Discover culinary simplicity with these Easy One-Pan Chinese-Style Baked Chicken Thighs – a mouthwatering masterpiece crafted with just 5 ingredients! Elevate your dinner game effortlessly, as these succulent thighs transform into a sticky, flavorful delight. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious – the perfect recipe for those craving a taste of authentic Chinese flavors without the fuss. Let your taste buds rejoice with every bite!
Why you want to make this recipe
- Simplicity Reigns: With just four basic ingredients, this Chinese-style baked Chicken Thighs recipe keeps things effortlessly simple. No need for a complicated grocery list – just grab what you need and let the magic happen!
- One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes! This dish comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Spend less time scrubbing and more time savoring the tasty results.
- Flavor Explosion: Brace yourself for flavor! The combination of these few ingredients creates a sticky, delicious coating on the chicken thighs that'll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. It's a flavor explosion without the fuss.
My husband always tells people he goes to a great new restaurant every night. That may be mostly true, but not every night. Somedays I want something quick and easy. This recipe for Easy One-Pan Chinese-style baked Chicken Thighs is one I go to regularly. Both kids and adults enjoy the sweet and savory notes that come from the combo of Chinese 5-Spice and Hoisin Sauce (also lovingly referred to as Chinese BBQ sauce). These are so simple to prepare and so good to eat. A perfect easy weeknight dinner.
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Ingredients and Substitutions
Easy peasy less than 5 ingredients
- Bone-In chicken thighs - preferably with the skin if you want that nice crispy sticky skin (and I know that the kids do). If you don't then you can get skinless chicken thighs, but do try to keep the bone as it adds both moisture and flavor.
- Chinese 5-Spice Powder - Contains all the spices you need. It counts as 1 ingredient. If you need to make your own then it will be 5 ingredients which include cinnamon, star anise, fennel, Sichuan pepper, and cloves.
- Hoisin Sauce - Also known as Chinese BBQ sauce. This is very sticky. Need a substitute? Here are some possible substitutions for Hoisin. Again, if you use a bottled Hoisin then it counts as 1 ingredient. My preferred brand of Hoisin is Lee Kum Kee.
- Salt and Pepper
- If you want to finish these properly, add some sliced green onion tops and toasted sesame seeds, but they don't count as "ingredients".
FAQ
Yes. While I think one of the best parts of the recipe is the resulting crunchy sticky skin, you can, to save calories, make this recipe with skinless thighs. Adjust the cooking temperature to 375ºF (190ºC) and use a roasting pan that has at least a 1-inch rim to keep the meat moist.
Did I mention sticky? If you choose not to line your pan with foil, and spray it with cooking spray (for easy release) then you will probably rather throw it away than try and wash it. Even if it says non-stick.
Cook to between 175 and 185 F. This range will get you well above the minimum safe temperature and maximize the poultry's flavor potential.
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line a sheet pan with foil and spray with cooking spray. Heat the oven to 400ºF (205ºC).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, sprinkle on the 5-spice powder.
- Brush on the hoisin sauce. This step also helps spread the 5-spice powder over the entire top of the thighs.
- Place the pan in the middle rack of the oven, and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Top with thinly sliced green onion tops and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
What to serve with Easy One-Pan Chinese Style Baked Chicken Thighs?
Wine Recommendations
Imagine the delightful dance of flavors when you pair your Chinese-Style Baked Chicken Thighs with a glass of Viognier. The vibrant and aromatic qualities of Viognier bring a touch of floral and fruity notes, beautifully enhancing the savory and sticky elements of the dish.
If you would prefer a red wine then look no further than a Pinot Noir. The subtle earthy notes of the Pinot Noir complement the savory flavors of the dish, while its bright acidity cuts through the sticky glaze, balancing each bite.
Want more easy one-pan meals?
Chinese-Style Baked Chicken Thighs (The recipe)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs or legs and thighs combined
- 1 teaspoon 5-spice powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup hoisin sauce (I like Lee Kum Kee)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Thinly sliced green onion tops (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400º F. Line a cookie sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray or lightly oil.
- Season the chicken thighs (with or without skin) with the 5-spice powder and salt and pepper. Brush with hoisin sauce and place in the oven.
- Bake for 30 - 40 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced onion on top, if desired.
- **UPDATE** - One of the best parts of this recipe, as written, is the crunchy crisp delicious skin- it's almost candy-like. But since we have been trying to eat leaner more often I've been playing with this recipe a bit to make it cook better without the skin. If going skinless, lower the oven temperature to 375º and use a pan that has at least a 1-inch rim about it. This keeps the meat much moister while allowing the sauce to cook on to the meat.
Chris G says
The five spice was a little strong for me, but my girlfriend loves it. Super easy and delicious
Linda Baker says
5-spice can be strong, maybe use a little less next time? At least on your pieces. Cheers ~ Lindy
Linda Omura says
Looks great and easy to make. Can't wait to try it!
LindySez says
So easy Linda, and so good. Enjoy it!