Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is not only easy to make but also caters to those looking for healthier options without sacrificing taste. With its sweet and tangy sauce, this dish will impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 50 minutes, you can enjoy a homemade meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of orange juice, zest, and marmalade creates a vibrant flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
• Healthy Twist: With low carbs and sugar-free ingredients, this recipe fits perfectly into various dietary plans without compromising on taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with cauliflower rice or serve it as part of a larger feast; this dish adapts well to different occasions.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of orange chicken make it appealing for children and picky eaters alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to streamline your preparation. Having everything ready will make the cooking experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken, resulting in a delicious texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for dredging keeps your ingredients organized and prevents messy preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly, especially when making sauces, ensuring no lumps remain.

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 the Sauce

• 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 Vinegar

Additional Flavorings

• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum
• 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:
1. Whisk the eggs in one bowl.
2. In the second bowl, whisk together flour alternative and xanthan gum.

Step 3: Preheat Your Skillet

Preheat your skillet with oil on medium-high heat. Dip the first piece of chicken in the egg mixture then dredge it in the flour mix, shaking off any excess.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken in the heated skillet until browned and no longer pink inside. Line a plate or rimmed baking sheet with paper towels. When each piece is done cooking, place them onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Use a clean whisk to combine together all remaining ingredients to make the sauce. Once chicken is cooked, transfer sauce into skillet and cook until thickened, whisking as necessary.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn heat down to low and add cooked chicken back into skillet. Cook until warm and ensure all chicken pieces are 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 delicious 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 your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish that will impress family and friends alike.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It complements the orange chicken perfectly, soaking up the flavorful sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh and crunchy option, serve the orange chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a wonderful texture and makes for an easy-to-eat meal.

Over Zoodles

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) are another fantastic low-carb side. They offer a light and healthy base for the savory orange chicken.

With Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutritious boost. The slight bitterness of broccoli balances the sweetness of the orange sauce beautifully.

As Part of a Salad

• Create a refreshing salad by adding chopped orange chicken over mixed greens, avocado, and your favorite low-carb dressing. This makes for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

How to Perfect Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

To make your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality spices enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of sugar-free marmalade according to your preference.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure chicken is cooked just right—overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to add a splash more soy sauce or vinegar for an extra kick.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to three days.

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. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and rich, this dish mimics traditional mashed potatoes while staying low in carbs.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a delicious crunch.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Fast and easy to prepare, sautéed spinach adds iron and fiber with minimal calories.
4. Cabbage Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked cabbage tossed with garlic and sesame oil complements the flavors of orange chicken well.
5. Ratatouille: A medley of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant offers colorful nutrition alongside your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices dressed with vinegar give a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
7. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are not only tasty but also serve as a fun way to include veggies in your meal.
8. Spicy Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with chili flakes provide a nice spicy kick that pairs well with sweet sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the dredging process: Dredging the chicken properly ensures a crispy coating. Don’t skip this step; it adds texture and flavor.
• Using too much oil: While oil is necessary for cooking, using too much can make the dish greasy. Measure carefully and use just enough to coat the pan.
• Not preheating the skillet: Failing to preheat your skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow your skillet to heat before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just browned and no longer pink inside to keep it tender.
• Neglecting sauce consistency: The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the chicken. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer while whisking it together.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions add visual appeal and flavor. Don’t skip them as they enhance the overall dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.

Freezing Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, reheat over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other meats in Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use turkey or beef instead of chicken if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken spicier?

To add spice, incorporate chili flakes or sriracha into the sauce while mixing. Start with a small amount and adjust by taste.

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

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete meal that’s still low in carbs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?

Yes, fresh orange juice provides a vibrant flavor that enhances your dish even more!

Final Thoughts

Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or adjust the sauce’s sweetness by varying the sugar-free marmalade used. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping ahead of time—your taste buds will thank you!