Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken

When I first discovered the magic of Keto Orange Chicken, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. It was a particularly chilly evening, and I was in the mood for comfort food that wouldn’t derail my diet. The combination of tangy orange and savory chicken was too tempting to resist, but I also wanted to keep it low-carb. This recipe transformed my favorite takeout dish into a keto-friendly delight, and I was thrilled to bring the flavors of the Chinese kitchen right into my own home.

As I started experimenting in the kitchen, each step felt like an adventure. The aroma of simmering orange juice combined with garlic filled the air, making my mouth water. The crispy bites of chicken coated in this luscious sauce are not only satisfying but also guilt-free. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with friends and family, knowing that they would be just as impressed as I was with the results. The best part? You can whip it up on a busy weeknight without breaking a sweat!

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Keto Orange Chicken. I promise, it’ll become a staple in your home as it did in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
320 kcal
Protein:
35 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
15 g
Tools Used:
Food Processor, Skillet, Whisk, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Keto Orange Chicken

Healthy Yet Indulgent

The first thing that makes this Keto Orange Chicken stand out is its amazing balance of flavors. You get the satisfying taste of traditional orange chicken but without the sugar-laden sauces that usually accompany it. The sweetener substitute gives you that sweetness without the carbs, making this dish a guilt-free pleasure.

Quick and Easy

Who doesn’t appreciate a quick meal? This recipe can be prepared in no time, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With only a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who loves to meal prep or needs quick lunch options, this Keto Orange Chicken is perfect for you. It stores well, and the flavors only get better as they sit. You can make a big batch and portion it out for the week, making healthy eating a breeze.

Kid-Friendly

This dish isn’t just for adults; kids love it too! The sweet and tangy flavors will delight their taste buds, and you won’t have to worry about them consuming too much sugar. It’s an excellent way to introduce them to low-carb eating without sacrificing flavor.

Versatile Uses

The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to your preferences. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a complete meal, or pair it with roasted vegetables for a nutritious side. You can even make lettuce wraps with the chicken for a fun twist!

Ingredients for Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken

The ingredients for this Keto Orange Chicken are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The key players here are the chicken and the homemade orange sauce, which harmonize beautifully.

  • 1 1/2 pounds skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and a juicy texture.
  • 3 large eggs: These help create a batter that clings nicely to the chicken, giving it a crispy coating.
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness to the batter.
  • 1 cup coconut flour: A great low-carb alternative to regular flour, it creates a crispy crust.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a bit of heat to balance the sweetness.
  • 3 tablespoons oil to fry: Needed for frying the chicken, giving it that delicious crispy texture.
  • 1 cup orange juice, no added sugar: The main flavoring agent in this dish.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar substitute or granulated sweetener of choice: This sweetens the sauce without the carbs.
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides umami depth and saltiness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Introduces wonderful aromatic flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional): Thickens the sauce.

Instructions for Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken

Making Keto Orange Chicken is a fun and rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to guide you through the steps. Each phase of preparation is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture and rich flavor. Follow these steps closely to ensure your dish turns out just right.

  1. Start by preparing the sauce. In a small saucepan, add the orange juice, brown sugar substitute, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. Heat over medium heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to let the flavors meld together nicely.
  2. Add the xanthan gum to the sauce and whisk vigorously, ensuring there are no clumps. The sauce should start to thicken as it simmers. Let everything simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes, until it’s thick and sticky. This will yield a delicious coating for the chicken.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs and heavy cream. Whisk until well blended. This mixture will help the chicken pieces adhere to the coconut flour.
  4. Add the chopped chicken breasts into the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. This is a crucial step for that crispy coating.
  5. On a large plate, combine the coconut flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
  6. Individually, take each piece of chicken and dip it into the coconut flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off any excess flour before frying.
  7. In a large pan, add the oil and place it over medium heat. You want the oil to reach around 350F before adding the chicken. This will ensure you get that golden, crispy texture.
  8. Once the oil is hot, add enough chicken pieces to fill the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional minute. Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  9. Repeat the frying process until all the chicken has been cooked. Once you’ve finished frying, toss the crispy chicken pieces through the orange sauce until they’re well coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Things Worth Knowing

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 350F before frying. This will help achieve a crispy texture.
  • Xanthan Gum: This ingredient is optional but highly recommended for thickening the sauce if you prefer a thicker consistency.
  • Resting Time: Allow the cooked chicken to rest on a paper towel for a few minutes to absorb excess oil before tossing in the sauce.
  • Serving Temperature: For the best taste and texture, serve the Keto Orange Chicken immediately after coating it in the sauce.

Recipe Tips about Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken

Every recipe has some tips that can elevate it to the next level. Here are some key pointers for your Keto Orange Chicken:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Make sure to store the sauce separately if possible to preserve the chicken’s texture.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Keto Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: When reheating, either microwave the chicken and sauce in 30-second spurts or reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Avoid overcooking to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
  • Pairing: Pair this dish with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that stays within your dietary goals.
  • Variations: Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli during the final stages of cooking for added nutrition and color.

How to Serve Keto Orange Chicken

When it comes to serving Keto Orange Chicken, the presentation and accompanying dishes can make a big difference.

  • With Cauliflower Rice: Serve the orange chicken over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice for a delicious and low-carb meal.
  • In Lettuce Wraps: For a fun twist, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing alternative.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side that complements the dish.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings.
  • Seasonal Occasions: Enjoy this dish year-round, but it’s especially great in the summer when you want something light yet flavorful.
  • Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring you enjoy the flavor for longer.

FAQ

Keto Orange Chicken stands out from traditional orange chicken by using low-carb ingredients. Instead of using sugar-laden sauces, this recipe uses sugar substitutes to achieve the same sweet and tangy flavor without the carbs. This makes it a great choice for those following a keto diet while still enjoying their favorite flavors.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the chicken and toss it in the sauce for a quick and satisfying dish.

To maintain the crispiness of the chicken, make sure to fry it at the correct temperature. The oil should be around 350F when frying. After cooking, allow the chicken to rest on a paper towel to absorb excess oil, which helps keep it crispy.

Keto Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. The dish is quite versatile, allowing you to get creative with your sides while keeping it low-carb.

Conclusion

This Keto Orange Chicken recipe beautifully combines the flavors we love with a low-carb twist, making it special for anyone looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle. I encourage you to give this dish a try; it’s sure to impress both your taste buds and your waistline. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, and make it a regular in your meal rotation!

Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken

Craving a delicious dinner that won't ruin your diet? Try this Keto Orange Chicken! With its perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, this easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings without the guilt. You won't believe how simple it is to make!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Asian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Frying Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup coconut flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3 tablespoons oil to fry
  • 1 cup orange juice no added sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar substitute or granulated sweetener of choice
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon xanthan gum optional

Instructions
 

  • Start by preparing the sauce. In a small saucepan, add the orange juice, brown sugar substitute, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. Heat for 3-4 minutes. Add the xanthan gum and whisk vigorously, ensuring there are no clumps. Let everything simmer for 5-6 minutes, until thick and sticky.
  • In a bowl, combine the eggs and heavy cream then add the chopped chicken. On a large plate, add the coconut flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
  • Individually, dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  • Add the oil to a large pan and place over medium heat. Once it reaches around 350F, add enough chicken to fill the pan without overcrowding. Fry the chicken for 2-3 minutes, before flipping and cooking for a further minute. Remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towel. Repeat the process until all the chicken has been fried.
  • Once all the chicken has been cooked, toss it through the orange sauce until covered, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Only add this if you want a super thick sauce.
  • Tip 2: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
  • Tip 3: Place the cooled orange chicken in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
  • Tip 4: Either microwave the chicken and sauce in 30-second spurts or reheat it in a non-stick pan.
Keyword easy keto recipes, healthy orange chicken, Keto Orange Chicken, Low Carb Dinner

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