If you’re looking for a delicious and heartwarming meal, shoyu chicken is your answer. This was one of my favorites growing up and a new favorite for my family. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a flavorful soy sauce marinade that creates a savory glaze with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
This recipe is all about simplicity and taste. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul. The aroma that fills your kitchen while this chicken cooks is simply irresistible, making it hard to wait for dinner time!
Whether you’re serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables, shoyu chicken stands out as a satisfying option. And don’t forget to drizzle some of that delectable sauce over your rice for an extra burst of flavor!
Understanding Shoyu Chicken
Shoyu chicken is a beloved dish that originates from Hawaii, showcasing the island’s culinary influences. It is a common dish at almost every Hawaii household. At its core, it features tender chicken thighs that are marinated to perfection in a soy sauce-based blend.
This marinade not only imparts flavor but also helps to keep the chicken juicy during the cooking process. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a balance of savory and sweet notes that elevate the dish.
Preparation and Marination
The secret to achieving flavorful shoyu chicken lies in the marination process. By allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade, the flavors penetrate deeply, transforming the meat into a delicious centerpiece. A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but letting it sit overnight will enhance the taste even further.
When marinating, make sure the chicken is well-coated, ensuring every bite is rich in flavor. Once marinated, the chicken is ready to be cooked, and the reserved marinade can be used for basting during baking.
Cooking the Chicken
Cooking shoyu chicken is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Preheating the oven is essential, as a hot environment ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. This dish can also be made on the stovetop.
After placing the chicken in the oven, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through will add an extra layer of flavor and help form a glossy glaze. Cooking until the chicken reaches the right internal temperature guarantees that it remains safe to eat while maintaining its mouthwatering juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Shoyu chicken shines when served over fluffy white rice, as the rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite fulfilling. Garnishing with chopped green onions adds a fresh crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
Pairing this meal with steamed vegetables not only adds vibrant color but also contributes essential nutrients, rounding out the meal perfectly. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, shoyu chicken is sure to please a crowd.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is a balanced choice, providing a good source of protein and carbohydrates. Each serving contains around 320 calories, making it a satisfying option without being overly indulgent.
The combination of chicken and rice delivers essential nutrients, and the addition of vegetables enhances the meal’s health benefits. Opting for skin-on chicken thighs not only adds flavor but also contributes healthy fats necessary for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Shoyu chicken is not only about flavor; it’s about bringing people together around a shared meal. It is a part of the taste of Hawaii. Its simplicity makes it accessible for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
With its rich history and delightful taste, this dish continues to be a cherished favorite in many households. As you prepare to enjoy shoyu chicken, embrace the warmth and joy it brings to the dining table.
Delicious Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Shoyu chicken is a classic Hawaiian dish featuring succulent chicken thighs marinated in a rich soy sauce blend. The chicken becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks, creating a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. It’s a perfect balance that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for better flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Reserve the marinade for later.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade halfway through cooking for added flavor.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the shoyu chicken over cooked rice, drizzled with extra sauce and garnished with chopped green onions.
- If you prefer to make it stovetop, you can place your ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil, next simmer for 45 minutes stirring occasionally. Either way results in a great hearty meal. Enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
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Natasha is a dedicated mother of four boys, living in the beautiful islands of Hawaii. With over 20 years of experience in the medical field, she has spent her career caring for others, but recently discovered a new passion—blogging. A foodie at heart, she loves experimenting in the kitchen and exploring new recipes, sharing her culinary adventures with others. Whether she’s writing about her experiences, discovering hidden gems in Hawaiian cuisine, or balancing the joys of motherhood, she embraces every moment with creativity and enthusiasm.