Shoyu Chicken

Shoyu Chicken is a classic Hawaiian dish that features tender, juicy chicken simmered in a flavorful soy sauce-based marinade infused with garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. This comforting and savory dish is commonly served over a bed of rice with a side of macaroni salad, making it a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and an easy weeknight meal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: A perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors.
• Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and steps make it ideal for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day.
• Authentic Taste: Brings the comforting flavors of Hawaii straight to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• Soy sauce (preferably shoyu or Japanese-style)
• Water
• Brown sugar
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated or minced
• Green onions, chopped
• Optional: sesame seeds or red pepper flakes for garnish

Directions

1. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl or pot, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
2. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into the marinade. Ensure they are submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Cook the Chicken: Transfer the chicken and marinade to a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Reduce the Sauce: Remove the chicken and let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Serve: Return the chicken to the pot or serve over hot steamed rice. Garnish with additional green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped chili peppers to the marinade.
• Sweeter Style: Increase brown sugar or add a splash of pineapple juice for a sweeter taste.
• Thicker Sauce: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) at the end to create a glaze.
• Grilled Option: Marinate the chicken and grill it for a charred, smoky version of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container with sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave with some sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

What is the difference between shoyu and soy sauce?

Shoyu is Japanese-style soy sauce. It’s typically brewed with wheat, giving it a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor compared to regular Chinese soy sauce.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier during the simmering process.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Place all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is optional but highly recommended for deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will help.

What sides go well with shoyu chicken?

Steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style macaroni salad are traditional. You can also serve with sautéed vegetables or pickled cucumbers.

Can I thicken the sauce?

Yes, after cooking the chicken, simmer the sauce uncovered or use a cornstarch slurry to create a thicker glaze.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and double-check other ingredients to make it gluten-free.

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Adjust seasoning to taste.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be tender when pierced with a fork.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Conclusion

Shoyu Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the essence of Hawaiian home cooking to your kitchen. With its deeply savory and slightly sweet sauce, it’s easy to see why this recipe is so well-loved. Whether served at a luau, a family dinner, or prepped for the week ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy every time.

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