If you’re looking for a dish that combines sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, Hoisin Chicken is your answer. Using chicken quarters, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The star of the show is the Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce, which adds a unique depth to the dish that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how to bring this delightful dish to your dinner table!
Why It Works Every Time
Hoisin Chicken is a champion of flavor and convenience. The mixture of hoisin sauce, barbecue sauce, and a touch of soy sauce creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. Using chicken quarters ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender, while the skin crisps up nicely under high heat. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for a gathering. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredient Checklist
- 4 chicken quarters (legs with thighs attached)
- ¾ cup Lee Kum Kee Hoisin Sauce
- ¾ cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Setup & Equipment
- Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken.
- Baking dish or sheet pan: To roast the chicken evenly.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Whisk: To combine your sauce ingredients smoothly.
Make Hoisin Chicken: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Hoisin Sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken quarters to the bowl, making sure they are well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help caramelize the sugars in the sauce, giving your chicken a beautiful glaze.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken quarters skin-side up in a baking dish or on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For a crispy skin, broil for the last 5 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Hoisin Chicken with a side of steamed rice or roasted vegetables!
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- For a spicy kick, add sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
- Try substituting the barbecue sauce with a homemade teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different herbs, like cilantro or basil, for fresh flavor notes.
- For a tropical twist, add pineapple juice to the marinade.
What Not to Do
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s crucial for flavor and tenderness.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Don’t forget to check the internal temperature; undercooked chicken can be unsafe.
- Refrain from using low-quality sauces, as the flavors hinge on the quality of your ingredients.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Leftover Hoisin Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the meat.
Common Qs About Hoisin Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of quarters?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they cook faster than quarters. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What can I serve with Hoisin Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad. For a unique twist, serve it alongside Sweet And Sticky Hoisin Beef Rice Bowls.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even further, making it more delicious when cooked.
Is Hoisin Chicken spicy?
Hoisin Chicken is generally not spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding sriracha or cayenne pepper to the marinade if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Bring It to the Table
Now that you have this easy and flavorful Hoisin Chicken recipe, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the dinner table. The sweet and savory aroma will draw everyone in, and the vibrant colors will make your meal feel special. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings warmth and joy to your mealtime. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Hoisin Chicken will become a family favorite in no time.
This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly magical. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Hoisin Chicken!
Hoisin Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Hoisin Sauce, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the chicken quarters to the bowl, making sure they are well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help caramelize the sugars in the sauce, giving your chicken a beautiful glaze.
- Place the marinated chicken quarters skin-side up in a baking dish or on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For a crispy skin, broil for the last 5 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Hoisin Chicken with a side of steamed rice or roasted vegetables!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for deeper flavor, up to 4 hours.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
