Best Easy Shoyu Chicken Recipe Crockpot
Are you looking for a delicious and convenient meal that can be prepared with minimal effort? Look no further than this amazing Shoyu Chicken recipe made in a crockpot. Shoyu Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish that is loved for its savory and slightly sweet flavors. With the help of a crockpot, you can easily cook tender and flavorful chicken that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So, let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them.
3. Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and set it aside.
5. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and mix well.
6. Turn the crockpot to high heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
7. While the sauce is thickening, remove the skin from the chicken thighs and shred the meat using two forks.
8. Once the sauce has thickened, add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and mix well, ensuring that every piece is coated in the delicious sauce.
9. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
10. Serve the Shoyu Chicken hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. It can be enjoyed over a bed of steamed rice or alongside some stir-fried vegetables.
Now that you have the recipe, let’s address some commonly asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not be as tender and juicy as thighs.
2. Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply cook the chicken in a pot on low heat, covered, until tender.
3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Start by reducing it by a quarter cup and adjust as needed.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This Shoyu Chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty flavor.
6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for added texture and flavor.
7. Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you enjoy some heat, you can add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
8. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work just fine in this recipe. They may cook slightly faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Simply reheat it in the crockpot or on the stovetop before serving.
Enjoy this Best Easy Shoyu Chicken Recipe made in a crockpot and savor the delightful flavors of this Hawaiian dish. It’s a perfect meal for busy weekdays or when you want a delicious and hassle-free dinner option.