Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

This delicious recipe for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without the extra carbs or sugar. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. With its tangy orange sauce and crispy chicken, you won’t believe this dish is both healthy and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: Bursting with fresh orange zest and juice, this dish offers a delightful taste that rivals your favorite takeout.
• Healthy Option: Enjoy guilt-free dining with no added sugars or high-carb ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: With just 50 minutes from prep to table, it’s great for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile: Pair it with cauliflower rice or use as a filling in wraps for a low-carb treat.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken, gather your tools and get ready for some cooking fun.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing sauces smoothly, ensuring all flavors blend well together.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Having a stable surface to cut chicken makes preparation safe and efficient.

Ingredients

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

Main Ingredients

• 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)
• 3 tbs oil

Flavor Enhancers

• 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)

Sauces & Seasonings

• 3 tbsp Rice Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tsp Xanthan Gum

Aromatics

• 2 Garlic (minced)

How to Make Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces if not already done. Mince your garlic so it’s ready to add to the sauce later.

Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station

Create two shallow bowls; whisk the eggs in one bowl. In the second bowl, combine the Carbalose flour alternative with xanthan gum.

Step 3: Preheat Skillet

Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat with oil. While it’s heating up, dip each piece of chicken first into the egg mixture then dredge it in the flour mix, shaking off any excess.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Cook the coated chicken in the skillet until browned on all sides and no longer pink inside. Prepare a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil when finished cooking.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

In a clean bowl, whisk together all remaining ingredients to create your sauce. After chicken is cooked, pour this sauce into the skillet and allow it to thicken while whisking occasionally.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Reduce heat to low and add cooked chicken back into the skillet with sauce. Stir gently until everything is heated through, ensuring chicken pieces are fully coated.

Step 7: Serve

Optionally top your dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving over cauliflower rice or as desired. Enjoy your homemade Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It absorbs the flavors of the orange chicken beautifully.

Over Zoodles

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) provide a fresh and healthy base for your orange chicken, adding texture and flavor without the carbs.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun and interactive meal. This option is perfect for keeping it light and refreshing.

Accompanied by Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli adds a nutritious and colorful touch to your plate, complementing the flavors of the orange chicken.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh side salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken while providing additional nutrients.

How to Perfect Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Perfecting Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking methods. Follow these tips for amazing results.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality spices make a big difference in flavor. Opt for organic where possible.

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste, making it even more flavorful.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken browns nicely, creating a delicious texture.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add more sugar-free orange marmalade until you reach your desired taste.

• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to whisk continuously while cooking the sauce to achieve the perfect thick consistency without lumps.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

Pairing your Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken with delicious sides can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and flavorful, this classic mashed potato substitute is low in carbs but high in satisfaction.

2. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add crunch and freshness, enhancing your meal’s overall presentation.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent companion to orange chicken.

4. Cabbage Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of cabbage with garlic provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the saucy chicken.

5. Radish Chips: These baked chips are a fun snack that can serve as a crunchy side, offering a unique twist on traditional potato chips.

6. Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with chili flakes can balance out the sweetness of the orange chicken beautifully.

7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini are not only tasty but also low in carbs—perfect when paired with your orange chicken.

8. Eggplant Parmesan Bites: Baked eggplant slices topped with cheese offer a delightful cheesy flavor that complements this dish wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the dredging station: Not using a dredging station can result in uneven coating. Make sure to dip the chicken in egg first, then coat it well with the flour alternative.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Monitor the cooking time closely until it’s no longer pink inside.

• Ignoring sauce thickness: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken properly, it may be too watery. Whisk frequently until you achieve a nice consistency.

• Using incorrect ingredients: Substituting key ingredients may alter flavor and texture. Always use recommended items like sugar-free orange marmalade for best results.

• Not letting chicken rest: Failing to let cooked chicken sit on paper towels can lead to sogginess. Ensure it’s drained before adding it to the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe truly sugar-free?

Absolutely! The recipe uses sugar-free orange marmalade and other low-carb ingredients to keep it healthy without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken?

This recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or chili sauce for an extra kick if desired.

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

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

Final Thoughts

Sugar Free Low Carb Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a healthier version of your favorite takeout!