Name: Savory Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken: A One-Pot Wonder Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp neutral oil (can substitute with olive oil); 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (boneless thighs can be used for convenience); 1 tsp kosher salt (reduce amount slightly if using table salt); 2 inches ginger, peeled and thinly sliced (fresh ginger preferred); 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (avoid substitutes for best flavor); 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (coconut sugar is a good alternative); 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce (preferably Aloha brand); 1/2 cup water (plus 1 Tbsp, divided); 2 tsp cornstarch (can use arrowroot or tapioca starch); scallion, thinly sliced (optional)

As I rummaged through my pantry one evening, I stumbled upon an enticing combination of ingredients that sparked my culinary creativity—thus began my love affair with Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken. This dish, featuring tender chicken thighs glazed in a luscious, sweet soy sauce, is a true embodiment of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights. With just 15 minutes of prep time and everything cooking in one pot, it’s not just a breeze to make but also a delightful way to bring a taste of Hawaiian cuisine into your home. Plus, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone around the dinner table leaves with satisfied smiles. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this savory adventure!

Why is Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken special?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot dish requires just 15 minutes of prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a heavenly glaze that infuses each bite with robust flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its sweet, savory profile, this dish is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

Comfort Food Reimagined: Tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection mean you’ll experience the ultimate in comfort while relishing the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.

Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or serve alongside grains like quinoa for a nutritious upgrade, inspired by options like Grilled Chicken Broccoli or Fried Chicken Street.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe that transforms your dinner routine!

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Neutral oil – Perfect for sautéing the chicken and preventing sticking; olive oil works if you prefer something bolder.
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These provide rich flavor and moisture; for convenience, use boneless thighs but expect a different texture.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors; reduce the amount slightly if using regular table salt.

For the Sauce
• Ginger (2″ piece, peeled, thinly sliced) – Adds warmth and aromatic spice; fresh ginger is preferred for the best flavor.
• Garlic cloves (3, thinly sliced) – Brings depth and aroma; avoid substitutes as they might not capture the same essence.
• Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed) – Creates the sweet glaze that balances the soy sauce; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a lighter taste.
• Reduced-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup, preferably Aloha) – Forms the backbone of the glaze and aids in flavor; opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
• Water (1/2 cup plus 1 Tbsp, divided) – Helps thin the sauce for the perfect braising consistency.
• Cornstarch (2 tsp) – Thickens the sauce to a luscious glaze; consider arrowroot or tapioca starch for a similar effect.

For Garnish
• Scallion (optional, thinly sliced) – Adds a fresh touch when garnishing; can be omitted if not on hand.

Get ready to whip up this savory Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken that will have your kitchen smelling delightful and your family asking for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 2 minutes until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking. This oil will help prevent the chicken from sticking and create a golden crisp on the skin as we prepare this delicious Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the oil heats, season bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs generously with kosher salt. Carefully arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the cold skillet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. This technique allows the chicken to brown evenly and helps render the fat, creating a crispy exterior while unleashing flavorful juices into the dish.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Gradually heat the skillet to medium-high, allowing the chicken skin to render and become crispy over approximately 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken as the skin turns a beautiful golden brown, releasing its tantalizing aroma. Once browned, use tongs to flip the chicken and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the other side to cook thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Aromatics
With the chicken seared, introduce the thinly sliced ginger and garlic into the pan. Stir these fragrant ingredients until they soften and become aromatic, which should take about 1 minute. This step infuses the Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken with a fragrant base that complements the savory glaze and elevates the dish’s overall taste.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Now, it’s time to create the rich sauce! Stir in ½ cup of light brown sugar, ½ cup of reduced-sodium soy sauce, and ½ cup of water, mixing well to dissolve the sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the vibrant flavors to meld together. Watch for bubbling, indicating the sauce is warming up and ready to coat the chicken.

Step 6: Braise the Chicken
Cover the skillet with a lid, reducing the heat to low. Let the chicken braise in the sauce for approximately 20-25 minutes, which will ensure the meat becomes tender and absorbs the delicious flavors. Occasionally lift the lid to spoon the sauce over the chicken, encouraging that beautiful glaze to form as it cooks.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl until smooth. Once the chicken is tender, remove the lid and pour the cornstarch mixture into the sauce, stirring constantly. Return to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a luscious glaze that clings to the chicken.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to serve! Plate the Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken over a bed of rice to soak up the flavorful glaze. If desired, garnish with thinly sliced scallions for a pop of freshness. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this one-pot wonder as you gather around the table with your loved ones!

