Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This delicious Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week. It captures the essence of your favorite restaurant dish without the added sugars and carbs, making it a healthy alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish that offers a fantastic blend of sweet and savory notes while keeping your dietary goals in check.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: This recipe is sugar-free and low carb, making it ideal for those following keto or low-carb diets.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty dish quickly.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of orange juice and marmalade creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with cauliflower rice or on its own for a satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: They are essential for preparing your dredging station and mixing sauces without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when making sauces.

Ingredients

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

Chicken Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breast (-skinless, boneless, cut up)

Egg Mixture Ingredients

• 2 Eggs

Dredging Mixture Ingredients

• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum (- or as needed)
• ½ cup Carbalose ( -see post for details and alternatives)

Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tbs oil
• 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

Aromatics

• 2 Garlic cloves (- minced)

How to Make Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Prepare the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces if it has not been done yet. Also mince your garlic to get it ready for adding to the sauce.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station

Create a two shallow bowl dredging station with the whisked eggs in one bowl and the flour alternative mixed with xanthan gum in the second bowl.

Step 3: Preheat Your Skillet

Preheat your skillet with oil on medium high heat. Meanwhile, dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture followed by dredging it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess ingredients as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken in the heated skillet until browned and no longer pink inside. While cooking, line a plate or rimmed baking sheet with paper towels. Transfer cooked chicken to paper towels to drain excess oil between batches.

Step 5: Make The Sauce

Use a clean whisk to combine all remaining ingredients in another bowl to create your sauce. Once all chicken pieces are cooked, transfer this sauce mixture into your skillet. Stir until thickened, whisking as necessary.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn down the heat to low and add cooked chicken back into the skillet with sauce. Cook until everything is warm through and chicken is fully coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Top with optional sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving with cauliflower rice or as desired. Enjoy your healthy Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Serving your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice makes a perfect low-carb base for the orange chicken. It absorbs the sauce well and adds a nice texture.

Over Zoodles

• Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, are a fantastic alternative to traditional pasta. They provide a light and fresh complement to the chicken.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Wrap the orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun and healthy finger food option. Add some sliced veggies for extra crunch.

On a Salad

• Serving the chicken over mixed greens creates a colorful salad option. Drizzle with a sesame vinaigrette for added flavor.

With Stir-Fried Veggies

• Pairing the chicken with stir-fried vegetables enhances nutrition and adds vibrant colors to your plate. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work well.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Make a larger batch and portion it out for meal prep throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and stays flavorful.

How to Perfect Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Perfecting your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Choose quality chicken – Using fresh, high-quality chicken breast ensures tenderness and flavor in each bite.
• Adjust sauce thickness – If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply add more xanthan gum gradually while whisking until desired consistency is reached.
• Balance flavors – Taste your sauce before adding the chicken; adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or vinegar if needed.
• Cook in batches – Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken. This allows for better browning and prevents steaming.
• Allow marinating time – For added flavor, let your chicken marinate in the sauce ingredients for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Garnish thoughtfully – Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions just before serving for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken can enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – Creamy and rich, mashed cauliflower provides a comforting side that complements the orange chicken well.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add a savory crunch, balancing the sweetness of the orange sauce perfectly.
3. Cabbage Stir Fry – Quick-cooked cabbage with garlic and ginger offers great texture along with essential nutrients.
4. Broccoli Salad – A crunchy broccoli salad with sunflower seeds adds freshness and pairs nicely with the orange flavors.
5. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic delivers iron and vitamins while being low in carbs.
6. Eggplant Fries – Baked eggplant fries seasoned with herbs provide a unique twist while keeping things low-carb.
7. Zucchini Chips – Crunchy baked zucchini chips make an excellent snack-like side that complements the meal’s flavors.
8. Riced Broccoli – This simple side dish works as an alternative to rice, providing fiber without extra carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Always opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast for the best texture and flavor. Other cuts may lead to a greasy dish.
• Overcooking chicken: Cook the chicken just until browned and no longer pink inside. Overcooking can dry it out and affect taste.
• Skipping the dredging step: Dredging ensures a crispy coating. Don’t skip this step; it’s key for that restaurant-style finish.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is crucial in cooking, especially with low-carb recipes. Use measuring spoons and cups to get it right.
• Neglecting sauce thickening: Ensure you whisk the sauce well as it cooks to achieve the right consistency. A thin sauce won’t cling to the chicken properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries regarding Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option while maintaining a low-carb profile.

What can I serve with Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that adheres to low-carb diets.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of sweetness by using more or less sugar-free orange marmalade.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for easy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. This recipe makes an excellent choice for dinner, ensuring satisfaction without compromising your dietary goals. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dish!