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Who doesn’t love the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaiian-style teriyaki chicken? That mouthwatering combination of juicy grilled chicken, smoky charred edges, and rich teriyaki sauce with just the right touch of sweetness is pure comfort food. But traditional teriyaki sauce is loaded with sugar, making it a no-go for keto.
That’s where this Keto Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken comes in! This version captures all the classic flavors of authentic Hawaiian barbecue without the carbs. Instead of sugar-laden sauces, we use a low-carb teriyaki glaze made with keto-friendly ingredients that still provide the signature deep umami, tangy-sweet richness, and irresistible caramelization.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors, using a stovetop pan, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a must-try for any keto lover who craves bold, satisfying flavors.
If you’re loving keto-friendly recipes like this, why not take your journey to the next level? Discover meal plans crafted to suit your taste and help you stay on track with your goals. Start your custom plan today!
Why You’ll Love Keto Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken
- Authentic Flavor Without the Carbs – This keto-friendly teriyaki sauce tastes just like the real deal but without the sugar crash.
- Simple & Quick to Make – Perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
- Great for Meal Prep – The chicken stores well and can be used in salads, wraps, or bowls throughout the week.
- Versatile Cooking Options – Grill it, pan-sear it, or bake it—whatever works best for you!
- Family-Friendly – Even non-keto eaters will love the juicy, flavorful chicken.
My Personal Experience
I’ve always been a fan of Hawaiian BBQ, but traditional teriyaki sauce was one of the hardest things to give up when I started keto. That sweet, sticky glaze was just too good!
After experimenting with different sugar substitutes and ingredients, I finally landed on the perfect keto teriyaki sauce. It caramelizes beautifully, clings to the chicken just right, and has that balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
The first time I made this, I grilled the chicken outdoors, and the smoky aroma was incredible. The sauce created that slightly charred, glossy coating that makes Hawaiian teriyaki chicken so irresistible. I couldn’t believe how close it tasted to the real thing—but with zero guilt!
Now, this is a go-to recipe for summer barbecues, easy weeknight meals, or whenever I’m craving something hearty but still keto-friendly.
Required Equipment
The right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that perfect caramelization and char. Here’s what I recommend:
- Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a couple of sturdy bowls to mix and marinate the chicken. I always prefer glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning.
- Whisk – A good whisk ensures that the keto teriyaki sauce blends smoothly without clumps.
- Grill or Stovetop Pan – If you have a grill, definitely use it for the best smoky, caramelized finish. But a stovetop pan works just as well for an indoor version.
- Tongs – Essential for flipping the chicken and ensuring even cooking without losing those delicious juices.
- Basting Brush – Helps coat the chicken with layers of teriyaki sauce, giving it that glossy, flavorful glaze.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s everything you need to make delicious keto-friendly teriyaki chicken:
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (thighs are best for juiciness, but chicken breasts work too)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any high-heat oil for searing)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Keto Teriyaki Sauce
- ½ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce for a deeper umami taste)
- 2 tbsp brown erythritol (or any keto-friendly sweetener for that classic teriyaki sweetness)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds just the right amount of tang)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (for that nutty, rich flavor)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- ½ tsp xanthan gum (to slightly thicken the sauce)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
How to Make Keto Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, brown erythritol, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle with avocado oil and add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with leftover marinade, until the outside is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Thicken the Sauce
Pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in xanthan gum and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Coat & Serve
Brush the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve!
Tips for the Best Keto Teriyaki Chicken
- Use chicken thighs – They stay juicy and tender even when grilled.
- Let it marinate longer – The more time, the better the flavor!
- Don’t overdo the xanthan gum – A little goes a long way to avoid a gummy texture.
Optional Additions
- Add pineapple extract for an authentic Hawaiian-style touch.
- Serve with cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with grilled veggies or a simple cucumber salad.
- Serve in lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 32g
- Total Carbs: 4g
- Net Carbs: 2g
Keto Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- ½ cup coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp brown erythritol
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger
- ½ tsp xanthan gum
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, brown erythritol, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. This will be the marinade and the base for the teriyaki sauce.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
- Set the remaining half of the marinade aside—this will be used later to create a thick, keto-friendly teriyaki glaze.
- When ready to cook, heat a grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and let it heat up.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill or pan, and cook for 5-7 minutes on one side, until nicely browned and slightly charred.
- Flip the chicken using tongs and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes, occasionally brushing with some of the reserved marinade for extra flavor. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add ½ teaspoon xanthan gum to the sauce while whisking continuously. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly into a rich teriyaki glaze.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
- Brush the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken for a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, then serve immediately.
I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make your keto journey easier? Get a meal plan tailored to your unique needs and preferences, designed to keep you on track effortlessly. Start your personalized plan now!
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