Paleo Chicken Teriyaki

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Sweet, sticky, and perfectly savory, this Paleo Chicken Teriyaki is the kind of dinner that makes healthy eating feel indulgent. It skips the usual soy sauce and refined sugars, yet keeps all the deep umami flavor you crave in a teriyaki dish. Imagine tender chicken bites coated in a luscious homemade sauce with hints of garlic, ginger, and just the right touch of natural sweetness.

This recipe fits seamlessly into your weekly meal prep or your family’s dinner rotation. It pairs well with cauliflower rice, sautéed greens, or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a crunchy twist. Whether you’re paleo, gluten-free, or simply trying to clean up your meals, this chicken teriyaki is the comfort food you didn’t know could be this good for you.

Why You’ll Love This Paleo Chicken Teriyaki

This dish delivers bold, familiar teriyaki flavors using wholesome ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from pan to plate, and it satisfies without any of the typical teriyaki guilt. Plus, it stores beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce in Paleo Chicken Teriyaki?

In place of soy sauce, this recipe uses coconut aminos. They have a similar salty, slightly sweet flavor but are soy-free and perfect for a paleo lifestyle. Coconut aminos keep the flavor profile authentic while keeping it clean and allergy-friendly.

Ingredients for the Paleo Chicken Teriyaki

The ingredients in this recipe are simple, whole, and pantry-friendly. Each one plays a role in building the flavor of this rich and glossy teriyaki sauce.

• Chicken thighs: Boneless and skinless, these are tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Coconut aminos: This soy sauce alternative brings the umami depth without any soy.
• Maple syrup: Adds a rich, natural sweetness that balances the saltiness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds pungent aroma and flavor.
• Ginger: Ground or fresh, it adds a warm and slightly spicy kick.
• Apple cider vinegar: A splash of acidity helps balance the sweetness.
• Arrowroot starch: Used to thicken the sauce naturally, giving it that classic teriyaki glaze.
• Sesame oil: Optional but delicious for that nutty, toasted finish.

How To Make the Paleo Chicken Teriyaki

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant. Then pour in the coconut aminos, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Thicken It Up

Mix the arrowroot starch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it cook for a couple of minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer together for a few minutes so the chicken absorbs all the flavor. Drizzle with sesame oil if using.

How to Store and Serve This Chicken Teriyaki

This Paleo Chicken Teriyaki feeds about 4 people and is ideal for weeknight dinners or lunch meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave, making it perfect for next-day lunches.

To serve, spoon the saucy chicken over cauliflower rice, or try it with steamed broccoli, green beans, or your favorite stir-fried vegetables. It’s also fantastic inside a lettuce wrap for a light yet satisfying meal.

What to Serve With Paleo Chicken Teriyaki?

Cauliflower Rice

Light and fluffy, it’s the perfect grain-free companion to soak up the teriyaki sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A classic side that balances the sweetness of the chicken.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Adds a hearty, earthy flavor that pairs well with the sticky sauce.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

A quick toss of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds crunch and color.

Asian Slaw

Crisp cabbage with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.

Cucumber Salad

Cool, crisp, and refreshing to balance the warm spices of the chicken.

Lettuce Wraps

A fun and interactive way to serve the chicken, great for gatherings.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Paleo Chicken Teriyaki, check out some other delicious and wholesome favorites:

• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
• Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
• Chicken Shawarma in a Loaf Pan
• Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest paleo or dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it with cauliflower rice or go with lettuce wraps? Did you try adding crushed red pepper for heat?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better every day.

Explore beautifully curated healthy dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your new favorite dinner inspiration.

Conclusion

Paleo Chicken Teriyaki proves that eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With its balance of sweet, salty, and savory elements, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal made from ingredients you can feel good about. Whether it’s your first time trying a paleo recipe or you’re a seasoned pro, this one’s a keeper.

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