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Chinese Five Spice Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

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  • Author: Beverly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Diet: Dairy-Free

Description

This Chinese Five Spice Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of Chinese five spice powder, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and aromatic ingredients. Baked to perfection with a slightly caramelized edge, it makes a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that’s perfect served with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese five spice powder
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Garnish (optional)

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Chinese five spice powder, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to enhance the flavors.
  3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and edges are slightly caramelized.
  5. Broil for Extra Browning: For a crispier, browned finish, switch the oven to broil on high and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired before serving.
  7. Serve: Serve the Chinese Five Spice Chicken alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute boneless chicken breasts for thighs, but reduce the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.