Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can top the flavor-packed goodness of Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken. I remember the first time I had this dish – it was a warm summer evening at a friend’s backyard barbecue. The aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill filled the air, and I was instantly drawn in. The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors from the shoyu sauce, paired with tender, juicy chicken, was unlike anything I had tasted before. I knew I had to recreate this amazing dish at home!

Everything You Need for Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

When preparing Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken, the synergy of the ingredients is important. The combination of flavors creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Here are the essential ingredients that make this recipe sing:

• 1 cup soy sauce – This forms the base of the marinade, providing salty and umami notes.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelization when cooked.
• 1 cup water – Helps to dilute the marinade and keep the chicken moist.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup chopped white onion – Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger – Provides a warm spice and depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Introduces a subtle herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – For those who like a little heat.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds an extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 5 tablespoons of water – Thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 1 whole cut-up chicken – The star of the show, providing protein and heartiness.
• 4 sliced green onions – For garnish, adding color and a fresh bite.

Making This Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Cooking Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is an experience that brings the kitchen to life with wonderful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps for making this delectable dish.

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s always best to have everything at your fingertips to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. In a large pot, combine all of the sauce ingredients except for the cornstarch. This is where the magic begins!
2. Bring your pot over high heat and let it come to a boil. As you watch the bubbles form, stir constantly to ensure all the ingredients blend together harmoniously. Boil for about 30 seconds; you want to develop that rich flavor right from the start.
3. Once the sauce is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the cut-up chicken. Make sure it’s submerged in the sauce, allowing those wonderful flavors to infuse into the meat. Cook the chicken for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until it’s cooked thoroughly, checking for the right temperature.
4. After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it on a serving dish. It’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute.
5. Spoon off any excess fat that may have floated to the top of your sauce. This helps to keep your dish light and enjoyable.
6. Bring the sauce back to a boil and let it reduce for about 10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and concentrates the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
7. Next, add your dissolved cornstarch to the boiling sauce. Stir it in while whisking continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. You’ll notice it becomes glossy and rich.
8. Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s well coated with the thickened sauce. This is the moment of joy when you see the transformation occur!
9. Finally, place the chicken on a serving dish once again and garnish with fresh green onions. Their bright color and mild flavor add the perfect finishing touch to your dish.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are plenty of ways to make Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken your own. Here are some tips to consider:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve it with a side of steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Variation: Experiment with adding pineapple chunks during cooking for a sweet tropical twist!
• Serving Size: This recipe serves six generously, but you can easily scale it up or down depending on your needs.

Serve This Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken With

To create a complete and satisfying meal, consider pairing Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken with the following:

• White rice: A classic choice, the fluffy texture of rice soaks up the delicious sauce wonderfully.
• Steamed broccoli: The bright green color and crunchy texture complement the tender chicken perfectly.
• Asian-style coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds a crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini can add a vibrant touch to your plate.
• Fresh pineapple slices: The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the salty, savory notes of the chicken.
• Crispy wontons: Serve as an appetizer or side for some added crunch and a delightful contrast to the main dish.
• Salad: A light salad with a sesame dressing can be a perfect addition to cut through the richness.
• Occasions: This dish is fantastic for casual family dinners, summer barbecues, or even festive gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that is both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, and its versatility allows for many delicious variations. I encourage you to give it a try – you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and savory that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory. With tender chicken coated in a rich, flavorful sauce, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to please everyone at your table. Don't wait – make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Hawaiian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup chopped white onion
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in water
• 1 whole cut-up chicken
• 4 slices green onions

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Large Skillet

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s always best to have everything at your fingertips to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. In a large pot, combine all of the sauce ingredients except for the cornstarch. This is where the magic begins!
2. Bring your pot over high heat and let it come to a boil. As you watch the bubbles form, stir constantly to ensure all the ingredients blend together harmoniously. Boil for about 30 seconds; you want to develop that rich flavor right from the start.
3. Once the sauce is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the cut-up chicken. Make sure it's submerged in the sauce, allowing those wonderful flavors to infuse into the meat. Cook the chicken for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until it's cooked thoroughly, checking for the right temperature.
4. After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it on a serving dish. It's important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute.
5. Spoon off any excess fat that may have floated to the top of your sauce. This helps to keep your dish light and enjoyable.
6. Bring the sauce back to a boil and let it reduce for about 10 minutes. This step thickens the sauce and concentrates the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
7. Next, add your dissolved cornstarch to the boiling sauce. Stir it in while whisking continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. You’ll notice it becomes glossy and rich.
8. Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s well coated with the thickened sauce. This is the moment of joy when you see the transformation occur!
9. Finally, place the chicken on a serving dish once again and garnish with fresh green onions. Their bright color and mild flavor add the perfect finishing touch to your dish.

Notes

• Tip 1: Be sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Test for the temperature where the chicken is the thickest.
• Tip 2: This chicken recipe will work for any chicken part: chicken breasts, boneless skinless thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken wings!
• Tip 3: Concerned about the amount of sodium? Use low sodium soy sauce.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.