Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a delightful dish that will whisk your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a savory-sweet concoction of soy sauce and garlic, creating a mouthwatering aroma that dances through your kitchen.
Picture this: you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, the sun is setting, and the tantalizing smell of Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken fills the air, making everyone’s mouths water in anticipation. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings people together, perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Visually appealing with its glossy glaze, it looks as good as it tastes.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, in tacos, or even on salads!
Ingredients for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are ideal for their juiciness and flavor retention during cooking.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a wonderful sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly.
- Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger adds a zesty kick and depth to the marinade.
- Garlic: Minced garlic gives an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
- Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil brings nutty richness that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide freshness and color as a garnish.
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: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Add boneless skinless chicken thighs into the marinade; ensure they are well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Fire up your grill or preheat your oven to broil. If using an oven, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Grill or Broil the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade (but don’t throw away that liquid gold). Place chicken thighs on the grill or under your broiler. Cook for about six to eight minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 4: Create Sauce from Marinade
Meanwhile, pour leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for about five minutes until slightly thickened—this will be your finishing sauce.
Step 5: Serve with Style
Once cooked through, transfer chicken thighs to plates and drizzle with your homemade sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flair.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Dig in! Pair this delightful chicken with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that transports you straight to Hawaii.
This Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is not just dinner; it’s like taking a mini-vacation without leaving your home kitchen! So fire up those grills or ovens and get ready to impress your friends and family with this unforgettable dish!
You Must Know
- This Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken marinade is more than just a flavor explosion; it simplifies meal prep like a pro.
- Customize the ingredients based on your pantry staples, and watch the vibrant colors and aromas steal the show at dinner time.
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in your Hawaiian-Style Shoyu marinade to let those flavors deepen. Sear the chicken until golden brown, then simmer in the remaining marinade for juicy perfection. Meanwhile, whip up some rice or veggies to serve alongside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or pork if you’re feeling adventurous. Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist or sprinkle some sesame seeds before serving for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor infusion; it’s worth every minute.
- Always sear your chicken before simmering; this locks in juiciness and adds a beautiful color. Experiment with additional seasonings like ginger or garlic powder to elevate your dish even further.
I remember the first time I made Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a taste! Their rave reviews made me feel like a culinary superstar that day.
FAQs:
What is Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a flavorful dish that features chicken marinated in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. This combination of ingredients creates a sweet and savory profile that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii. Traditionally served with rice or steamed vegetables, this dish brings a taste of the islands to your table. Its easy preparation makes it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.
How do I make Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
To prepare Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken, start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar for at least one hour. After marinating, grill or bake the chicken until it’s cooked through and has a delicious glaze. Serve it over white rice or alongside salad for a complete meal. The key to this recipe is allowing enough time for the flavors to meld while cooking the chicken until tender and juicy.
Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various cuts of chicken for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken. Bone-in thighs provide extra flavor and moisture, while boneless breasts offer convenience and quicker cooking times. Feel free to experiment with wings or drumsticks as well. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the cut you choose to ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Consider serving it with coconut rice or jasmine rice to complement its flavors. Grilled vegetables or a fresh tropical salad can also enhance your meal’s aesthetic and taste. Additionally, adding macaroni salad offers a traditional Hawaiian touch that balances the dish’s sweet and savory notes perfectly.
Conclusion for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken:
In conclusion, Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is an easy-to-make dish bursting with flavor from its unique marinade of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. This recipe suits any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. By pairing it with delicious sides like coconut rice or grilled vegetables, you create a well-rounded meal that transports your taste buds to Hawaii. Enjoy this delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of island cuisine!
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of island cooking with its savory-sweet flavors. Tender boneless chicken thighs are marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, resulting in a glossy glaze that’s perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. Serve it over rice or with grilled vegetables to create a complete meal that brings tropical vibes straight to your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or broiler. If using an oven, line a baking sheet with foil.
- Grill or Broil: Remove chicken from marinade and cook on the grill for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Create Sauce: In a saucepan, boil leftover marinade for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve: Drizzle finished sauce over chicken and garnish with green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (112g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For more flavor, marinate overnight. - Swap chicken for tofu or pork for variety. - Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
