15 Delicious Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Chicken Recipes
Chicken is a versatile and beloved protein that can be prepared in countless ways. But when it comes to achieving that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat, all cooking methods reign supreme, from roasting, grilling, and baking to frying, poaching, and steaming. All techniques deliver delicious results, but each offers distinct advantages depending on your desired outcome and available time.
This article delves into the world of chicken, guiding you through the intricacies of each method. We will explore the ideal cuts of chicken for roasting, baking, and grilling along with essential tips for seasoning, temperature control, and achieving that sought-after crispy skin.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or still getting started with your culinary journey, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to create mouthwatering gluten-free dairy-free chicken dishes that will leave your family and friends wanting more.
Different Ways to Cook Chicken
Chicken is indeed a favourite food for many people around the world. Its popularity stems from various factors, including its mild flavour, tender texture, versatility in cooking methods, and nutritional value. It is also relatively affordable in most regions and is accessible to a large population.
Chicken is often perceived as a healthier protein option compared to red meat, making it a preferred choice for individuals conscious of their dietary intake. Its neutral flavour also allows for easy adaptation to various seasonings and sauces, further enhancing its popularity. That is why chicken dishes are widely enjoyed across different cultures and cuisines.
There are countless ways to cook chicken, each offering unique flavours and textures. Here are some popular methods:
- Grilling: Marinated or seasoned chicken is grilled over direct heat until cooked through, resulting in a smoky flavour and crispy exterior.
- Baking/Roasting: Seasoned chicken is baked in the oven until golden brown and tender and is often served with vegetables or potatoes for a complete meal. A rotisserie attachment on a grill can also be used to slowly roast whole chickens, resulting in juicy meat with crispy skin.
- Pan-Frying/Sautéing: Chicken pieces are cooked in a skillet with oil or butter until browned and cooked through, creating a crispy exterior.
- Poaching: Chicken is simmered in water or broth until cooked through, resulting in moist and tender meat, often used in salads or sandwiches.
- Steaming and Slow-Cooking: Seasoned chicken is placed in a steamer basket or a slow cooker and steamed or cooked in water until well done.
- Sous Vide: Seasoned chicken is vacuum-sealed and cooked in a water bath at a certain temperature until perfectly cooked, then seared briefly for added flavour.
- Smoking: Chicken is smoked over low heat for an extended period, infusing it with a rich, smoky flavour.
These methods can be combined with various seasonings, marinades, sauces, and accompaniments to create endless variations of delicious chicken dishes. In the following sections, we are going to demonstrate 15 different recipes for cooking gluten-free dairy-free chicken using a variety of the ways we just listed.
1. Roast Chicken with Thyme, Lemon, and Gravy
The first recipe we have today is roast chicken seasoned with aromatic thyme, zesty lemon, and gravy, a pretty classic and flavourful dish, and making it is so easy as well.
To prepare this dish, generously season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and a few fresh thyme leaves, and stuff it with lemon wedges and additional sprigs of thyme for added flavour. Set the chicken aside for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavours and get tender. The longer you leave it, the better the taste becomes.
Move your chicken to a pan and place it in a preheated oven. Bake it until crispy, and the meat is juicy and tender. Remove the chicken, pour the dripping in a small bowl, and set it aside for now.
Deglaze the pan by pouring in chicken broth or water to loosen the browned bits. In the same skillet, melt a piece of butter and add a tablespoon of flour to create a roux, cooking until golden brown. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until the mixture thickens.
Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and any desired herbs or spices, then add the chicken drippings. Simmer the gravy to meld flavours, and then serve it with your roast chicken.
This timeless recipe is a favourite for special occasions or Sunday dinners, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family.
2. Sheet Pan Greek Chicken
Sheet pan Greek chicken is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table in a convenient and fuss-free manner.
This recipe typically features tender chicken thighs or breasts marinated in a mixture of Greek-inspired herbs and spices like oregano, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, infusing the meat with a burst of savoury and tangy flavours. The marinated chicken is then arranged on a sheet pan along with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini, creating a visually stunning and nutrient-rich meal.
Roasted to perfection in the oven, the chicken becomes juicy and succulent, while the vegetables caramelise and develop a delicious char. This is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to prepare, which makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you crave a wholesome and satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup.
3. Cinnamon Chicken and Rice
The third recipe is another aromatic dish that combines tender chicken pieces with fragrant rice infused with warm cinnamon and savoury spices. Yes, this is cinnamon chicken and rice.
