Keto Low Carb Sesame Chicken Recipe
Craving something sweet and savory that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further! This Keto Low Carb Sesame Chicken is a game-changer for those following a ketogenic diet. It’s packed with flavor, quick to make, and doesn’t leave you longing for takeout. Let's dive into this amazing recipe that’ll have you whipping up a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Introduction
Imagine your favorite Chinese takeout dish but without the guilt. That’s exactly what this Keto Low Carb Sesame Chicken is all about! I first tried this recipe when I was craving something indulgent yet keto-friendly, and it quickly became a household favorite. The tender chicken, coated in a sticky sesame glaze, is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty goodness. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for the family, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe. The ingredients are simple, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry if you’re on a keto diet.
For the Chicken:
- Chicken thighs or breasts – 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Egg – 1 large, beaten
- Almond flour – 1/2 cup
- Coconut flour – 1/4 cup
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Avocado oil – for frying
For the Sesame Sauce:
- Soy sauce or tamari (low sodium) – 1/4 cup
- Sugar-free sweetener (like erythritol or monk fruit) – 2 tbsp
- Rice vinegar – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1 tsp, minced
- Sesame oil – 1 tbsp
- Water – 1/4 cup
- Xanthan gum – 1/4 tsp (for thickening)
- Sesame seeds – 1 tbsp (for garnish)
- Green onions – chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Season with salt and pepper after chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, beat the egg and set it aside.
- Mix almond flour and coconut flour in a separate bowl.
2. Coat and Cook the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat it with the flour mixture.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Take off and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Sesame Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar-free sweetener, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water.
- In a saucepan, warm this mixture over medium heat. Stir in xanthan gum to thicken the sauce, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Add the fried chicken back to the skillet.
- Pour the sesame sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
- Simmer until the sauce sticks to the chicken, 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Serve with garnish. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot, paired with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Macros Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
Nutritional Benefits
- High Protein: Chicken provides lean, high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance and energy.
- Healthy Fats: The sesame oil and avocado oil offer heart-healthy fats that keep you satiated.
- Low Carbs: With only 3g of net carbs per serving, this dish is perfect for keto enthusiasts.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger add not only flavor but also immune-boosting properties.
Keto Tips and Notes
- Use Xanthan Gum Wisely: A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it. It thickens the sauce beautifully without adding carbs.
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: If you’re avoiding soy, opt for coconut aminos instead—it’s slightly sweeter but still keto-approved.
- Sweetener Choices: Monk fruit or erythritol works best for that classic sweet-and-savory flavor.
- Keep it Crispy: Fry the chicken in small batches to ensure it stays golden and crisp.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the Chicken: You can use shrimp, pork, or even tofu (if you’re low-carb but not strictly keto).
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick of heat.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrients.
- No Fry Option: Air fry the chicken for a lighter alternative.
Additional Tips
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its texture.
- Pair It Right: Serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is so good, you’ll want leftovers! Double the ingredients for an easy next-day lunch.
Common FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no substitutions are needed.
2. Can I freeze the sesame chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked chicken separately from the sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat and combine before serving.
3. What’s the best substitute for xanthan gum?
If you don’t have xanthan gum, try ground chia seeds or a pinch of guar gum.
4. How do I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or sriracha sauce to the sesame glaze for an extra punch.
5. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! The sweet and savory flavor is kid-friendly, but you can omit spicy ingredients for younger taste buds.
Conclusion
I hope this Keto Low Carb Sesame Chicken becomes a regular on your dinner table! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite takeout dish while staying true to your keto lifestyle. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and so satisfying—you won’t even miss the carbs!
Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!