Sugar-Free Teriyaki Chicken
A delicious keto-friendly, gluten-free twist on the classic Japanese favorite.
KEY INFO:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Keto, Low-carb, Gluten-free, Sugar-free
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Large skillet or wok
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Alternative: Non-stick pan if preferred
INGREDIENTS:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp (30ml) avocado oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sugar-Free Teriyaki Sauce:
- ⅓ cup (80ml) coconut aminos [or tamari for non-gluten-free]
- ½ cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp (45g) monk fruit sweetener [or allulose]
- 2 tsp (10g) fresh grated ginger
- 2 tsp (10g) minced garlic
- ¼ tsp xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
Garnish:
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 lime, zested and juiced (optional)
METHOD:
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes), turning occasionally.
- Meanwhile, combine coconut aminos, vinegar, sweetener, ginger, and garlic in saucepan.
- Simmer sauce on medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
- If using xanthan gum, whisk it in now until sauce thickens.
- Pour sauce over chicken and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer until sauce coats chicken and becomes glossy (5-7 minutes).
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
CRUCIAL TIPS:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken.
- Sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Internal chicken temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Taste sauce before adding to chicken – adjust sweetness if needed.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS:
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in skillet with splash of water.
- Scaling: Recipe easily doubles; cook in batches if needed.
Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking the chicken (becomes dry).
- Not reducing sauce enough.
- Adding xanthan gum too quickly (creates lumps).
Variations:
- Swap chicken for salmon or shrimp.
- Add stir-fried vegetables.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete keto meal.
- Use different sweeteners (adjust amounts accordingly).
