Keto Orange Chicken Recipe | Low Carb Orange Chicken

PUBLISHED February 4, 2026· MODIFIED February 4, 2026 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1387 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

Craving your favorite Chinese takeout but trying to stick to your low-carb lifestyle? This Keto Orange Chicken is everything you love about the classic dish. It has crispy chicken, tangy-sweet orange sauce, and bold flavor without the sugar, starch, or guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Option

Low in carbs, high in flavor. All the taste you expect, without the excessive sugar or cornstarch.
One-pan recipe. Minimal cleanup and no complicated steps.
30-minute dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Easy to customize. Make it spicier, tangier, or add veggies to suit your preferences.

Made in one pan and ready in about 30 minutes, this low-carb orange chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s also gluten-free, family-friendly, and easy to scale up for meal prep. No deep frying, no breading mess, just real flavor, fast.

What Does Keto Orange Chicken Taste Like?

Keto orange chicken has a bold, flavorful taste that closely mimics traditional takeout-style orange chicken, but without the sugar or heaviness.

The chicken is tender and juicy, often with a lightly crisp exterior, depending on whether it’s pan-seared or air-fried. The sauce is tangy and slightly sweet, thanks to fresh orange juice, zest, and a low-carb sweetener, with a savory backbone from soy sauce or coconut aminos. A hint of garlic, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes adds warmth and subtle spice.

The result is a well-balanced dish that’s citrusy, umami-rich, and satisfying. It’s perfect for low-carb eaters who still crave bold flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs– Main protein base; thighs for juiciness, breasts for leanness.
2 tablespoons almond flour– Optional light coating for texture and better sauce adhesion.
1/2 teaspoon salt– Seasons the chicken and enhances flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper– Adds mild heat and depth.
2 tablespoons avocado oil (or other high-smoke point oil)– For sautéing at high heat without burning.
1/4 cup orange juice– We’re using a very small amount for several servings. If you’re eating a strict keto diet, this may not work for you. If you’re just watching your carbs, this is a much lower carb version than the original.
1 tablespoon orange zest– Intensifies orange flavor without added carbs.
3 tablespoons soy sauce– Provides umami and balances sweetness.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar– Adds tang and brightness.
2 tablespoons erythritol– Replaces sugar for a keto-friendly sweetness.
1 teaspoon garlic– Adds aromatic depth.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger– Optional; adds fresh, spicy brightness.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes– Optional; brings subtle heat.
1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum– Thickens the sauce without carbs or starches.

How To Make Keto Orange Chicken

Prepare the Chicken. Toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a light coating of almond flour. This step adds a bit of texture but is completely optional if you prefer it breading-free.
Cook the Chicken. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add orange juice, zest, soy sauce, vinegar, sweetener, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce. Sprinkle xanthan gum over the sauce and whisk well. Let it simmer another 2–3 minutes until thickened to your liking. A little xanthan gum goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
Combine and Serve. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Stir to coat evenly in the orange sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve hot.

Tips And Tricks

Making Keto Orange Chicken at home is simple, but a few smart techniques can help you get restaurant-quality results without the carbs. Here are the top tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful, well-textured, and perfectly sauced every time:

Use chicken thighs for juicier results. They stay tender during high-heat cooking and absorb the sauce well.
Cut chicken into even-sized pieces. This helps ensure uniform cooking and prevents dryness.
Optional flour coating helps sauce cling. A light dusting of coconut or almond flour adds texture and helps the sauce stick, but can be skipped for ultra-low-carb versions.
Cook chicken in batches if needed. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear and prevent steaming.

Variations

This Keto Orange Chicken recipe is flexible and easy to adapt to your preferences. Whether you want to change the protein, increase the veggies, or adjust the heat, these variations let you make it your own without straying from your low-carb goals:

Use chicken breast instead of thighs– A leaner option that still works well, especially if you prefer white meat.
Make it spicy– Add extra red pepper flakes, sriracha, or diced jalapeños for more heat.
Add low-carb vegetables– Stir in sautéed broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers to make it a one-pan meal.
Try shrimp or pork– This sauce pairs well with other proteins for a fresh twist.

What To Eat With Keto Orange Chicken

Keto Orange Chicken is flavorful and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right low-carb sides can help create a complete, well-rounded meal without adding unnecessary carbs. Here are some excellent options:

How Long Does It Last?

Keto orange chicken can be stored safely and still taste great for several days if handled properly. Once cooked and fully cooled, it should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to 4 days.

When reheating, you can warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens in the fridge.

Can You Freeze It?

If you’d like to store it longer, keto orange chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months, ideally without the sauce to preserve texture.

Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving, then toss with freshly made sauce for the best flavor and consistency.

More Low Carb Asian Dishes

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