The aroma of Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken wafts through the air, a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory that makes your mouth water in anticipation. Imagine succulent chicken pieces marinated to perfection, each bite bursting with flavor, taking you straight to a tropical paradise.
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my last Hawaiian vacation where I feasted on similar delights. Nothing brings people together like a plate of this delightful chicken at family gatherings or lazy Sunday dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The fusion of sweet and savory flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Enjoy it with rice or salad for versatile meal options
One memorable evening, my friends tasted this recipe for the first time and declared me the “Shoyu Chicken Queen.” Their joy was contagious!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These juicy thighs soak in the marinade beautifully, ensuring maximum flavor with every bite.
Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic for a robust taste; fresh cloves bring a wonderful aroma to the dish.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness while still achieving that umami kick.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely caramelization during cooking, enhancing both flavor and color.
Ginger: Grated ginger infuses a warm spiciness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions offer a fresh crunch and a pop of color as a garnish.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle brings an aromatic nuttiness that elevates the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Pineapple Juice: A splash adds tropical sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, pineapple juice, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Marinate Your Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and ensure each piece is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Sizzle Away!: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear thighs until golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes per side.
Add Flavorful Sauce : Pour reserved marinade into your skillet after removing chicken. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened and fragrant.
Finish Cooking Chicken : Return chicken to the skillet with simmering sauce. Cook covered for an additional 10-15 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
Garnish & Serve : Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. Pair with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables for an unforgettable meal!
Now grab your apron and get ready to enjoy some delicious Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken!
You Must Know
- Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The blend of salty, sweet, and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen
- Perfect for family gatherings, this recipe will make everyone feel like they’re on a tropical vacation
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight for intense flavor. Next, sear it for golden brown perfection before slow-cooking to achieve tenderness and juiciness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add pineapple chunks for a fruity twist. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for added crunch and presentation.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight
- This step ensures every bite bursts with deliciousness
- When searing, avoid overcrowding the pan to get that perfect golden crust
- Lastly, taste as you go; adjusting flavors can elevate your dish significantly!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter and delicious food flowed freely. It’s those moments that make cooking worthwhile and enjoyable.
FAQ
What is Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a sweet and savory marinated chicken dish popular in Hawaii.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! This marinade works well with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Juicy, marinated chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce, making this dish perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, pineapple juice, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish. Pour marinade over chicken and coat well. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear thighs for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour reserved marinade into the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Finish Cooking: Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with rice or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Simmering
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (113g)
- Calories: 263
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 642mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
