If you’re searching for a dinner that’s not only delectable but also aligns with your clean-eating goals, look no further than Paleo Chicken Teriyaki! This delightful dish combines tender chicken thighs with a glossy, homemade teriyaki glaze made from wholesome ingredients. Say goodbye to store-bought sauces laden with preservatives and sugar, and say hello to a recipe bursting with flavor and vibrancy. In just 25 minutes, you can prepare a meal that’s perfectly balanced and satisfying.
This Paleo Chicken Teriyaki isn’t just extremely easy to whip up; it’s also versatile. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals for the week, this dish can be the star of your dinner ideas rotation. The flavor profile is rich with umami thanks to the coconut aminos, while the honey provides just the right touch of sweetness without derailing your dietary choices. Plus, this recipe is an excellent option for those adhering to Whole30 or paleo diets while craving a classic dish.
So, gather your ingredients and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen. By the end of this recipe, you’ll have a flavorful meal that everyone will love. Trust us, this dish is going to become a weeknight go-to!
Why You’ll Love This Paleo Chicken Teriyaki
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like coconut aminos and raw honey.
- Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a meal prep option.
- Bold Flavors: Rich umami taste from the teriyaki glaze that satisfies cravings.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, allowing for a smooth cooking experience. You’ll need a large skillet, ideally a cast-iron or non-stick pan, for searing the chicken effectively and achieving that beautiful golden-brown finish.
Measure out all your ingredients ahead of time to eliminate any rushing. Having your coconut aminos, honey, garlic, ginger, and arrowroot starch ready to go will streamline the cooking process. Prepare your veggies and get everything within arm’s reach so you can easily incorporate them as you cook. Lastly, make sure to have paper towels handy for drying the chicken and keep your serving dishes ready for the final presentation.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 cup coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons raw honey
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water (for arrowroot slurry)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming and cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This not only ensures even cooking but also makes it easier to enjoy in the final dish. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help achieve that perfect sear when cooking.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. If you’re opting to use arrowroot starch for a thicker glaze, mix it separately with water in a small bowl and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Now, heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden color and are cooked through. It’s important to give them enough space in the pan so that they brown properly.
Step 4: Simmer with Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes. This step is vital as it allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Thicken the Glaze (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker teriyaki glaze, this is when you can add the arrowroot slurry. Stir it in and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thickens to your liking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top of the chicken for added flavor and presentation. You can serve this delicious Paleo Chicken Teriyaki over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables to keep it healthy and satisfying.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro for an aromatic twist.
Cooking Notes
- Select high-quality, organic ingredients where possible to enhance both flavor and health benefits.
- Preparation can be key: spend a little time prepping your ingredients before you begin cooking to make the process smoother.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb meal.
- Offer a mix of steamed vegetables as a colorful, nutritious side.
Tips
- For the best results, make sure your chicken is not overcrowded while cooking, as this may cause steaming instead of searing.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce by increasing or decreasing the honey according to your taste.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when ready to cook for the best results.
What can I serve with Paleo Chicken Teriyaki?
This dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh salad to keep things light and healthy.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or even tofu to cater to your preference.
Is there a substitute for coconut aminos?
If you don’t have coconut aminos, you can use tamari or soy sauce, but this may no longer keep the dish strictly Paleo.
Conclusion
Paleo Chicken Teriyaki not only delivers incredible flavor but also adheres to a clean-eating lifestyle, making it a fantastic dinner choice! With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the guilt. Whether you’re sticking to a strict diet or looking to indulge in a classic Asian dish, this recipe fits the bill. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations; they can personalize the meal to your taste! We hope you try this recipe, and if you do, please share your thoughts or variations in the comments section. Happy cooking!
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Paleo Chicken Teriyaki
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Paleo Chicken Teriyaki delivers flavor and aligns with clean-eating goals!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 cup coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons raw honey
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water (for arrowroot slurry)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Start by trimming and cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This not only ensures even cooking but also makes it easier to enjoy in the final dish. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help achieve that perfect sear when cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. If you’re opting to use arrowroot starch for a thicker glaze, mix it separately with water in a small bowl and set it aside for now.
- Now, heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden color and are cooked through. It’s important to give them enough space in the pan so that they brown properly.
- Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes. This step is vital as it allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker teriyaki glaze, this is when you can add the arrowroot slurry. Stir it in and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thickens to your liking.
- Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top of the chicken for added flavor and presentation. You can serve this delicious Paleo Chicken Teriyaki over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables to keep it healthy and satisfying.
Notes
Select high-quality, organic ingredients where possible to enhance both flavor and health benefits. Preparation can be key: spend a little time prepping your ingredients before you begin cooking to make the process smoother.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 24 g