Take a trip down memory lane with me, Anne from Beyond the Bayou Blog, as we savor the comforting flavors of my beloved family recipe Low-Carb Orange Chicken.
A keto-friendly twist on the classic favorite. Bursting with tangy citrus flavors and tender chicken, this recipe offers a guilt-free dining experience.
Say goodbye to carb-laden takeout and hello to a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Each bite is a fusion of succulent chicken coated in a luscious orange glaze, tantalizing your taste buds with every mouthful.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply seeking a wholesome meal option, our Low-Carb Orange Chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals on track.
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken is a popular dish often found at American Chinese takeout restaurants. Originally inspired by a dish from China’s Hunan province, it features battered chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sticky orange sauce.
While traditional orange chicken isn’t keto-friendly due to the sugar and carbs, you can make some simple changes to create a low-carb version. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors without the extra carbs!
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
- Healthier Version of a Favorite: This keto orange chicken is a healthier twist on the classic Chinese takeout dish. It uses real, whole ingredients without any added sugars or unhealthy oils.
- Delicious and Flavorful: The chicken is tender and juicy, coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy orange glaze that bursts with citrus flavor. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Pair this dish with cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal. It also goes great with steamed vegetables, making it a versatile option.
- Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in just 50 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a quick, delicious dinner on the table in no time.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This keto orange chicken is great for meal prepping. Portion it into containers, and you have a tasty and convenient lunch or dinner option for the week.
Try More Chicken Recipes!
- Mexican Shredded Chicken
- Crispy Chicken Thigh
- Three Cup Chicken
- Easy Flavorful Chicken GyrosÂ
- Chicken Stir FryÂ
Keto Orange Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Large frying pan
- Spatula
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Sugar Free Smucker’s Orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup Rays No Sugar Added BBQ sauce
- 3 large chicken breasts cubed
- salt and pepper to taste
- Optional chicken coating:
- 1/4 cup baking powder
- Olive oil or Avocado oil for frying
Instructions
- Cut chicken breast into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Optionally, coat chicken cubes lightly with baking powder for better sauce adhesion.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado or olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry chicken for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until cooked through and tender.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the orange sauce by combining sugar-free marmalade and BBQ sauce in the pan over low to medium heat until bubbling. Then add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to coat.
- Optional: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Tips You Should Try!
- Cut the Chicken Evenly: Make sure to cut your chicken into uniform pieces. This helps it cook evenly, so you don’t end up with some pieces overcooked and others undercooked.
- Check the Cooking Temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Thicken the Sauce: If your sauce turns out too thin, just let it simmer on low heat for a bit longer. This will help it thicken up nicely.
- Garnish Creatively: After coating the chicken in the orange sauce, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. You can also add chopped green onions or a few orange zest curls for extra flavor and a pop of color.
- Use Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives your keto orange chicken an unbeatable, vibrant flavor. It’s worth the extra effort!
- Opt for Coconut Aminos: If you’re sensitive to soy or prefer a gluten-free option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It adds a great depth of flavor and keeps the dish gluten-free.
What to Serve with Low-Carb Orange Chicken?
Store Your Recipe This Way for Later!
- Storing: Pop any leftovers into the fridge, covered, and they’ll stay good for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Got some extra orange chicken? No worries! Put it in a sealed container and toss it in the freezer. It’ll stay tasty for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, there are a couple of ways to reheat. Zap it in the microwave in 30-second bursts until it’s warmed through, or heat it up in a non-stick pan for that fresh-out-of-the-pan taste. Easy-peasy!
