Irresistible Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken Recipe

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a culinary adventure that takes your taste buds on a tropical getaway without leaving your kitchen. Imagine juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory soy sauce blend, sizzling away as the aroma wafts through your home like a warm Hawaiian breeze. The flavors dance together, creating an irresistible dish that brings sunshine to even the cloudiest days.

Every time I make Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken, I’m transported back to family barbecues where laughter filled the air, and my uncle would try (and fail) to flip burgers with one hand while holding a plate of this delicious chicken in the other. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish always steals the show, promising an explosion of flavor that will have your guests begging for seconds.

Ingredients for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These are ideal for marinating and roasting because they retain moisture beautifully during cooking.
• Fresh Ginger: Use grated ginger for that zingy kick that adds depth to the marinade.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves lend robust flavor; you can never have enough garlic!
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can adjust the saltiness to your taste.
• Brown Sugar: This balances out the salty soy sauce with its rich sweetness; it’s like a cozy hug for your chicken.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; this oil infuses a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

For the Garnish:

• Sliced Green Onions: These add color and crunch; sprinkle them generously before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade

In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk until sugar dissolves.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add bone-in chicken thighs to the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap or place in a resealable bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour (but overnight is even better).

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get ready—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!

Step 4: Arrange Your Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour half of the marinade over the top.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C). Baste occasionally with remaining marinade.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer cooked chicken to plates and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with sliced green onions for that finishing touch!

Now you’ve got yourself some luscious Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken! Serve it up with fluffy rice or grilled veggies, and let those flavors take you on a delightful vacation right at home.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in the shoyu sauce for at least an hour to infuse those delicious flavors. Sear the chicken to get that golden-brown crust, then bake until juicy perfection, all while letting those heavenly scents waft through your kitchen.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken thighs for drumsticks or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add fresh ginger or garlic for an extra kick, or toss in some pineapple chunks for that sweet Hawaiian twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, keeping that succulent flavor intact.

Sometimes when I whip up this dish, my friends ask if they can take leftovers home! That’s when I know I’ve hit culinary gold with my Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken recipe!

FAQs

What is Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a flavorful dish that features chicken marinated in a savory mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. This dish reflects the culinary influences of Hawaiian culture, which combines Asian flavors with local ingredients. It is typically grilled or baked until tender and juicy, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and barbecues. The sweet and salty marinade not only enhances the chicken but also results in a delightful glaze that caramelizes during cooking.

How do you serve Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?

You can serve Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken in various ways to complement its rich flavors. A common approach is to pair it with steamed rice or coconut rice, which balances the savory notes of the dish. Adding a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables provides a refreshing contrast. For an authentic Hawaiian twist, consider serving it alongside macaroni salad or pineapple slices. These accompaniments elevate the dining experience and create a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Can you use other meats for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?

Yes, you can substitute other meats for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken if desired. While chicken thighs are traditional, pork chops or beef short ribs can also absorb the delicious marinade well. Adjusting cooking times may be necessary to ensure your chosen meat cooks thoroughly. Additionally, using tofu for a vegetarian version allows those who prefer plant-based options to enjoy this flavorful dish. Experimenting with different proteins can lead to unique variations while retaining the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.

How long does Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken last in the fridge?

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to four days when stored properly in an airtight container. To maximize freshness, allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating it. When reheating, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safety and quality. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers; they can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.

Conclusion for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. Its combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses tenderness into the chicken. Whether served at family dinners or summer barbecues, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its rich taste and beautiful presentation. Remember to experiment with sides like rice or salads for a complete meal experience that captures the essence of Hawaii’s culinary heritage. Enjoy this delightful recipe as part of your home cooking adventures!

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Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken

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Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii straight to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues, serve it with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour (overnight is best).
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken skin-side up in a baking dish and pour half of the marinade over it.
5. Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting occasionally with remaining marinade.
6. Transfer cooked chicken to plates, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add pineapple chunks to the marinade for an authentic Hawaiian twist.