for a glossy finish.
15 minutes
Watch closely to avoid burning the honey glaze.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By swapping fatty cuts and sugary glazes for lean chicken breast and natural sweeteners, this Char Siew Chicken delivers the authentic Singaporean flavor with fewer calories and less saturated fat. It’s a heart-friendly, high-protein meal that helps with satiety and muscle repair, making it ideal for anyone watching their weight or seeking balanced nutrition. The addition of vegetables increases fiber intake, essential for digestive health.
This Char Siew Chicken recipe uses skinless chicken breast, making it high in lean protein while keeping fat levels low. The use of honey over refined sugar and low sodium soy sauce helps reduce overall calories and sodium content. Five spice powder and garlic add antioxidants and micronutrients. The inclusion of blanched greens ensures a dose of fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium. This dish can fit well in balanced diets, offering a good protein-to-calorie ratio and supporting muscle maintenance.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For extra char, grill the chicken for 1-2 minutes after baking.
- 💡Tip 2: Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing balance.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Char Siew Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain juiciness. Sauce can be stored separately and reheated as needed.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 210.0 kcal |
