Shoyu Chicken is a classic Hawaiian comfort food that delivers bold savory flavor with every bite.
Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and spices, then grilled until beautifully caramelized and juicy.
Served over a bed of steamed rice, this island favorite is simple to prepare yet packed with unforgettable flavor.
The sweet and salty marinade creates a glossy glaze on the chicken while the garlic and ginger add warmth and depth.
This recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts, meal prep, or easy family dinners.
The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes, making it a reliable go-to recipe whenever you want something hearty and satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Additional Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 5 pounds skinless chicken thighs
Directions
- In a large glass or ceramic mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, black pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, and paprika until fully combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavor, marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
- Place chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for about 15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and nicely charred around the edges.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Serve hot with steamed white rice, grilled pineapple, or macaroni salad for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal.
Chefs Notes
- Boneless chicken thighs can be used for quicker cooking times.
- For extra caramelization, brush the chicken lightly with reserved boiled marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
- This recipe also works well baked in the oven at 400 degrees F for about 35 to 40 minutes.
- Add sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
- Leftover shoyu chicken makes an excellent rice bowl or sandwich filling the next day.