Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This recipe for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for those looking to indulge without the guilt. With its tantalizing flavors and restaurant-quality taste, this dish can elevate any lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family meal, this sugar-free version ensures you can enjoy the zesty goodness of orange chicken while sticking to your low-carb lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy all the flavors of traditional orange chicken without the added sugars and carbs.
• Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside your favorite low-carb side dishes for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: Even picky eaters will love this sweet and tangy chicken dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Two shallow bowls
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken, contributing to that perfect texture.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly, especially when making your sauce.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping chicken and mincing garlic efficiently.

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)

For Coating

• ½ cup Carbalose ( -see post for details and alternatives )

For Cooking

• 3 tbs oil

For 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 Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil

Final Touches

• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum
• 2 Garlic (- 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: Create Dredging Station

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

Step 3: Heat Oil

Preheat your skillet with oil on medium-high heat. Meanwhile, dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off excess ingredients as needed.

Step 4: Cook 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. Once each piece is done, place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make Sauce

In a clean bowl, combine all remaining ingredients to make the sauce. Once chicken is cooked, pour sauce into the skillet and let it thicken while whisking as needed.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

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

Step 7: Serve

Top with optional sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving with cauliflower rice or as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with this Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional rice. Its mild flavor complements the orange chicken perfectly.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Serving the chicken on fresh spinach adds a nutritious element. The spinach will wilt slightly from the heat, creating a delicious contrast.

Over Zoodles

• Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, are a great way to enjoy this dish while keeping it low-carb. They soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.

With Broccoli

• Steamed or roasted broccoli offers a crunchy texture that balances the tenderness of the orange chicken. This combination is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

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 high-quality orange juice will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Avoid bottled juices for the best taste.

• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can modify the amount of sugar-free orange marmalade used in the sauce. Start with less and add more if needed.

• Ensure Proper Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding chicken. This helps achieve that desired golden-brown color and crispiness.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain its juiciness and enhances overall flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Pairing your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken with suitable sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish pairs wonderfully with the tangy flavors of orange chicken.

2. Sautéed Green Beans: Quick to prepare, sautéed green beans add both color and crunch to your plate, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal.

3. Stir-Fried Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stir-fried with garlic bring vibrant flavors that complement the sweetness of the chicken.

4. Cabbage Slaw: A light cabbage slaw with a vinegar dressing adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with the citrus notes of the orange chicken.

6. Riced Broccoli: Similar to cauliflower rice, riced broccoli is another low-carb option that absorbs sauces beautifully while adding fiber to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not prepping ingredients: Failing to prepare the chicken and garlic in advance can lead to a disorganized cooking process. Always chop and measure your ingredients before starting.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for optimal texture.
• Ignoring cooking temperatures: Using too high a heat can burn the sauce or undercook the chicken. Stick to medium-high heat and adjust as necessary.
• Skipping the dredging station: Not properly coating the chicken can lead to lack of flavor and texture. Ensure each piece is evenly dipped and dredged before frying.
• Neglecting sauce thickness: If you don’t whisk the sauce well while cooking, it may not thicken properly. Continuously whisk until you achieve the desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken to a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and stir in chicken until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for different flavors while keeping it low-carb.

Is Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete low-carb meal.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the mix for added nutrition and flavor without compromising on carbs.

Final Thoughts

Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is not just delicious but also versatile, making it a great option for various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sweetness level. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its amazing flavors guilt-free!