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Shoyu Chicken

Shoyu Chicken
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Shoyu Chicken is a cozy and comforting Asian dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated and simmered in a savory soy sauce-based blend infused with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this versatile recipe pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4–6 bone-in chicken thighs (boneless optional)

Marinade & Sauce

  • 1/2 cup naturally brewed soy sauce
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 cup water or chicken broth

Final Touches & Garnish

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Oil for searing (vegetable or canola oil)
  • Optional: sliced chili or chili oil for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and water or chicken broth. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating your flavorful base.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the fridge for deeper flavor penetration.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Pat chicken dry for better browning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil and brown the chicken skin-side down first, forming a crispy golden crust. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Simmer in Sauce: Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low heat until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. Finish with Flair: Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the sauce. Drizzle sesame oil over the top, garnish with fresh green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before searing for crispier skin.
  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor, up to overnight if possible.
  • Taste the soy sauce before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Simmer gently to avoid toughening the meat.
  • For gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
  • Add sliced chili or chili oil for a spicy variation.
  • Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup if desired.
  • Can be cooked in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours as an alternative method.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shoyu Chicken, Asian recipe, soy sauce chicken, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken, weeknight dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/shoyu-chicken/