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Keto Honey Garlic Chicken - Sweet, Savory, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or light olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for seasoning the chicken)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup keto honey substitute (allulose- or monk fruit–based syrup works best)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish
  • Steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice, for serving (optional, low-carb sides)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dry chicken browns better and stays juicy.
  2. Heat the pan: Add oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan.
  3. Sear until golden: Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring a few times, until nicely browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  4. Build the sauce base: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. When melted, stir in minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Don’t burn the garlic.
  5. Sweet and savory blend: Stir in the keto honey substitute, soy sauce or coconut aminos, vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Thicken (optional): If you like a thicker, stickier sauce, sprinkle xanthan gum lightly over the surface while whisking. Start with a small pinch at a time; it thickens quickly.
  7. Reduce to glossy: Let the sauce bubble for 2–3 minutes until it turns shiny and slightly syrupy. Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or vinegar as needed.
  8. Coat the chicken: Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Toss to coat and simmer 1–2 minutes so the sauce clings to every piece.
  9. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete keto meal.