Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant meal right to your kitchen. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe is not only low in carbs but also free from sugar, making it a healthier choice for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken coated in a zesty orange sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Health-Conscious: This dish is sugar-free and low-carb, making it suitable for various diets including keto.
• Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over cauliflower rice or simply on its own for a satisfying meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The vibrant flavors of orange juice and zest combined with garlic create a mouthwatering sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty twist on classic orange chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Shallow bowls
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps in achieving a smooth consistency when mixing sauces.
• Shallow bowls: Perfect for creating a dredging station to coat the chicken evenly.

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Ingredients

This delicious recipe for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is so good that it tastes just like the real restaurant version.

For the Chicken

• 4 Chicken Breast (-skinless, boneless, cut up)
• 2 Eggs
• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum (- or as needed)
• ½ cup Carbalose ( -see post for details and alternatives )

For Cooking

• 3 tbs oil

For the Sauce

• 1 tsp Orange Zest
• ¼ cup Orange Juice ( -see post for details and alternatives )
• 3 tbsp Sugar Free Orange Marmalade ( -see post for details and alternatives )
• 3 tbsp Rice Apple Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum

For Flavoring

• 2 Garlic cloves (- minced)

How to Make Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if not already done.
• Mince the garlic to prepare it for the sauce.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station

• Create two shallow bowls: one with whisked eggs and another with combined flour alternative and xanthan gum.

Step 3: Heat Your Skillet

• Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat with oil.
• Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Cook each piece in the heated skillet until browned on all sides and no longer pink inside.
• Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

• In a clean bowl, use a whisk to combine all remaining ingredients until well mixed.
• Pour this sauce into the skillet after removing cooked chicken.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

• Reduce heat to low and return cooked chicken to skillet.
• Cook together until warmed through, ensuring all pieces are well coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

• Optionally top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving alongside cauliflower rice or as desired.

Enjoy this flavorful Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Serving Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and textures.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It soaks up the delicious orange sauce, making each bite satisfying.

As a Lettuce Wrap

• Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy bite. This option is perfect for a fun, interactive meal.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Adding toasted sesame seeds gives a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange sauce.

With Sliced Green Onions

• Chopped green onions add color and a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish while providing a fresh element.

With Broccoli or Mixed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or a mix of stir-fried vegetables can add nutrition and variety to your plate, balancing out the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh chicken breast and high-quality orange juice will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the amount of sugar-free orange marmalade.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds more flavor compared to pre-minced options. Don’t skip on this ingredient!
• Let Sauce Thicken: Allowing the sauce to thicken properly will create a nicer coating for your chicken.
• Experiment with Aromatics: Consider adding other aromatics like ginger or red pepper flakes for added depth and spice.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken can enhance your meal’s nutritional value and flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles are an excellent low-carb substitute for pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Simply seasoned and roasted asparagus adds crunch and nutrients without extra carbs.
3. Stir-Fried Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add sweetness and vibrancy; sauté them quickly in sesame oil for extra flavor.
4. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic makes for a comforting side that’s still low in carbs.
5. Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw can provide crunch and contrast to the sweet orange chicken.
6. Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans sautéed with almonds offer both texture and flavor that complement the dish beautifully.
7. Spaghetti Squash: A fun alternative to pasta, spaghetti squash has a mild flavor that pairs well with sauces.
8. Riced Broccoli: Similar to cauliflower rice, riced broccoli is nutritious and versatile, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the dredging step: Dredging the chicken is essential for a crispy texture. Make sure to coat each piece in the egg mixture and then in the flour alternative thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many pieces at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
• Neglecting seasoning: The flavor might fall flat if you don’t season properly. Use enough soy sauce and other ingredients in your sauce for a well-rounded taste.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking on too low a heat may result in soggy chicken. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden crust.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: If you rush this step, you may end up with a watery dish. Allow time for the sauce to bubble and reduce into a thick glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it in to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken.

What can I use instead of Carbalose?

You can use almond flour or coconut flour as alternatives. Both will provide a similar texture while keeping it low carb.

Can I customize the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices or additional flavors like ginger or chili flakes for a unique twist on your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce when mixing your sauce ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy this healthy twist on a classic favorite!