Love Hawaiian cuisine? You should definitely try making the Rainbow Drive-In Shoyu Chicken at home. This dish is a classic Hawaiian plate lunch, known for its savory, sweet, and umami flavors. The recipe is fairly simple and requires only a few ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll take you through all the steps needed to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge).
- Remove the chicken from the bowl and place it in a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
- While the chicken is cooking, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Heat the leftover marinade in a pan over medium heat. Once boiling, add the slurry and stir until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the chicken with the thickened sauce and chopped green onions (optional).
Serving Suggestions:
Rainbow Drive-In Shoyu Chicken is traditionally served with a scoop of white rice and macaroni salad. You can also try serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes.
Tips and Notes:
- Make sure to use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness of the dish.
- If you don’t have a baking dish, you can also cook the chicken in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
- To make the dish spicier, you can add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the marinade.
- Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To reheat the chicken, cover it with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs:
Q: What is shoyu sauce?
A: Shoyu sauce is a Japanese soy sauce that’s slightly sweeter than regular soy sauce. It’s commonly used in Hawaiian cuisine and adds a unique flavor to dishes.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken instead?
A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?
A: Yes, but be aware that the dish may turn out saltier than intended.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Q: What can I substitute brown sugar with?
A: You can use honey, maple syrup, or white sugar instead of brown sugar.
Wrapping Up:
Rainbow Drive-In Shoyu Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will leave your taste buds wanting more. Plus, with the option to add green onions, you can customize the dish to your liking. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Hawaii from the comfort of your own home!
