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Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors influenced by the diverse cultures that have settled on the islands over centuries. This culinary fusion features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and hearty meats, all prepared with unique techniques and seasonings that reflect the spirit of the Aloha State. One dish that stands out in Hawaiian households, cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavor, is Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken. This dish embodies the essence of Hawaiian comfort food, combining savory, sweet, and umami elements to create a delightful experience for the palate.

Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken

Savor the flavors of the islands with this delicious Hawaiian Shoyu Chicken! Perfectly marinated chicken thighs are baked to juicy perfection and glazed with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and ginger. This easy recipe is great for weeknight dinners or special occasions and is sure to impress. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a tasty finish. Dive into a tropical experience right in your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for more flavor)

1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and cracked black pepper until the sugar is dissolved. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the marinade for later use. Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or bowl, pour the marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

    Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken.

      Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, basting the chicken halfway through with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful. Once the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C), remove it from the oven.

        Caramelize the Sauce: If you desire a thicker glaze, transfer the remaining sauce to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until it thickens.

          Serve: Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken once plated. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating) | Servings: 4