Keto Orange Chicken Recipe: A Low-Carb Twist on a Classic Favorite

Introduction:

Craving the sweet and tangy flavors of orange chicken while staying true to your keto lifestyle? This Keto Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect solution!

Made with tender chicken pieces—whether you prefer juicy thighs or lean chicken breast—this dish is coated in almond flour for a crispy texture and tossed in a rich, low-carb orange sauce. The combination of fresh citrus, soy sauce, and keto-friendly sweeteners creates an irresistible glaze that will have you coming back for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this healthy twist on a classic favorite proves that you can enjoy your favorite flavors without breaking ketosis.

Ingredients for Keto Orange Chicken Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound (450g) chicken pieces (chicken breast or thighs), cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 cup almond flour (for coating)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or any keto-friendly cooking oil)

For the Orange Sauce:

• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (from about 1 small orange)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
• 1-2 tablespoons erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or another keto-friendly sweetener
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water

Optional Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Thinly sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Directions for Keto Orange Chicken Recipe

 Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well.
2. In a bowl, mix almond flour with garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken pieces in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres.

 

 Cook the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

 

Prepare the Orange Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, mix the orange zest and orange juice. Add soy sauce or coconut aminos. Then, add erythritol, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the sweetener dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, mix xanthan gum with water until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the sauce to thicken it. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

 

 Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet over low heat.
2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

 

 Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Keto Orange Chicken to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite keto-friendly sides, such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed broccoli.

Storage Instructions

To store your Keto Orange Chicken, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The chicken pieces, whether made from chicken breast or thighs, can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

For best results, store the orange sauce separately in a smaller container to preserve its flavor and consistency. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the almond flour coating when reheating.

When you are ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together. You can do this on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally while reheating. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or soy sauce to restore its original texture.

Tips for Achieving Maximum Flavor

To get the most out of your Keto Orange Chicken, focus on balancing bold flavors and textures. Start by using fresh orange zest and juice for the orange sauce to create a vibrant, tangy base. Pair this with a high-quality soy sauce or coconut aminos to add depth and savory richness.

Season the chicken pieces generously before coating them in almond flour to ensure every bite is well-seasoned. When cooking, fry the chicken in avocado oil. Cook it until it is golden and crispy. This improves the flavor and texture. Finally, simmer the sauce until it thickens to a glaze-like consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken. Don’t skip garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions—they add a final layer of flavor and visual appeal.

FAQ

1. Is soy sauce keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as it doesn’t contain added sugar, soy sauce is keto-friendly. For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos.

2. Is stir fry high in carbs?

Traditional stir fries can be high in carbs due to sugary sauces and starchy vegetables. To keep it keto, use bell peppers, green onions, and a sugar-free sauce.

3. How can I thicken the sauce without adding carbs?

Use ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum instead of cornstarch. This will give you a thick, glossy sauce while keeping it low-carb.

4. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes! You can swap chicken breasts for beef, shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

5. What can I serve with keto stir fry to make it more filling?

Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or shirataki noodles for a satisfying low-carb meal.

6. How do I store and reheat leftover stir fry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the texture fresh and crispy.