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Shoyu Chicken

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Shoyu Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish where tender chicken thighs are simmered in a savory, sweet, and salty soy sauce-based marinade, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat perfect for serving over rice.

Ingredients

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  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup soy sauce (shoyu)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add chicken thighs to the pot, reduce heat to low, and cover.
  4. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to coat in the sauce.
  5. Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Serve chicken hot over steamed rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

  • Boneless, skinless thighs can be used for a quicker version, but bone-in gives better flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness by reducing or increasing the brown sugar to taste.
  • Leftovers are even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity twist.

Nutrition