Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe is a beloved Hawaiian classic, known for its tender, juicy texture and rich, savory-sweet flavor.
This local favorite, served at the iconic Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu, features bone-in chicken simmered in a mouthwatering sauce made from shoyu (soy sauce), brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
The result? A dish bursting with umami, perfectly paired with steamed rice and macaroni salad for an authentic plate lunch experience.
(When i test the recipe for first time in my relatives home i was fully shoked the taste of this recipe is blast in my mouth)
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity—minimal ingredients, effortless preparation, and bold flavors that transport you straight to Hawaii with every bite.
Craving a taste of island comfort food or looking to recreate Rainbow Drive-In’s signature dish at home, this shoyu chicken recipe is sure to satisfy.
The Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe is the best ever i tried all of my family members love this recipe very much.
Get ready to enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful meal that embodies the spirit of aloha in every bite! Stay tuned for the step-by-step guide to making it at home.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
1. Authentic Hawaiian Flavor – If you’ve ever wanted to experience the taste of Hawaii at home, this recipe brings the iconic flavors of Rainbow Drive-In right to your kitchen.
2. Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep – Shoyu chicken reheats well, making it great for leftovers or packed lunches.
4. Pairs Well with Everything – Serve it with rice and mac salad for the classic Hawaiian plate lunch experience, or enjoy it with veggies for a lighter meal.
5. Family-Friendly – The sweet and savory flavors appeal to all ages, making it a great dish for weeknight dinners.
How To Prepare Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe?
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 280
Serves: 6
Equipment Needed
- Large sauté pan or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs
- 1¼ cups soy sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2½ teaspoons garlic purée
- 1½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ounces fresh ginger, peeled and crushed
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or pot, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, mirin, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Cook the Chicken: Transfer the chicken and marinade to a large pot or deep skillet. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, uncovered. Flip the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and absorption of the sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce: (Optional) If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and let the sauce reduce for another 10 minutes over medium heat until slightly thickened.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor: (Optional) For crispy skin, place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until slightly charred.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the shoyu chicken with steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style macaroni salad. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy this island favorite!
Special Notes
1. For Extra Tender Chicken: If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
2. Adjusting the Sweetness & Saltiness: Traditional Hawaiian-style shoyu chicken is both sweet and savory. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly. If it’s too salty, add a little more water to balance the flavors.
3. Make It a Full Plate Lunch: For an authentic Rainbow Drive-In experience, serve the shoyu chicken with steamed white rice and creamy Hawaiian-style macaroni salad. Add a side of sautéed cabbage or pickled vegetables for a complete plate lunch!
Health Benefits
Rainbow Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe offers a delicious balance of protein, essential minerals, and antioxidants.
The chicken thighs provide high-quality protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. Garlic and ginger in the marinade have natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while soy sauce contains beneficial amino acids.
The dish is also a good source of iron and B vitamins, which promote energy production and overall well-being. Pairing it with steamed rice and vegetables makes for a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal!
Serving Suggestions
1. Classic Hawaiian Plate Lunch: Serve with steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style macaroni salad for an authentic Rainbow Drive-In experience.
2. Shoyu Chicken Bowl: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bowl of rice with sautéed cabbage, carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
3. Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, shred the chicken and wrap it in crisp butter lettuce with sliced cucumbers and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
4. Hawaiian BBQ Sliders: Shred the chicken and serve on Hawaiian sweet rolls with coleslaw and a touch of spicy mayo for a fun twist.
5. Shoyu Chicken Ramen: Add shredded shoyu chicken to a bowl of hot ramen noodles with green onions, soft-boiled eggs, and a splash of broth.
6. Tropical Pineapple Chicken: Serve alongside grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and savory flavor combo.
7. Teriyaki-Style Stir-Fry: Chop the chicken and toss it into a stir-fry with bell peppers, onions, and broccoli, served over rice or noodles.
8. Shoyu Chicken Fried Rice: Dice up any leftovers and stir-fry with rice, eggs, green onions, and a splash of soy sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.
Tips and Variations:
1. Spicy Shoyu Chicken: Add 1–2 tablespoons of sriracha or a dash of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle with spicy mayo before serving.
2. Pineapple Shoyu Chicken: Mix ½ cup of pineapple juice into the marinade for a tropical sweetness that enhances the umami flavors. Garnish with grilled pineapple slices for an island-inspired twist.
3. Oven-Baked Shoyu Chicken: Instead of simmering, bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, basting occasionally for a sticky glaze. Broil at the end for crispy skin.
4. Slow Cooker Shoyu Chicken: Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The chicken will be fall-apart tender, perfect for shredding over rice or noodles.
5. Gluten-Free Shoyu Chicken: Swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make the dish gluten-free without losing the rich, savory flavors.
What Is Shoyu Chicken?
Shoyu chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish where chicken is marinated and then cooked in a savory sauce made with soy sauce (shoyu), sugar, garlic, and ginger. It’s known for its slightly sweet, salty, and umami flavor, making it a local favorite at many Hawaiian restaurants, including Rainbow Drive-In.
How Do I Make Rainbow Drive-In Shoyu Chicken?
While the exact recipe used at Rainbow Drive-In is a closely guarded secret, a basic version includes the following ingredients: bone-in chicken (often thighs), soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and green onions. The chicken is marinated in the sauce for a few hours, then simmered until tender.
What Makes Rainbow Drive-In’s Shoyu Chicken Different From Other Recipes?
Rainbow Drive-In’s version is known for its balance of sweet and salty flavors and tender chicken. The key is in the cooking process, where the sauce is reduced to a perfect glaze that coats the chicken, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Storage Tips
To store Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe properly, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
When freezing, store it with some extra sauce to keep it moist. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best texture, avoid overcooking when reheating. Enjoy leftovers in rice bowls, sandwiches, or stir-fries!
Conclusion:
Rainbow Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe is a true Hawaiian classic—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, this dish brings a taste of island comfort food to your home.
Enjoy it as part of a traditional plate lunch, in a rice bowl, or even in a sandwich, its versatility makes it a family favorite. Plus, with easy variations like spicy, pineapple-infused, or slow-cooked versions, you can customize it to suit your taste.
This Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe is also great for meal prepping, as it stores and reheats well, making busy weeknights stress-free.
If you’re looking for a delicious, no-fuss meal that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, this Shoyu Chicken is a must-try.
Give it a go, and let the flavors transport you to the islands!
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Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Large sauté pan or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs
- 1¼ cups soy sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2½ teaspoons garlic purée
- 1½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 ounces fresh ginger peeled and crushed
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or pot, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, mirin, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Transfer the chicken and marinade to a large pot or deep skillet. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Simmer to Perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, uncovered. Flip the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and absorption of the sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: (Optional) If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and let the sauce reduce for another 10 minutes over medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: (Optional) For crispy skin, place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until slightly charred.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the shoyu chicken with steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style macaroni salad. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy this island favorite!
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