Teriyaki Basil Chicken
Silky • Caramelized • Naturally Sweet & Savory
This quick teriyaki chicken is made with coconut cream and almond butter for a rich, velvety glaze. It’s brightened with fresh basil and comes together in under 30 minutes for a protein-rich, anti-inflammatory meal that even toddlers will love.
Ingredients (Serves: 3-4)
Chicken:
1½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips or cubes
Salt + pepper to season
1 tbsp olive oil or ghee (for searing)
Teriyaki Sauce:
¼ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey/date syrup)
1½ tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp ginger powder or 1 tsp fresh grated
½ tsp toasted sesame oil
1 tbsp coconut cream (for silkiness)
1 tsp almond butter (natural thickener + flavor)
Pinch of sea salt (adjust to taste)
Finish:
½-1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Optional: chopped green onion + sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Cook the chicken:
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from pan if needed to avoid overcooking.
Simmer the sauce:
Lower heat to medium. Pour sauce directly into the same pan. Stir constantly for 2-4 minutes as it simmers and thickens into a glossy glaze.
Combine + coat:
Return chicken to the pan (if removed) and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until sticky and caramelized.
Stir in basil:
Turn off the heat and add fresh basil. Stir gently to wilt it into the sauce.
Notes
Ingredient Benefits:
Chicken = Lean, complete protein that supports muscle and immune health.
Coconut cream = Adds healthy fats for hormones and glowing skin.
Almond butter = Boosts vitamin E and healthy fats for brain + skin.
Basil = Anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants.
Ginger + garlic = Gut-supportive, anti-bloat, and anti-inflammatory.
Serving Suggestions:
Over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa
With sautéed zucchini, bok choy, or broccoli
Topped with sesame seeds, green onion, or a squeeze of fresh lime
Storage Tips:
Fridge: Keeps well in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in a covered dish at low heat to maintain texture.