Description
Hawaiian shoyu chicken delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory island flavors. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich soy-based sauce create a comforting meal that transports you to Pacific paradise with each delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 5 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
Liquid and Sweeteners:
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water
- ¼ cup (60 ml) brown sugar, packed
Aromatics and Spices:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ginger, minced
- ½ yellow onion, minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Combine dark soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, water, and optional green onions in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a robust marinade with complex flavor profiles.
- Submerge chicken pieces completely in the marinade, ensuring each portion is thoroughly coated, and refrigerate for 8-12 hours to allow ingredients to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes prior to cooking, allowing it to approach room temperature for more even heat distribution.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), positioning the rack in the center for consistent cooking.
- Transfer marinated chicken pieces into a ceramic or glass baking dish, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding to promote optimal browning and heat circulation.
- Pour remaining marinade over the chicken, creating a flavorful cooking liquid that will help maintain moisture during baking.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, periodically basting the chicken with pan juices to enhance flavor and prevent surface drying.
- Verify doneness by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness before serving.
Notes
- Marinate chicken overnight to infuse deep, rich flavors and ensure tender, juicy meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Choose bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moistness during baking.
- Allow chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help redistribute juices and maintain tenderness.
- Pair with steamed white rice or Hawaiian macaroni salad for an authentic island-style meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg