Keto Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Chinese takeout dish, transforming it into a low-carb, sugar-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This recipe features tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious orange sauce made from fresh orange juice, zest, and a blend of savory spices. With each bite, you experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it an ideal dish for anyone on a keto diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to their favorite takeout.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this keto orange chicken recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. Unlike traditional recipes that rely on sugar-laden sauces, our version uses natural sweeteners, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. The dish is not only packed with protein but also offers a burst of citrus brightness that elevates the meal. Plus, it comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days. You can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with your keto lifestyle without sacrificing taste or texture.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure the best results with your keto orange chicken, here are some handy tips and tricks:
- Marinate the Chicken: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest will give you the best flavor profile, so try to avoid bottled juices.
- Crispiness Factor: To achieve that signature crunchy texture, coat the chicken in an almond flour and seasoning mix before frying or air frying.
- Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of the orange sauce and storing it in the fridge for quick meal prep throughout the week.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who meal prep or like to plan ahead, here are some make-ahead tips for your keto orange chicken:
- Marinate Chicken in Advance: You can marinate the chicken the night before, making it more flavorful when cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce Ahead: Make the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Storage of Cooked Chicken: Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat and enjoy later.
Recipe Variations
Mix things up with these variations of the keto orange chicken recipe:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Toss in your favorite low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to make a vibrant stir-fry.
- Orange Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Serve the orange chicken in lettuce cups for a fresh and crunchy alternative.
How to Serve
Serve your keto orange chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flair. A drizzle of additional orange sauce can make the presentation pop, while a few orange wedges on the side add a refreshing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced herbal tea to complement the citrus flavors. For side dishes, try a simple cucumber salad or a crunchy Asian slaw to add texture and balance. If you’re in the mood for dessert, a small serving of keto-friendly chocolate mousse would finish the meal beautifully.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place your keto orange chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools for this recipe:
- Skillet or Wok: For frying the chicken and sautéing the sauce.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: For flipping and serving the chicken.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions:
- Vegan: Substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan and use a plant-based soy sauce.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no adjustments needed.
- Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with coconut flour or a gluten-free flour blend for coating the chicken.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh oranges and add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the dish. In the winter, consider using mandarin oranges or blood oranges for a festive twist on the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
A: You can use store-bought orange juice, but ensure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.
Q: How long does it take to cook the chicken?
A: The chicken should take about 5-7 minutes to cook through, depending on the size of the pieces.
How To Make keto orange chicken recipe
Keto Orange Chicken
Keto Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Chinese takeout dish, transforming it into a low-carb, sugar-free meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the almond flour with salt and pepper. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the almond flour until fully coated.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the fresh orange juice, zest, erythritol, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 427Total Fat 26gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 138mgSodium 1157mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 4gSugar 10gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This keto orange chicken recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals. It’s a fantastic option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its ease of preparation and vibrant taste, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the incredible taste of orange chicken without the carbs, and share your cooking experience with friends and family!