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Easy Soy-Free Teriyaki Chicken Recipe with Coconut Aminos for Healthy Meals

soy-free teriyaki chicken - featured image

A quick and healthy soy-free teriyaki chicken recipe using coconut aminos for a sweet, savory, and allergy-friendly meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • ½ cup (120ml) coconut aminos
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 green onions, sliced thinly for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces or leave whole depending on preference.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, maple syrup or honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to make the marinade.
  3. Add chicken to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and let sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  4. Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of high smoke point oil.
  5. Add the chicken pieces to the pan, reserving the marinade. Sear for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving to form a golden crust.
  6. Flip the chicken and cook another 3-4 minutes until mostly cooked through.
  7. Pour the reserved marinade into the pan, reduce heat to medium-low.
  8. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remove from heat, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  10. Serve hot over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or alongside stir-fried vegetables.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before cooking for better sear. Marinate at least 15 minutes for flavor. Add cornstarch slurry slowly to avoid lumps. Avoid boiling sauce vigorously to prevent separation. Add water if sauce thickens too much when reheating. Rest chicken a few minutes after cooking to keep juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: soy-free, teriyaki chicken, coconut aminos, healthy meals, gluten-free, paleo-friendly, quick dinner, allergy-friendly