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Keto Orange Chicken Recipe

By: Author Anne Carter

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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?

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!

Keto Orange Chicken Recipe Low-Carb Delight!

Keto Orange Chicken Recipe

Delicious meal that the whole family LOVES! Double the recipe to save time in the kitchen!
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 159kcal
Author: Anne Carter
Servings: 6

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

Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 5g | Fiber: 1g
Keyword Best low carb orange chicken recipe, Easy low carb orange chicken’, low carb orange chicken, low carb orange chicken recipe

Tips You Should Try!

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Use Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives your keto orange chicken an unbeatable, vibrant flavor. It’s worth the extra effort!
  6. 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?

What to Serve with Keto 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!
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