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Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Thighs

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Thighs
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Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated and simmered in a rich, umami-packed sauce made from soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bursting with sweet and savory flavors and finished with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds, this easy recipe brings the taste of the islands to your table—perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4–6 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs

Marinade & Sauce

  • 1/2 cup shoyu (soy sauce)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

For Cooking & Garnish

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a large bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the flavors meld together, creating a beautifully balanced marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
  3. Browns the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve the marinade). Brown the thighs skin-side down for about 5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and brown the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Simmer in Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the chicken along with a splash of water if needed. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally to coat the thighs in the sauce until fully cooked and tender.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken. Serve hot and enjoy the tropical flavors!

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
  • Brown chicken in batches; do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper caramelization.
  • Use skin-on thighs for crispier skin and juicier meat.
  • Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your sweetness preference.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian, Shoyu Chicken, Chicken Thighs, Pineapple, Soy Sauce, Easy Dinner, Gluten-Free, Umami, Tender Chicken

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/hawaiian-shoyu-chicken-thighs/