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Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from the island's rich cultural history, showcasing influences from Polynesia, Asia, and beyond. The islands are renowned not only for their stunning landscapes but also for their diverse culinary offerings, each dish telling a story that reflects the melting pot of cultures that have settled in Hawaii. One such dish that embodies the essence of Hawaiian cooking is Shoyu Chicken, a beloved staple in households across the islands.

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Discover the flavors of the islands with this delicious Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken recipe! Made with juicy chicken thighs marinated in a blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, this dish is bursting with sweetness and umami. Simply sear, bake, and serve over rice for a satisfying meal. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a tropical escape on your plate! 🍍🍗
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Ingredients
  

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

1 cup soy sauce (preferably shoyu)

1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)

1/2 cup brown sugar

4 cloves garlic, minced

2-inch piece of ginger, grated

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well blended.

    Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.

      Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

        Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. In a large oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

          Flip the chicken thighs over and pour the reserved marinade over them. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

            Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

              Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. If desired, transfer the sauce to a small saucepan and simmer on the stove to thicken slightly.

                Serve the Hawaiian shoyu chicken over cooked rice, drizzling some of the thickened sauce on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4