Typically prepared in a single pot for convenience, this dish begins with browning chicken thighs or breasts in a skillet to develop flavour before adding rice, diced onions, garlic, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and paprika. The rice absorbs the flavourful cooking liquid, resulting in a rich and aromatic base that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
As the dish simmers, the cinnamon infuses the rice with a subtle sweetness and warmth, creating a comforting and pretty satisfying meal that is perfect for cosy family dinners or entertaining guests.
4. Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Tuscan chicken is a luscious and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and velvety sauce inspired by the flavours of Tuscany, Italy.
Typically prepared by sautéing seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden brown, the dish is then simmered in a creamy sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs such as basil and oregano. To achieve its creamy texture, the sauce is often enriched with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative, ensuring a luxurious mouthfeel.
Creamy Tuscan chicken is bursting with savoury and aromatic flavours, making it a beloved comfort food favourite that is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
5. Gluten-Free Orange Chicken
Gluten-free orange chicken is a tantalising dish that combines tender pieces of chicken along with a tangy and sweet orange sauce, all without the use of gluten-containing ingredients.
To create this delectable dish, coat bite-sized chicken pieces in a gluten-free flour or cornstarch mixture and then pan-fry them until crispy. Then, toss the chicken in a vibrant orange sauce made with fresh orange juice, zest, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), honey, garlic, and ginger. This creates a great balance of sweet and savoury flavours.
Garnish your gluten-free orange chicken with sesame seeds and green onions for added texture and freshness, and serve it over rice or quinoa for a satisfying and delectable meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
6. Cajun Baked Chicken Wings
Our next dish comes directly to you from the Cajun cuisine of Louisiana, United States. Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavours, incorporating a mix of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences.
Cajun baked chicken wings are a flavorful and spicy twist on classic chicken wings, perfect for game day snacks or casual gatherings. To make this dish, coat chicken wings in a homemade Cajun seasoning blend made with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and other aromatic spices. Bake the wings in the oven until crispy and golden brown, resulting in tender meat with a crispy exterior.
The Cajun seasoning imparts a bold and zesty flavour to the wings, while the baking method ensures they are healthier than traditional fried wings. Cajun baked chicken wings are often served with a side dish of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and garnished with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of colour.
7. Honey-Dijon Baked Chicken
Another dish that has a twist of sweetness is the honey-Dijon baked chicken, a delicious and savoury dish that combines chicken breasts or thighs with a flavourful glaze made from a blend of honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs.
All you have to do to prepare this dish is to season the chicken, as always, with salt and pepper before coating it in the honey-Dijon mixture, making sure that each piece is perfectly glazed with the sweet and tangy mixture. Bake the chicken in the oven until it becomes golden brown and cooked through. The meat should be moist and flavourful with a caramelised exterior.
This honey-Dijon baked chicken dish is versatile and pairs well pretty much with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad, making it a perfect option for a simple yet satisfying meal any day of the week.
8. Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Chicken Bake
This is another tasty, wholesome and nutritious baked chicken dish that is also gluten-free and dairy-free, which makes it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Typically prepared with boneless chicken thighs, this dish is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. The chicken is then layered with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, providing a colourful and nutrient-rich base. For a great finish, the dish is drizzled with olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and tender as it bakes in the oven.
The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that is not only gluten-free and grain-free but also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any mealtime.
9. Jerk Chicken with Grilled Pineapple
Want another twist flavour? How about adding pineapple?
Our ninth dish is jerk chicken with grilled pineapple, a tantalising dish that combines the bold flavours of Jamaican jerk seasoning—yes, it is from Jamaica—with the sweet and tangy taste of grilled pineapple.
Traditionally, jerk chicken is marinated in a spicy and aromatic blend of ingredients such as Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, and green onions, resulting in a fiery and flavorful chicken. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, imparting a smoky, charred exterior and juicy interior. Grilled pineapple slices complement the heat of the jerk seasoning with their caramelised sweetness and juicy texture, creating a harmonious balance of flavours.
This dish is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine, offering a vibrant and memorable culinary experience that is perfect for summertime gatherings or any occasion where bold flavours and tropical flair are welcomed.
10. Easy Asian-Style Grilled Chicken
From Jamaica, we go all the way to Asia to make Asian-style grilled chicken. Despite the long flight, this is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the vibrant tastes of Asian cuisine with the convenience of grilling.
To make this dish, marinate chicken thighs, breasts, or even wings, whichever you prefer, in a savoury blend of Asian-inspired ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and honey. This marinade infuses the chicken with rich umami flavours and a hint of sweetness, creating a deliciously tender and juicy result.
After marinating for at least 30 minutes (or ideally overnight for maximum flavour), grill the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, with a delicious caramelised exterior. Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch.
Like many others we demonstrated today, this Asian-style grilled chicken is versatile and pairs perfectly well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp Asian-inspired salad. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or served at a summer barbecue, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavours and simplicity.
