There’s something irresistible about Chinese BBQ pork—its glossy, caramelized crust, the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that keeps you reaching for more. Whether it’s the iconic char siu with its ruby-red glaze, sticky honey-roasted ribs, or crispy siu yuk (crackling pork belly), these dishes bring bold, restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen without complicated steps.
This list is all about big taste with minimal fuss. Imagine tender pork shoulder marinated in hoisin and five-spice, roasted until sticky and fragrant, or juicy spare ribs lacquered in a garlicky honey-soy glaze. Maybe you’re craving something smoky from the grill, like cumin-rubbed pork skewers with a fiery chili kick, or a quick stir-fry loaded with charred edges and tangy sauce. We’ve got you covered with recipes that work for weeknights, weekend feasts, and everything in between—plus pro tips for nailing that signature sticky-sweet finish every time.
From classic Cantonese favorites to Szechuan-inspired street food bites, these dishes prove that deep, layered flavors don’t have to mean hours of prep. Fire up your oven, grill, or wok—it’s time to transform humble pork into something extraordinary.
Spicy Szechuan BBQ Pork Belly
Spicy Szechuan BBQ Pork Belly is a delicious dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of sweet and spicy marinades brings out the richness of the pork belly, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s both savory and thrilling. Plus, it’s quite easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
This recipe highlights the unique Szechuan spices that elevate the pork belly to a whole new level. You can enjoy it as an appetizer or serve it as a main dish with rice or noodles. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started!
Hoisin BBQ Pork Tacos
Hoisin BBQ pork tacos bring a delightful twist to your dinner table! These tacos are packed with a savory and slightly sweet flavor that’s sure to please everyone. The rich hoisin sauce pairs perfectly with tender pork, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. Plus, they’re quick and easy to assemble, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Perfectly complemented by fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are not only tasty but also vibrant. Serve them up with your favorite sides for a complete meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine sliced pork with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place the cooked pork into the warm tortillas, and top with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Skewers
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Skewers are a delightful combination of juicy pork and the sweet, tangy flavor of teriyaki sauce, perfectly balanced with fresh pineapple chunks. This dish offers a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a fantastic option for any barbecue or family dinner.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. The skewers are not just easy to prepare; they also bring a vibrant presentation that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine the pork cubes with teriyaki sauce and olive oil. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated pork, pineapple chunks, bell pepper squares, and red onion wedges onto the skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Season and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
Honey Soy Glazed Pork Chops
Honey soy glazed pork chops are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
The glaze adds a beautiful caramelization to the pork chops, making them juicy and tender. Each bite is packed with flavor, enhanced by the perfect balance of honey and soy sauce. Whether you serve them with rice or a fresh salad, these pork chops are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Marinate the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Pork Chops: Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy!
Char Siu: Cantonese BBQ Pork
Char Siu is a popular Cantonese dish known for its sweet and savory flavors. This BBQ pork is marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and five-spice powder, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a glossy finish. It’s an easy recipe that can be made at home, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
The standout feature of Char Siu is its amazing caramelized crust, which adds an irresistible texture to each bite. It pairs well with rice, noodles, or can be enjoyed on its own. Give this beloved dish a try, and you’ll find that it’s simpler to make than you might think!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into long strips
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (or sherry)
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, five-spice powder, garlic, sesame oil, and rice wine until well combined.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork strips in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up.
- Bake the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through.
- Broil for Finish: For a caramelized finish, turn on the broiler and broil the pork for an additional 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Slice and Serve: Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Sweet and Sour BBQ Pork Skewers
Sweet and Sour BBQ Pork Skewers are a delightful mix of tangy and savory flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. These skewers combine tender pieces of pork with vibrant bell peppers, all coated in a luscious sweet and sour sauce. They are perfect for summer grilling or a fun family dinner.
This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal prep time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this tasty dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wood or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Add the pork cubes and stir to coat. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread marinated pork and bell pepper pieces onto the skewers, alternating between pork and peppers.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your sweet and sour BBQ pork skewers!
Five-Spice Pork Ribs
Five-Spice Pork Ribs are a delightful dish that combines the savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors typical of Chinese cuisine. These ribs are tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With a simple preparation and a short list of ingredients, they are perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
The five-spice blend adds a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to whip these up for a weekend barbecue or a family dinner. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water to create a marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the pork ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover with another piece of foil. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Remove the top foil and brush the ribs with more marinade or barbecue sauce. Broil on high for about 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Garlic and Ginger BBQ Pork Tenderloin
This Garlic and Ginger BBQ Pork Tenderloin is a winner for any meal. With a perfect balance of garlic and ginger flavors, it’s both tangy and savory, creating a delightful taste experience. The best part? It’s simple to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The marinated tenderloin is juicy and tender, perfect for serving with rice or fresh vegetables. Just a few ingredients come together to make this dish a crowd-pleaser that feels fancy without all the fuss. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Cook the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and grill for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Slice: Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Mango BBQ Pork Bowl
The Mango BBQ Pork Bowl brings a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Tender pork is marinated in a tangy barbecue sauce and paired with fresh mango, creating a dish that excites the taste buds with every bite.
This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice and top with colorful veggies for a vibrant meal that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, cubed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 mango, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup snap peas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine the cubed pork and barbecue sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pork: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated pork for about 10-12 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and snap peas. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Assemble the Bowl: Place cooked rice at the bottom of a bowl, add the cooked pork, sautéed veggies, and top with diced mango.
- Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor before serving.
BBQ Pork and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This BBQ Pork and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight meal that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of tender BBQ pork and colorful vegetables makes for a satisfying dish that’s both tasty and easy to prepare.
The sweet and savory BBQ sauce adds a delightful glaze to the stir-fry, enhancing the natural flavors of the pork and veggies. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound BBQ pork, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced BBQ pork and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the chopped bell peppers, sliced carrot, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Pour in the soy sauce and mix well, ensuring everything is coated. Cook for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Maple Glazed BBQ Pork Sandwich
This maple glazed BBQ pork sandwich is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy! With tender, juicy pork glazed in a sweet and tangy sauce, each bite is a mouthful of yum. It’s perfect for a casual meal and surprisingly easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The combination of the sweet maple glaze and the savory BBQ sauce creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile. Paired with crunchy coleslaw and served on a soft bun, this sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Plus, it takes minimal prep time, so you can enjoy big flavors without the fuss!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- Optional: additional BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: In a slow cooker, combine the pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the pork.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Pile the shredded pork onto each bun, top with coleslaw, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious maple glazed BBQ pork sandwiches with your favorite sides!
Crispy BBQ Pork Buns
Crispy BBQ pork buns are a delightful treat that combines fluffy, steamed dough with a savory filling of tender BBQ pork. Each bite is a burst of flavor, featuring hints of sweetness and spice that make these buns irresistible. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack on your own.
This recipe is fairly simple, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned cooks. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup BBQ pork, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and vegetable oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine chopped BBQ pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Mix well.
- Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle, place a spoonful of the pork filling in the center, and pinch the edges to seal the bun.
- Steam the Buns: Place the buns in a steamer lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them. Steam over boiling water for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Chinese BBQ pork is all about maximum impact with minimal effort, and these recipes deliver exactly that. Whether you’re a char siu purist or love experimenting with spicy, smoky twists, there’s a dish here to satisfy every craving. Keep it simple for a quick dinner or go all-out for a weekend spread—either way, you’ll end up with juicy, flavor-packed pork that’s way better than takeout. Ready to get cooking? Your next crave-worthy meal starts now.
