Healthy Keto General Tso Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving the bold flavors of General Tso chicken but want to stick to your healthy keto lifestyle, this recipe is for you! Traditional General Tso chicken is often battered and fried, making it a no-go for those watching their carbs. Luckily, with a few simple swaps, you can create a delicious, guilt-free version that is just as satisfying. This healthy keto General Tso chicken recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Swerve sweetener (or another keto-friendly sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or xanthan gum for a keto-friendly thickener)
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until well covered.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, Swerve sweetener, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce in the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the broccoli and bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Enjoy your healthy keto General Tso chicken with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Why Choose This Healthy Keto General Tso Chicken Recipe?
This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and lower in carbs than its traditional counterpart. By using almond and coconut flour instead of regular flour, we can achieve that crispy texture while keeping the carbs in check. The sauce is sweet, tangy, and full of flavor, making it a hit for anyone, keto dieter or not!
Variations and Customizations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. If you prefer chicken breast, feel free to swap it in for thighs. You can also add more vegetables like snow peas, carrots, or even zucchini. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or some chili paste to the sauce.
Meal Prep and Storage
This healthy keto General Tso chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free since it doesn’t require any dairy ingredients. Just make sure to check the labels on your soy sauce and sweetener to confirm they are dairy-free.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
For a complete meal, serve this healthy keto General Tso chicken with cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with other low-carb side dishes to keep your meal balanced.
3. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different proteins may require different cooking durations.
4. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili paste to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This healthy keto General Tso chicken recipe allows you to indulge in a beloved dish without compromising your dietary goals. With its rich flavors and satisfying crunch, it’s a meal that everyone in the family will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own! Enjoy your cooking journey and happy eating!