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to take these ideas and creatively adjust this dish to your preferences!

Vegetable Boost: Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas in the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition. The vibrant veggies not only enhance the presentation but also add a nice crunch to the dish.
Grain Alternative: Serve with quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious and hearty twist. Quinoa will soak up that delicious glaze, elevating your meal with added protein!
Spicy Kick: Drizzle chili crisp or sriracha over the chicken before serving for a delightful heat boost. This simple addition transforms the dish, creating a fiery yet satisfying flavor profile that spice lovers will adore.
Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil towards the end of cooking for a fragrant touch. These herbs will not only brighten the dish but also give it a fresh, aromatic finish.
Coconut Flavor: Swap half of the regular water with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist. This creamy addition enhances the sauce while complementing the sweet and savory notes in the dish.
Marinade Variation: Marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor penetration. This technique elevates the taste, ensuring every bite is infused with that signature shoyu goodness.
Crispy Topping: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and an extra layer of flavor. The nutty aroma beautifully complements the rich glaze, making every bite a delight.
Sweetness Adjustment: Experiment with the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste. Adjusting the sweetness can bring a subtle balance that aligns perfectly with your preferences, just like you’d do in a classic Cranberry Chicken Savory.

These variations will ensure that the Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken remains a delightful staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Start Cold: Begin with the chicken skin-side down in a cold pan for optimal browning and texture. This ensures a crispy finish while rendering fat.

Consider a Splatter Guard: Avoid a messy kitchen by using a splatter guard while searing the chicken. It helps maintain that delicious aroma without widespread oil splatters.

Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar based on your taste. A bit more can enhance the glaze, perfectly balancing the savory flavors of Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken.

Check Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing juicy and tender meat.

Mix and Match Vegetables: For a nutritious upgrade, add bell peppers or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They bring color and extra flavor to your Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken preparations are ideal for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture (soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply refrigerate the marinated chicken in a sealed container. If you prefer, you can also chop the aromatics (ginger and garlic) and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just heat the oil, sear the chicken, and proceed with adding the sauce mixture. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll achieve that irresistible, flavorful glaze with minimal effort, ensuring your dinner is just as delicious as if made from scratch on the day!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken flavorful and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken on the stove with a splash of water or sauce over low heat to retain moisture and avoid drying out.

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Enhance your Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken experience by pairing it with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice absorbs the delicious glaze, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors.
Crispy Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of crunchy veggies tossed in a light dressing provides a bright contrast to the savory chicken.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet, caramelized pineapple slices offer a tropical sweetness that elevates the dish’s Hawaiian essence.
Sautéed Broccoli: Tender broccoli adds vibrant color and a nutritious element, balancing the richness of the chicken beautifully.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side, dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil, cools the palate, making it a perfect accompaniment.
Light Coconut Drink: A cold coconut beverage complements the flavors while enhancing the tropical vibe of your dinner.
Chocolate Covered Macadamia Nuts: For dessert, these bite-sized treats provide a sweet, nutty finish that will delight your taste buds after the savory main course.

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are preferred for their rich flavor and moisture. The skin becomes crispy when cooked properly, enhancing the overall texture. If you’re short on time, boneless thighs can be used, but they will change the dish’s texture slightly.

How can I store leftovers of Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken?
Absolutely! Store your leftover Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and allows for quick meals later in the week.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken?
Yes, you can! Once the chicken has cooled completely, place it in a freezer-safe container or a sealed freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stove with a little water or sauce to keep it moist.

What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce doesn’t thicken as expected, don’t worry! Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional few minutes, and you’ll see it transform into a lovely glaze that clings to the chicken beautifully.

Can I make Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken for my pets?
While the flavors might be tempting for your furry friends, it’s best to avoid giving them any human food that contains soy sauce or garlic, as these ingredients can be harmful to pets. If you want to treat them, cook a plain chicken breast without seasoning as a safe alternative.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken?
The more the merrier! Pair it with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce or add a crisp vegetable salad for balance. You can even toss in some added vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, during cooking for a more nutritious meal!