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Hawaiian cuisine captures the essence of the islands, offering a delightful array of flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Among the myriad of dishes that grace Hawaiian tables, Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken stands out as a beloved classic. Its unique blend of sweet and savory elements makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also tells a story of cultural exchange and culinary creativity.

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Indulge in the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken! This delicious recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. After searing for that perfect golden crisp, bake it to perfection for a comforting meal. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is best served with steamed rice and grilled pineapple. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, bring the taste of Hawaii to your table!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

1 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup pineapple juice

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup water

2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.

    Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, setting the marinade aside for later. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help crisp the skin.

      Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, place the chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. (You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.)

        Bake the Chicken: In a large oven-safe dish, arrange the seared chicken thighs. Pour the reserved marinade and water over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

          Cook in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and the sauce has thickened slightly.

            Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

              Enjoy! Serve with steamed rice and a side of grilled pineapple for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 4 servings