Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken: The Ultimate Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken
Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a beloved dish that brings together the rich flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, creating a savory delight that is perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it a staple in many homes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to impress.
A Personal Story Behind My Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy delicious meals that reminded us of our Hawaiian roots. Shoyu Chicken was always a favorite, as it blended the comforting flavors of home with the warmth of family gatherings. Each bite brings back fond memories of laughter, love, and the joy of sharing a meal together.
What Makes This Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the depth of flavor that comes from marinating the chicken in a blend of soy sauce, honey, and ginger. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken thighs. The optional step of broiling the chicken at the end adds a deliciously crispy texture to the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 6-8 pieces chicken thigh, bone-in, skin-on
- ¾ cup soy sauce
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2-inch piece of ginger, crushed
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 4 stalks of green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel to help them absorb more flavor while cooking.
- In a large pot or deep pan over medium-high heat, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, crushed ginger, and crushed garlic. Stir to dissolve the sugar and honey.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the chicken simmer for 30-45 minutes until cooked through. Make sure to check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Optional step: Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a baking sheet. Broil the chicken in the oven at 500°F for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken skin becomes crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to the dish!
- Uncover the pot and let the sauce reduce over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
- Plate the chicken over rice, pour the reduced sauce over the chicken, and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
- Enjoy your delicious Shoyu Chicken!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken
Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a twist, try serving it with fried rice or even in a wrap with fresh lettuce and diced tomatoes. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients; adding a splash of pineapple juice can give the dish a sweet and tangy flair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Shoyu Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with noodles for a different twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 6-8
Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken
Equipment
- Large pot or deep pan For simmering the chicken.
- Baking sheet For broiling the chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 pieces chicken thigh, bone-in, skin-on
- 0.75 cup soy sauce
- 1.5 cups water
- 2 tbsp honey
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 inches ginger, crushed
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 4 stalks green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel to help them absorb more flavor while cooking.
- In a large pot or deep pan over medium-high heat, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, crushed ginger, and crushed garlic. Stir to dissolve the sugar and honey.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the chicken simmer for 30-45 minutes until cooked through. Make sure to check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Optional step: Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a baking sheet. Broil the chicken in the oven at 500°F for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken skin becomes crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to the dish!
- Uncover the pot and let the sauce reduce over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
- Plate the chicken over rice, pour the reduced sauce over the chicken, and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
- Enjoy your delicious Shoyu Chicken!