Asian Inspired Chicken Recipes for Low Carb Weeknight Dinner
If you’re looking for quick, easy, and flavorful meals to whip up during the week, you’ve come to the right place! Asian inspired chicken recipes offer a fantastic way to indulge in delicious flavors while keeping your carb intake low. Whether you’re on a keto diet, trying to eat healthier, or simply want to explore new culinary delights, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without the extra carbs.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Why Choose Low Carb Asian Inspired Chicken Recipes?
Low carb diets have gained popularity due to their effectiveness in weight loss and maintaining energy levels. Asian cuisine is rich in flavors and ingredients that can easily be adapted to fit a low carb lifestyle. By using fresh vegetables, lean proteins like chicken, and flavorful sauces, you can create satisfying dishes that won’t weigh you down.
1. Garlic Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry
This garlic ginger chicken stir-fry is a quick and easy recipe that packs a punch of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in soy sauce, mixing everything well. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
2. Spicy Korean Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These spicy Korean chicken lettuce wraps are fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. They’re low carb and packed with flavor, making them a great weeknight option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add ground chicken and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, mixing well.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
- To serve, spoon chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and garnish with sesame seeds.
3. Teriyaki Chicken Zoodles
These teriyaki chicken zoodles are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a low carb twist. Zucchini noodles replace traditional pasta for a lighter meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1/4 cup low-sugar teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in teriyaki sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add spiralized zucchini and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
4. Lemon Soy Chicken Thighs
This lemon soy chicken thighs recipe is bursting with flavor and takes minimal effort to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar substitute)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, and black pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour marinade over them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and skin is crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
5. Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
This Thai coconut curry chicken is rich, creamy, and full of aromatic flavors. It’s a delightful dish that is low in carbs and high in satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat coconut milk over medium heat.
- Add red curry paste, stirring until well combined.
- Add cubed chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in bell peppers and snap peas, cooking until vegetables are tender.
- Mix in fish sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
2. Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these recipes are perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator and enjoy them throughout the week.
3. Can I make these dishes spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to add more chili paste, fresh peppers, or even red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your taste.
4. What should I serve with these chicken recipes?
These Asian inspired chicken recipes pair well with cauliflower rice, steamed vegetables, or even a simple salad to keep your meal low carb.
Incorporating Asian inspired chicken recipes into your weeknight rotation is a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful meals while adhering to a low carb lifestyle. With a variety of options to choose from, you’re sure to find dishes that your whole family will love!
