Teriyaki chicken is a popular dish that originated from Japan. It is loved by many due to its sweet and savory flavor, and is usually served with rice or noodles. However, for those who are watching their carbohydrate intake, teriyaki chicken can be a tricky dish to navigate. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about carbs in teriyaki chicken, including nutrition facts, tips, and reviews.
Table of Contents
What are Carbs?
Carbohydrates, also known as carbs, are one of the three macronutrients that are essential for our body. They are the primary source of energy for our body and are found in a wide variety of foods. Carbs can be divided into two main categories: simple and complex. Simple carbs are made up of one or two sugar molecules and are found in foods like fruits, milk, and candy. On the other hand, complex carbs are made up of many sugar molecules and are found in foods like vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
What is Teriyaki Chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is a Japanese dish made by marinating chicken in a sweet and savory sauce made of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a sweet Japanese cooking wine). The chicken is then grilled or pan-fried until it is cooked through and the sauce has caramelized.
How Many Carbs are in Teriyaki Chicken?
The amount of carbs in teriyaki chicken can vary depending on the recipe and serving size. However, on average, one serving of teriyaki chicken (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) contains around 12 to 15 grams of carbs.
What are the Main Sources of Carbs in Teriyaki Chicken?
The main sources of carbs in teriyaki chicken come from the sauce and any additional ingredients like rice or noodles that are served with the dish. The teriyaki sauce usually contains sugar or honey, which can add to the overall carb count.
How to Make Low-Carb Teriyaki Chicken?
If you are watching your carb intake, there are a few ways you can make teriyaki chicken with fewer carbs. Here are some tips:
1. Use a Low-Carb Sweetener
Instead of using sugar or honey in the teriyaki sauce, try using a low-carb sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. These sweeteners have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels and can help reduce the overall carb count of the dish.
2. Serve with Low-Carb Alternatives
Instead of serving teriyaki chicken with rice or noodles, try serving it with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These options have fewer carbs than traditional rice or noodles and can help keep your overall carb count low.
3. Use Tamari Instead of Soy Sauce
Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce that has a lower carb count than traditional soy sauce. It is a great option for those who are watching their carb intake.
What Do People Say About Carbs in Teriyaki Chicken?
The response of people who know about carbs in teriyaki chicken is mixed. Some people are aware of the carb count and try to make low-carb alternatives, while others are not as concerned and enjoy the dish as is.
Nutrition Facts of Teriyaki Chicken
Here is a nutrition facts table for one serving (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) of teriyaki chicken:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 218 |
| Protein | 19.5 grams |
| Fat | 10.6 grams |
| Carbs | 12.6 grams |
| Sugar | 10.9 grams |
| Sodium | 624 mg |
Conclusion
Teriyaki chicken can be a delicious and satisfying dish, but it is important to be aware of its carb count if you are watching your carbohydrate intake. By using low-carb sweeteners, serving with low-carb alternatives, and using tamari instead of soy sauce, you can enjoy teriyaki chicken while keeping your carb count low. Remember to always check the nutrition facts and adjust your portions accordingly to fit your dietary needs.
