Here’s a list of ingredients for **Instant Pot Hawaii-Style Shoyu Chicken Drumsticks**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords:
- **Chicken drumsticks** (2-3 lbs, bone-in, skin-on for authentic flavor)
- **Soy sauce** (1 cup, low-sodium preferred for a balanced taste)
- **Brown sugar** (1/2 cup, for sweetness and caramelization)
- **Garlic** (4 cloves, minced, for aromatic depth)
- **Fresh ginger** (1-inch piece, grated, for a zesty kick)
- **Green onions** (3-4 stalks, chopped, for garnish and freshness)
- **Rice vinegar** (1/4 cup, for tanginess and balance)
- **Water** (1/2 cup, to adjust sauce consistency)
- **Sesame oil** (1 tbsp, for nutty flavor)
- **Cornstarch slurry** (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, for thickening the sauce)
- **Optional: Red pepper flakes** (1/2 tsp, for a hint of spice)
- **Optional: Pineapple juice** (1/4 cup, for a tropical twist)
This **Hawaiian shoyu chicken recipe** is perfect for the **Instant Pot**, offering a quick and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Serve with **steamed rice** or **macaroni salad** for an authentic **Hawaiian plate lunch** experience!
Steps
# Instant Pot Hawaii-Style Shoyu Chicken Drumsticks: A Flavorful Island-Inspired Recipe
Craving a taste of Hawaii? This Instant Pot Hawaii-style shoyu chicken drumsticks recipe brings the bold, sweet, and savory flavors of the islands straight to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish is easy to make and packed with umami goodness. Follow these detailed steps to create tender, juicy drumsticks that will transport your taste buds to the tropics.
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## **Ingredients for Hawaii-Style Shoyu Chicken Drumsticks**
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 8-10 pieces)
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce (shoyu)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening the sauce)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Optional: For extra flavor, marinate the drumsticks in 1/4 cup of soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
### **Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function.
2. Add sesame oil (if using) and let it heat up for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and sliced ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
### **Step 3: Add the Chicken and Sauce**
1. Place the drumsticks in the Instant Pot, arranging them in a single layer.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and rice vinegar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
### **Step 4: Pressure Cook**
1. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the "Sealing" position.
2. Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the timer for 12 minutes on high pressure.
3. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
### **Step 5: Thicken the Sauce**
1. Remove the drumsticks and set them aside on a serving platter.
2. Turn the Instant Pot back to the "Sauté" function.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water to create a slurry.
4. Slowly stir the slurry into the sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
1. Pour the thickened sauce over the drumsticks.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
3. Serve with steamed white rice or macaroni salad for an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience.
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## **Tips for Perfect Shoyu Chicken Drumsticks**
- **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar to 1/4 cup.
- **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This Instant Pot Hawaii-style shoyu chicken drumsticks recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with authentic island flavors. The tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken paired with the rich, savory-sweet sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re a fan of Hawaiian cuisine or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Hawaii to your dinner table! Don’t forget to share your results and tag us on social media. 🌺🍗