Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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