Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe
Rainbow Drive In Shoyu Chicken Recipe features marinated chicken in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. The chicken is simmered until tender, absorbing the rich, sweet, and salty flavors. It’s traditionally served with steamed rice and macaroni salad for a classic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.
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!
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!