Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Short Description

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a flavorful, sweet-savory dish featuring tender, marinated chicken thighs baked in a rich soy-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Perfectly caramelized and juicy, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, macaroni salad, or grilled pineapple for an authentic Hawaiian meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Hawaiian flavors – A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor – Uses pantry staples for an easy yet delicious meal.
• Juicy & tender chicken – Marinating ensures deep, rich flavors.
• Versatile cooking options – Bake, grill, or simmer on the stovetop.
• Pairs well with classic Hawaiian sides – Rice, macaroni salad, or pineapple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp water
• ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• ½ yellow onion, minced
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl or ziplock bag, mix together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, onion, and red pepper flakes.
2. Stir well until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

3. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup and arrange the marinated chicken skin-side up.
7. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes until the skin is slightly crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11. Spoon the thickened sauce from the baking dish over the chicken.
12. Serve with steamed rice, macaroni salad, or grilled pineapple.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-5
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 2-24 hours
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Extra Tender Chicken: Marinate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
• Grilled Shoyu Chicken: Cook over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
• Sticky Glazed Chicken: Simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan until thickened and use as a glaze.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well but may cook 5-10 minutes faster.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces and thickens.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.

Is this dish traditionally grilled?

Shoyu chicken is often simmered or baked, but grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor.

Can I make this dish sweeter?

Increase the brown sugar to ⅓ cup or add 1 tbsp honey for extra sweetness.

What sides pair well with this?

Serve with steamed rice, macaroni salad, grilled pineapple, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use dark soy sauce?

Dark soy sauce is too intense; stick to low-sodium soy sauce for the best balance.

How do I get crispy skin?

Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking or pan-sear before baking for extra crispiness.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw completely before marinating for best results.

What’s the difference between Shoyu Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken?

Shoyu chicken is lighter and more savory, while teriyaki chicken has a sweeter, thicker glaze.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a sweet, savory, and tender dish packed with island flavors. Whether baked, grilled, or simmered, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Serve it with classic Hawaiian sides for an authentic, restaurant-quality experience at home!

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