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Did you know that Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is one of the most beloved island comfort foods, yet many people struggle to achieve its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors? Whether you’re a home cook looking to bring the taste of Hawaii to your kitchen or a food enthusiast eager to try something new, mastering this dish is easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven simple steps to create a flavorful, tender, and authentic Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients List

To make authentic Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – 2 lbs (for maximum juiciness and flavor)
Soy sauce (shoyu) – 1 cup (use low-sodium for a healthier version)
Brown sugar – ½ cup (for the perfect balance of sweetness)
Ginger (fresh, grated) – 1 tablespoon (adds a warm, zesty flavor)
Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves (enhances the umami taste)
Water – 1 cup (helps create the rich sauce base)
Mirin (optional) – 2 tablespoons (adds depth and a touch of sweetness)
Green onions (chopped) – for garnish
Sesame seeds – for extra crunch
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a spicy kick

Substitutions:

Use chicken breasts for a leaner version.
Replace brown sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness.
Swap mirin with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar if unavailable.

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Compared to traditional braised chicken recipes that take over an hour, this Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken saves you about 20% of the cooking time without compromising on flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water in a large bowl. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. If using mirin, add it now.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Baste

Cook for 35-40 minutes, occasionally basting the chicken with the sauce to ensure even flavor absorption.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the pot during the last 5 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Top the cooked chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an authentic touch.

Enjoy!

Serve over steamed rice with a side of macaroni salad for the full Hawaiian plate lunch experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fats: 12g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 1g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Use skinless chicken thighs to reduce fat content.
Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to lower sodium levels.
Replace brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables.
Add a side of grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
Serve in a poke bowl with fresh greens for a modern take.

hawaiian-style-shoyu-chicken-ingredienne

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the marination – it’s crucial for flavor penetration.
Boiling instead of simmering – can make the chicken tough.
Using high-sodium soy sauce – may result in an overly salty dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze in portioned bags for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently over low heat to maintain tenderness.

Conclusion

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to make. By following these seven simple steps, you can bring an authentic taste of Hawaii into your home. Try this recipe today, leave a comment below with your experience, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs provide more juiciness and flavor. If using breast meat, reduce cooking time by 10 minutes.

What can I use instead of mirin?
Substitute with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

What side dishes go well with this?
Steamed rice, macaroni salad, and stir-fried vegetables make excellent pairings.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken and let us know how it turned out!