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Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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