Shoyu Chicken is a beloved dish that originates from Hawaii, combining the savory richness of soy sauce with sweet and aromatic ingredients to create a flavorful, tender chicken dish. Easy to prepare and full of umami flavor, this recipe has become a staple in Hawaiian households and is now enjoyed around the world. Whether served with steamed rice, macaroni salad, or stir-fried vegetables, Shoyu Chicken delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
This article provides a detailed guide to making the perfect Shoyu Chicken, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to achieve authentic flavor.
What Is Shoyu Chicken?
“Shoyu” is the Japanese word for soy sauce, and in Hawaiian cuisine, Shoyu Chicken refers to chicken cooked in a soy sauce-based marinade. The dish typically features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs simmered slowly in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. The result is a sweet, salty, and deeply savory dish with tender meat that absorbs all the complex flavors of the sauce.
Ingredients for Shoyu Chicken
To prepare this delicious dish at home, you will need the following ingredients:
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2 to 2.5 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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1 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
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1 cup water
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Shoyu Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare an authentic Shoyu Chicken dish:
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Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well mixed. -
Add Chicken to Sauce:
Place the chicken thighs into a large pot or deep skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged or well coated. -
Simmer the Chicken:
Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption. -
Reduce the Sauce (Optional):
For a thicker glaze, remove the chicken once cooked and simmer the remaining sauce uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly. -
Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chicken hot over steamed white rice, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Shoyu Chicken
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Use dark meat like thighs or drumsticks for maximum flavor and tenderness.
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Marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking if time allows, for deeper flavor penetration.
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Adjust sweetness to your preference by increasing or reducing the amount of brown sugar.
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Add vegetables such as carrots or onions into the pot for extra texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Shoyu Chicken pairs well with classic Hawaiian sides such as:
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Steamed jasmine or sticky rice
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Hawaiian-style macaroni salad
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Sautéed bok choy or cabbage
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Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
This dish is ideal for casual family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep thanks to its simple preparation and ability to reheat well.
Conclusion
Shoyu Chicken is more than just a meal — it’s a comforting and flavorful dish that reflects the fusion of Asian and Hawaiian culinary traditions. With its rich soy-based sauce, tender chicken, and balanced taste, it continues to be a favorite for both home cooks and food lovers. Whether you’re exploring Hawaiian cuisine for the first time or looking to recreate a beloved classic, this Shoyu Chicken recipe is a perfect place to start.
Give it a try in your kitchen, and experience the savory-sweet harmony that makes this dish so irresistible.