Best Chicken Recipes Without Oven

Who says you need an oven to make delicious chicken dishes? Whether you’re dealing with a broken oven, limited kitchen tools, or just want a quick meal, these no-oven chicken recipes are here to save the day. From stovetop classics to slow cooker wonders, we’ve got you covered with easy, flavorful, and fuss-free options.

Best Chicken Recipes Without Oven

1. Stovetop Chicken Fajitas

 

These sizzling chicken fajitas are a crowd-pleaser and cook up in just 20 minutes on the stovetop. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Flour tortillas for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
  3. Add vegetables and seasoning, cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

2. Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Let your slow cooker do all the work with this sticky, sweet, and savory chicken dish that falls off the bone.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated

Instructions:

  1. Combine all sauce ingredients in slow cooker.
  2. Add chicken and turn to coat.
  3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
  4. Serve over rice with sauce spooned on top.

3. One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken

This elegant yet easy dish comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup – perfect for date night or when you want something special.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp thyme

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until golden.
  3. Remove chicken, add garlic, then broth and lemon juice.
  4. Return chicken to pan, simmer 2-3 minutes to thicken sauce.

4. Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders

Yes, we’re counting the air fryer as “no oven”! These come out perfectly crispy without deep frying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions:

  1. Set up breading station: flour, eggs, then breadcrumbs mixed with paprika.
  2. Coat tenders in each, shaking off excess.
  3. Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, flip, then 4-5 more minutes.
  4. Serve with dipping sauces.

5. Instant Pot Chicken Curry

This pressure cooker curry delivers deep flavors in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onions in Instant Pot until soft.
  2. Add curry powder, toast 30 seconds.
  3. Add remaining ingredients, seal, and cook 10 minutes on high pressure.
  4. Natural release 5 minutes, then quick release.

FAQ Section

Can I make crispy chicken without an oven?

Absolutely! Use an air fryer for best results, or try pan-frying with a crispy breadcrumb coating.

What’s the fastest no-oven chicken recipe?

Stovetop chicken fajitas or stir-fries cook in under 20 minutes from start to finish.

How do I keep chicken moist without oven baking?

Slow cooking, braising, or using thighs instead of breasts helps maintain moisture. Don’t overcook!

Can I make chicken parmesan without an oven?

Yes! Bread and pan-fry the chicken, then top with warmed marinara and melted cheese under a broiler or in a covered pan.