11. Garlic Lime Grilled Chicken
This garlic lime grilled chicken is a delightful dish that combines zesty citrus flavours with savoury garlic to create a mouthwatering marinade for grilled chicken. Preparing it is also quite simple.
First, marinate chicken breasts or thighs in a mixture of fresh minced garlic, freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, honey or brown sugar, and a touch of salt and pepper. The garlic infuses the chicken with its aromatic essence, while the lime juice adds brightness and tanginess to the marinade.
After marinating for at least 30 minutes (or longer for more intense flavour), the chicken should be grilled until cooked through, developing a flavorful charred exterior and juicy interior. The result is a tender and succulent chicken dish with a perfect balance of savoury, citrusy, and garlicky flavours.
Garlic lime Grilled chicken is perfect for a summer barbecue, served with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a delicious and satisfying meal.
12. Morocco-Inspired Grilled Chicken Kebabs
This dish is a delectable fusion of North African spices and grilled goodness, the Moroccan-inspired grilled chicken kebabs. Do you not know what kebab is? This is a Middle Eastern dish consisting of pieces of meat, chicken, or vegetables skewered and grilled or roasted.
To prepare these tasty kebabs, boneless chicken thighs are cut into small cubes and then marinated in a mixture of traditional Moroccan spices such as cumin, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, and turmeric, along with minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and touch of honey for sweetness. Set them aside for at least one hour.
Once marinated, the chicken is threaded onto skewers along with colourful bell peppers, onions, and perhaps even pineapple or zucchini for added texture and flavour. Grill the kebabs to perfection over an open flame or on a grill pan until they develop a deliciously charred exterior and a tender and juicy interior. Garnish your kebabs with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley and serve them with a side of couscous or grilled flatbread, a satisfying and exotic meal.
13. Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Number 13 is the Instant Pot shredded chicken. This is a versatile and convenient dish that involves cooking chicken breasts or thighs in an Instant Pot. This is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker used for slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, and more. It is designed to cook food pretty quickly and conveniently, making it a popular kitchen appliance for busy households.
Hopefully, you are rich and busy and have an Instant Pot to make this dish!
So, to prepare this delectable dish, place the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot along with a liquid such as chicken broth or water, as well as seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any additional herbs or spices desired. Then, seal the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook for a short amount of time, typically around 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, release the pressure, remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. The resulting shredded chicken can be used in a variety of recipes such as tacos, sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles, making it a convenient and versatile protein option for meal prep or quick and easy weeknight dinners.
14. Easy Instant Pot Coconut Chicken Curry
Easy Instant Pot coconut chicken curry is a delicious and flavourful dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk in a convenient and quick preparation method using the Instant Pot.
To make this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are combined with onions, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chilli powder in the Instant Pot. The ingredients are sautéed until fragrant before adding coconut milk and diced tomatoes. The Instant Pot is then set to pressure cook for a short amount of time, allowing the flavours to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
Once cooked, the dish is finished with a splash of lime juice and garnished with fresh cilantro. The result is a rich and creamy coconut chicken curry that is bursting with flavour and perfect for serving over rice or with naan bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
15. Moroccan Chicken Tagine
We are back in Morocco to make their most famous dish, Moroccan chicken tagine. It is usually cooked in a special clay pot called a “tagine,” which has a conical lid that helps to trap steam and infuse the dish with intense flavours. The dish typically features tender chicken pieces cooked with a combination of spices, fruits, and vegetables, resulting in a rich and quite complex flavour profile.
To make Moroccan chicken tagine, chicken pieces, often thighs or drumsticks, are first marinated in a mixture of Moroccan spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, and saffron, along with garlic, onions, and olive oil. The marinated chicken is then browned in a skillet to develop flavour before being transferred to the tagine.
In the tagine, the chicken is layered with multiple ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, olives, preserved lemons, and dried fruits like apricots or prunes. The dish is then simmered slowly over low heat, allowing the flavours to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
Moroccan chicken tagine is often served with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that showcases the vibrant and exotic flavours of Moroccan cuisine, making it a favourite for special occasions or gatherings with family and friends.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the smoky flavours of grilled chicken or the convenience of Instant Pot recipes, there is no denying the versatility and deliciousness of chicken in all its forms. From succulent grilled chicken skewers to tender Instant Pot shredded chicken, these recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
If you are in the mood for a backyard barbecue or a cosy meal at home, Asian-inspired dishes or classic Italian flavours, embrace the versatility of chicken and enjoy the delicious possibilities it brings to the table.
So, go ahead and explore these easy and satisfying recipes that are perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to try something new.