The aroma of Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken wafts through the air like a tropical breeze, teasing your senses with its rich, savory flavors. Imagine succulent chicken marinated in a sweet and salty soy sauce blend, grilled to perfection, and served with a side of fluffy rice—pure bliss on a plate.

This dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air and everyone fights for the last piece of chicken. It’s perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to cozy weeknight dinners. Trust me; you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, giving your taste buds a treat
- With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, it’s sure to impress at any gathering
- Plus, this versatile dish pairs perfectly with rice or grilled veggies
I still remember the first time I made Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken; my friends devoured it in minutes and begged for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These provide juiciness and tenderness, making them perfect for absorbing flavors.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for robust flavor; minced garlic releases an amazing aroma as it cooks.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth; slice it thinly for maximum infusion into the marinade.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and pop of color when serving.
For the Sauce:
Rice Vinegar: A splash enhances the marinade’s tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken.
Pineapple Juice: Gives a tropical twist that complements the other flavors perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice until fully combined. The mixture should smell heavenly!
Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or dish; pour marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you can wait). This step is crucial for maximum flavor absorption.
Preheat Your Grill or Oven: If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). For oven cooking, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade (reserve leftover marinade) and place on grill or baking sheet. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
Make the Sauce**: While chicken cooks, pour leftover marinade into a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Serve & Enjoy!: Drizzle cooked chicken with sauce before serving; garnish with chopped green onions. Serve alongside rice or grilled veggies for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for your secret!
Now that you’ve discovered how to make this delightful Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family alike!
You Must Know
- Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors
- The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with unforgettable taste
- This dish is perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners, making it versatile and crowd-pleasing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the chicken for at least two hours to soak up those delicious flavors. Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then finish it off in the oven for perfectly cooked meat.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the protein! While chicken is classic, you can use tofu or pork. Adding fresh ginger or pineapple enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that irresistible glaze, brush on additional marinade during cooking
- Always let the chicken rest before slicing to ensure juiciness
- Marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor profile; trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter filled the air and plates were piled high with delicious Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken.
FAQ
Can I use other meats for Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
Absolutely! Pork or even tofu can be great substitutes for this tasty dish.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinade for at least two hours, but overnight yields even better results!
What sides pair well with Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken?
Serve it alongside rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian-Style Shoyu Chicken is a tropical delight that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in a delicious soy sauce blend, grilled to perfection, and served alongside fluffy rice. Ideal for family dinners or backyard barbecues, this recipe will quickly become a favorite as you gather loved ones around the table for a taste of the islands.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice until well combined.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or dish; pour marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight for best flavor).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F) or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade (reserve leftover marinade) and cook on the grill or baking sheet for about 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Pour leftover marinade into a saucepan and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve chicken drizzled with sauce and garnish with chopped green onions alongside rice or grilled veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (170g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg