Ingredients

Scale

(Serves 4 | Makes 8–10 skewers)

Chicken & marinade:

1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5″ cubes (thighs stay juicier!)
2 tbsp avocado oil

Homemade sugar-free teriyaki sauce (you control sodium & sweetness!):

½ cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos (you love low-sodium options!)
¼ cup sugar-free maple syrup (blood sugar friendly—you love this!)
2 tbsp rice vinegar
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp sesame oil
1½ tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry—for glossy glaze)

For serving:

Sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Lime wedges (you love citrus!)
Optional: Pineapple chunks or bell pepper pieces (thread onto skewers)

Instructions

1. Marinate chicken (optional but recommended):

In a bowl, whisk all teriyaki sauce ingredients except cornstarch slurry. Add chicken; toss to coat. Marinate 15 min–1 hour (or skip for quick prep).

2. Thread skewers:

If using wooden skewers, soak in water 20 minutes first. Thread chicken (and optional pineapple/bell pepper) onto skewers.

3. Cook:

Grill: Over medium-high heat 6–8 minutes, turning often, until charred and cooked through.
Oven: Place on parchment-lined sheet; bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Stovetop: Sear in skillet 5–6 min per side.

4. Glaze & serve:

Pour reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to simmer.
Stir in cornstarch slurry; cook 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.
Brush glaze over cooked skewers. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and lime.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfection:
✅ Never reuse raw marinade—set aside a portion before adding chicken if basting during cooking.
✅ Use chicken thighs—they stay tender even if slightly overcooked.
✅ Low-sodium mastery (you love this!):
→ Coconut aminos = 65% less sodium than soy sauce
→ Boost umami with extra ginger and garlic
✅ Blood sugar friendly (you love this!):
→ Sugar-free syrup = zero glycemic impact
→ Net carbs: 6g/serving
✅ Low-carb/keto option (you love this!):
→ Already compliant! <8g net carbs/serving
→ Skip cornstarch; reduce sauce longer for thickness
✅ Make ahead:
→ Marinate chicken up to 24 hours
→ Cook skewers just before serving for best texture

Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving):