Name: Savory Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken That’ll Wow Your Dinner Guests Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 5 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on); 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons water; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ginger (minced); 1/2 medium yellow onion (minced); 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Introduction

This Savory Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that will impress your dinner guests. Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich soy sauce mixture bring warmth and depth to every bite. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on taste.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of cooked white rice, topped with five pieces of glazed, grilled chicken thighs that have a shiny, dark amber color with charred spots. The chicken pieces are scattered evenly across the rice, each covered with a shiny sauce that glimmers under the light. Green onion slices are sprinkled over the chicken, adding a fresh green contrast, along with some white sesame seeds for texture. The bowl is resting on a white marbled surface next to a gray and white striped cloth, with a partial view of a yellow bowl holding more green onions nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on for rich flavor)
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce (use low sodium for balance)
2 tablespoons water (dilutes soy sauce)
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed for sweetness)
2 cloves garlic (minced for flavor)
1 tablespoon ginger (minced for warmth)
1/2 medium yellow onion (minced for sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional heat)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, onion, and crushed red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 2: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Step 3: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 5: Place the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over them.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, try finishing the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to crisp the skin.
Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Add pineapple chunks to the baking dish for a tropical twist that complements the marinade.
If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows three pieces of grilled chicken thighs covered in a thick, shiny brown sauce with charred spots on the skin. Bright green chopped scallions are scattered on top of the chicken, adding a fresh color contrast. The chicken sits on a white plate with a subtle dark rim, and some sauce has spread around the pieces, creating a rich, glossy pool. The plate rests on a wooden round board, which is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they cook faster and can dry out. Bake for 20-25 minutes and watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Is low sodium soy sauce necessary?

Low sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish from becoming too salty and balances the sweetness. You can use regular soy sauce but reduce added salt in any side dishes.