Step 1

In a large dish or bowl and combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic, salt, white pepper, and red food colouring (if using).

Step 2

Place the chicken thighs in the dish and make sure the chicken is well-coated in the char siu marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours. Ideally, you want to marinate for as long as possible, preferable overnight for maximum flavour.

Step 3

Once you're ready to air fry the chicken, brush the air fryer basket with oil (if needed to prevent the chicken from sticking) preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes.

Step 4

Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd them or overlap the chicken.

Step 5

Get a small brush handy, and keep any reserved marinade.

Step 6

Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes at 180°c (350F), then using tongs, flip the chicken over. Brush the chicken thighs liberally with the reserved marinade, then continue to cook for another 5 minutes. Before flipping again and brushing the marinade over the chicken again. Cook for another five minutes.

Step 7

Check if the chicken is cooked - you'll also start seeing the edges begin to go a little crispy. Brush the chicken with any leftover marinade for an extra glossy, caramelised finish and air fry for just a few minutes more.

Step 8

Slice the chicken, and then serve with rice and green vegetables.