Chicken teriyaki is a beloved dish known for its rich, umami-packed flavor and satisfying texture. However, traditional teriyaki sauces often contain high amounts of sugar and carbs, making them unsuitable for those following keto plans.
This version of chicken teriyaki provides all the flavors you love, with a low-carb, keto-friendly sauce that keeps things delicious while staying within your dietary goals.
Why This Keto Chicken Teriyaki Stands Out
Typical teriyaki sauces rely on sugar or honey for their signature sweetness. This keto version replaces high-carb ingredients with a sugar-free sweetener while maintaining the perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory notes.
Avocado oil adds a dose of healthy fats, keeping the recipe satisfying and in line with keto guidelines.
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Beyond its flavor, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients and a fast cooking time, it delivers maximum taste without much effort.
It’s versatile—serve it over cauliflower rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or enjoy it on its own for a simple, protein-packed meal.
How to Serve & Pair This Dish
This keto chicken teriyaki pairs well with a variety of low-carb sides. Here are a few great options to round out your meal:
- Cauliflower rice – A perfect substitute for traditional rice, soaking up the sauce while keeping carbs low.
- Zucchini noodles – Adds a fresh, light texture that complements the rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and crunch while keeping the meal nutrient-dense.
For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the dish before serving.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal prep since it stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:
- Refrigeration – Store cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
- Freezing – You can freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Batch cooking – Double the recipe and portion it into meal prep containers to have ready-to-eat keto meals throughout the week.
Customizing the Recipe
While this version sticks to keto-friendly ingredients, there are several ways to modify it based on personal preferences or dietary needs.
- Make it gluten-free – Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Add a spicy kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha can bring heat to balance the sweetness.
- Try different proteins – Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu (if you’re including plant-based options in your keto plan).
This chicken teriyaki is proof that keto recipes don’t have to be boring or restrictive. With its bold flavors, easy preparation, and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a crowd-pleasing weekend meal.
Whether you’re new to keto or just looking for a healthier take on a classic favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation.
Keto Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1.5 lb chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp sweetener keto-friendly
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan and place over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats up.
- Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fully cooked and golden brown. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Combine & Serve: Remove the cooked chicken from heat, pour the prepared sauce over it, and mix well to evenly coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve with your favorite low-carb side dish.
Notes
- This keto chicken teriyaki pairs well with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
- Xanthan gum helps thicken the sauce while keeping it keto-friendly. Adjust the amount slightly for your preferred consistency.
- Swap chicken thighs with chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option.
- For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in a small portion of the sauce before cooking.
Nutrition
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.