Keto Orange Chicken – A Sweet and Savory Delight

Craving takeout but sticking to your keto goals? This Keto Orange Chicken is the perfect solution! It features tender chicken pieces coated in a zesty orange sauce that’s sweetened without the carbs. It’s quick, easy, and just as satisfying as your favorite restaurant dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb Alternative: All the flavors of classic orange chicken but keto-friendly.
• Easy to Make: Quick prep and simple steps make it ideal for weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: Zesty orange, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice combine for a perfectly balanced dish.

My Personal Experience

Orange chicken has always been my go-to takeout order, but when I started keto, I knew I had to find a way to recreate it. This recipe was a game-changer. The sauce is tangy, sweet, and sticky, just like the real thing, and the almond flour coating gives the chicken that perfect crunch. Pair it with cauliflower rice, and you’ll never miss the takeout version again!

Equipment Required

• Skillet or Frying Pan: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• Saucepan: Used to prepare the flavorful orange sauce.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the sauce ingredients and avoiding clumps when adding xanthan gum.
• Tongs or Spatula: To handle and flip the chicken pieces during frying.
• Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the cooked chicken.
• Oven (Optional): If baking instead of frying, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs or Breast: Chicken thighs add more flavor and stay juicier, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
• Almond Flour: Used for coating; crushed pork rinds also work as a substitute.
• Eggs: Helps the coating stick to the chicken.
• Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil: Ideal for frying due to their high smoke point.
• Orange Zest: Provides that signature citrusy flavor without the carbs from orange juice.
• Soy Sauce: For a savory base. Use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
• Sugar-Free Sweetener: Monk fruit or erythritol balances the tanginess of the orange zest.
• Garlic & Ginger: Enhance the depth of flavor.
• Xanthan Gum: Thickens the sauce while keeping it keto-friendly.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a touch of heat.

How to Make Keto Orange Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
   • In a bowl, whisk the eggs. In a separate dish, place almond flour for dredging.
   • Dip each chicken piece in the egg, then coat it with almond flour.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry the chicken pieces until golden and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes per side).
   • Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, sugar-free sweetener, orange zest, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
   • Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Sprinkle in xanthan gum while whisking to thicken the sauce.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Toss the cooked chicken in the orange sauce until well coated.
   • Serve immediately with steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the frying process to ensure tender and juicy pieces.
• Thicken Gradually: Add xanthan gum slowly to avoid clumps; whisking constantly helps.
• Adjust Sweetness: Start with less sweetener and adjust to your taste.

Storage and Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet on medium heat for best results, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes! Bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
• What can I use instead of xanthan gum? Arrowroot powder or guar gum can work, but they may add a few carbs.
• Is orange extract keto-friendly? Yes! A small amount of orange extract can enhance the orange flavor without adding carbs.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~300
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Net Carbs: 4g

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