Name: Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup hoisin sauce; 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 minced garlic cloves; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar or dry sherry; 2 tablespoons honey; 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (approximately 2 pounds); Vegetable oil (for grilling); 1 1/2 medium carrots (approximately 8 ounces), sliced into matchsticks (about 3 by 1/4); 1/2 daikon radish (approximately 8 ounces), sliced into matchsticks (about 3 by 1/4); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup plus 2 teaspoons granulated sugar, divided; 1 cup water; 1 cup white distilled vinegar; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 4 soft white sandwich rolls; Kosher salt; 1 cup fresh cilantro sprigs; 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced

Are you tired of the same old chicken sandwich? Looking for a delicious and flavorful twist that will leave your taste buds begging for more? Look no further than Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches! These mouthwatering sandwiches are packed with succulent, tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory Chinese barbecue sauce known as Char Siu. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to make this delectable dish.

What is Char Siu?

Char Siu is a traditional Cantonese-style barbecue sauce that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It is made from a combination of ingredients such as soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, and red bean curd, which give it its distinct sweet and savory flavor. This sauce is typically used to marinate and glaze meats, such as pork or chicken, before grilling or roasting.

Marinating the Chicken

To make Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches, you'll first need to marinate the chicken in the Char Siu sauce. This step is crucial to infuse the chicken with the rich flavors of the sauce. Simply coat the chicken with the sauce and let it marinate for at least two hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Grilling the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to grill it to perfection. The high heat of the grill will caramelize the sugars in the sauce and create a beautiful char on the chicken. Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Assembling the Sandwiches

Now comes the fun part - assembling the sandwiches! Start by toasting your favorite sandwich buns until they are golden brown and crispy. Next, spread a generous amount of mayonnaise or aioli on both sides of the bun. Layer the grilled Char Siu chicken on top, followed by your choice of toppings such as fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles. Finally, top it all off with the other half of the bun.

Serving and Enjoying

Once your Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches are assembled, it's time to dig in! These sandwiches are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The succulent and flavorful chicken paired with the crunchy bun and refreshing toppings create a harmonious combination that will leave you craving for more. Serve them alongside some crispy french fries or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of Chinese and Western flavors. The Char Siu sauce adds a unique twist to the traditional chicken sandwich, taking it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you're a fan of Chinese cuisine or simply looking to spice up your sandwich game, these Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches are a must-try!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use pork instead of chicken for Char Siu Sandwiches?: Yes, absolutely! Char Siu sauce works equally well with pork, and you can easily substitute it for the chicken in this recipe. Simply follow the same marinating and grilling instructions.
. Can I make Char Siu sauce at home?: Yes, you can make Char Siu sauce at home using a combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, Chinese five-spice powder, and red bean curd. There are many recipes available online that you can try.
. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling to ensure even cooking.
. What other toppings can I add to my Char Siu Chicken Sandwich?: You can get creative with your toppings! Some delicious options include caramelized onions, spicy sriracha mayo, sliced avocado, or even a fried egg.
. Can I use the Char Siu sauce as a dipping sauce?: Absolutely! Char Siu sauce makes a fantastic dipping sauce for grilled meats, dumplings, or even as a glaze for roasted vegetables.
. Can I use store-bought Char Siu sauce?: Yes, if you don't have the time or ingredients to make your own Char Siu sauce, you can use store-bought sauce. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
. Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?: While it's best to assemble the sandwiches fresh, you can prepare the grilled chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the chicken in a hot skillet or microwave before assembling the sandwiches.
. Are Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches spicy?: No, Char Siu Chicken Sandwiches are not typically spicy. The Char Siu sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor without being overly spicy. However, if you prefer some heat, you can always add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapenos to your sandwich.