Table of Contents
Description
This Keto Orange Chicken is sweet, tangy, and sugar-free—an easy low-carb dinner that tastes just like takeout without the carbs!
Introduction
If you’ve ever gone keto and immediately missed your favorite Chinese takeout, this Keto Orange Chicken recipe is about to make your day. 🍊🐔 It delivers that familiar sweet-and-tangy orange flavor you love, but without the sugar, starches, or carb overload that comes with traditional orange chicken.
This recipe was created for real life. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, satisfying enough for the whole family, and healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free. The chicken turns out golden and crispy, while the glossy orange sauce is bright, sticky, and bursting with flavor—all while staying completely low-carb and keto-friendly.
Even better, this dish doesn’t rely on bottled sauces or hidden sugars. Everything is made from simple, clean ingredients you can feel good about serving. If you’re looking for an easy keto dinner recipe, a healthy low-carb alternative to takeout, or a fun way to keep your keto meals exciting, this recipe checks every box.
Trust me—after one bite, you won’t miss the original version at all.
Recipe Equipment
To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, you’ll need:
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Zester or fine grater (for orange zest)
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick Overview)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Diet Type | Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free |
| Net Carbs | ~5g per serving |
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Avocado oil, for frying
For the Keto Orange Sauce
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (small amount for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup sugar-free orange marmalade or keto sweetener blend
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (for thickening)
Why These Ingredients Work:
Almond flour and Parmesan create a crispy coating without carbs, while real orange zest delivers bold citrus flavor without added sugar
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier than breast meat and more forgiving during cooking.
- Orange Juice: A small amount goes a long way—zest provides most of the flavor.
- Sweetener: Monk fruit or erythritol blends work best for a clean, sugar-free taste.
- Xanthan Gum: Thickens the sauce just like cornstarch, but keto-approved.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat evenly in the flour mixture.
Step 2: Fry Until Golden
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in batches and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
In the same skillet, lower heat slightly. Add orange juice, zest, sweetener, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Whisk and simmer for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle in xanthan gum while whisking continuously. The sauce will thicken quickly into a glossy, sticky consistency.
Step 5: Combine & Coat
Return the crispy chicken to the skillet. Toss gently until each piece is coated in that irresistible orange sauce.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Remove from heat and garnish if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a classic takeout feel
- Pair with steamed broccoli or snap peas
- Add a side of keto fried rice
- Enjoy on its own for a quick low-carb bowl
Pro Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy: Air-fry the chicken at 400°F for 10–12 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Sauce and chicken store well separately.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or pork for variety.
- Sweeter Sauce: Adjust sweetener to taste without adding carbs.
- Kid-Friendly: Skip ginger for a milder flavor kids love.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 410
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
(Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.)
This Keto Orange Chicken proves that you don’t have to give up bold flavors to eat healthy. It’s crispy, tangy, and incredibly satisfying—everything you love about takeout, made better at home. 🧡
If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share it with friends who love easy, low-carb comfort food!