Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Keto Cashew Chicken is a delicious low-carb twist on a classic takeout favorite. Crispy chicken thighs are coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce and topped with crunchy cashews for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for keto diets. It’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 3 tablespoons sugar-free brown erythritol sweetener
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
• 1/2 cup cashews (chopped)
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and crispy. If the chicken releases liquid, continue cooking until it evaporates and the chicken forms a crisp coating.
2. Step 2: While the chicken cooks, whisk together soy sauce, sugar-free sweetener, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water in a small bowl to make the sauce.
3. Step 3: When the chicken is cooked through and crispy, pour the sauce mixture over it in the skillet.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle xanthan gum evenly over the sauce while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a glaze consistency.
5. Step 5: Stir in the chopped cashews. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions for added flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the cashews before adding them to the dish.
• Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
• Add a splash of sesame oil to the sauce for extra depth.
• Increase the garlic and ginger amounts if you prefer a stronger aromatic flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Keto Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken crispy and the sauce smooth. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts cut into pieces, but thighs tend to be juicier and stay tender during the cooking process, enhancing the overall texture.

What if I don’t have xanthan gum?

You can use a small amount of coconut flour or almond flour as a thickener, but xanthan gum works best for a smooth, glossy sauce without adding extra carbs.

Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 101 reviews

This Keto Cashew Chicken recipe offers a low-carb, flavorful twist on a classic takeout favorite. Tender chicken thighs are cooked to crispy perfection then coated in a savory, sugar-free sauce thickened with xanthan gum and studded with crunchy cashews. Garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a perfect gluten-free, keto-friendly dinner that delivers the comfort of takeout without the guilt.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
• 3 tablespoons sugar-free brown erythritol sweetener
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum

Finishing

• 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thigh pieces and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken will release liquid at first; continue cooking until the liquid evaporates and the chicken develops a golden, crispy coating. This ensures a flavorful and texturally satisfying base for the dish.
2. Prepare the sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, erythritol sweetener, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water in a small bowl until fully combined. This mixture will form the savory, low-carb sauce.
3. Combine chicken and sauce: Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir gently to combine.
4. Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle the xanthan gum evenly over the sauce while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.
5. Add cashews and garnish: Stir in the chopped cashews to add crunch and flavor. Serve the cashew chicken immediately, garnished with sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Ensure you cook the chicken long enough to evaporate all liquids for optimal crispiness.
• Xanthan gum thickens the sauce without adding carbs; sprinkle it gradually and stir well to avoid lumps.
• You can substitute cashews with almonds or pecans if preferred.
• Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete keto-friendly meal.

Keywords: Keto Cashew Chicken, low-carb chicken, gluten-free chicken recipe, keto dinner, sugar-free sauce, healthy takeout, cashew chicken stir fry