Prepare to discover your new favorite weeknight meal: **Lemon Dill Chicken**. This exquisite dish combines succulent, tender chicken with a vibrant, creamy sauce infused with the bright zest of lemon and the aromatic freshness of dill. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet delight right on your stovetop. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors that will make this recipe a staple in your kitchen. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken, bathed in a silky sauce, ready to be savored.
For another incredibly tender and flavorful chicken option, you might also enjoy our oregano chicken recipe, packed with amazing Mediterranean flavors.
The magic of this dish truly lies in its sauce. It’s a masterpiece of balance, with the zesty kick of fresh lemon and the distinct, savory notes of dill elevating every aspect. This isn’t just any sauce; it’s the kind of rich, creamy concoction you’ll want to generously spoon over your plump, juicy chicken, and then eagerly drizzle over accompanying rice, pasta, or even a side of roasted vegetables. Its luscious texture and vibrant flavor profile make it utterly irresistible, transforming a simple chicken dish into a memorable culinary event.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Dill Chicken
This Lemon Dill Chicken isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary hero for busy home cooks and flavor enthusiasts alike. Here’s why it’s destined to become a beloved favorite:
- Effortlessly Easy & Quick: Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hours in the kitchen! This fantastic dish is designed for simplicity, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal fuss. From start to finish, you can have this flavorful chicken on the table in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.
- A Dill Lover’s Dream: If your family adores the unique, fresh, and slightly tangy flavor of dill, this recipe will be an instant hit. The herb is prominently featured, infusing the chicken and its creamy sauce with an unforgettable aroma and taste that truly celebrates dill’s distinctive character. It’s a culinary experience tailored for those who appreciate this wonderful herb.
- Incredibly Versatile: While dill is the star, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to your preferences. Don’t have dill on hand, or prefer another herb? No problem! Feel free to swap out the dill for your favorite fresh herb. Rosemary, thyme, parsley, or even a touch of tarragon can each lend their own delightful twist, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to suit any palate or pantry.
- Flexible with Chicken Cuts: This recipe is wonderfully accommodating, working beautifully with various cuts of chicken. Whether you prefer the lean tenderness of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lighter meal or the rich, juicy flavor of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the results will be equally delicious. You can even experiment with bone-in cuts, simply adjusting the cooking time to ensure thorough doneness.
- Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: This quick, tender, and incredibly juicy chicken dish is a winner for all ages, even the pickiest eaters. The mild yet flavorful lemon-dill sauce is generally well-received, making it a reliable choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. You’ll find everyone reaching for seconds!
In essence, Lemon Dill Chicken offers the perfect trifecta: it’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough to fit any occasion or preference. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of culinary satisfaction waiting to happen.
📝 Essential Ingredients for Lemon Dill Chicken
Crafting this exquisite Lemon Dill Chicken requires a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the dish’s signature creamy texture and bright, herbaceous taste. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to gather:
You’ll notice that these ingredients are readily available, making this a convenient and accessible recipe for any home cook. The magic truly happens when these fresh components are combined in the pan, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Dill Chicken
This overview provides the essential steps for preparing your delicious Lemon Dill Chicken. For precise measurements and detailed timings, please refer to the full recipe card below. Follow these simple steps to create a succulent and flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for building flavor from the start.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan. Brown the chicken for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. This searing step locks in juices and creates a rich depth of flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Roux Base: Allow the hot pan to cool down for just a minute off the heat to prevent the butter from burning. Return the skillet to medium heat, add the unsalted butter, and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Immediately add the all-purpose flour to the pan, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until it forms a light golden-brown roux. This roux will be the thickening agent for your creamy sauce.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Gradually whisk in 1¼ cups of chicken stock into the roux. Continue whisking steadily to prevent lumps, ensuring the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Once you have a velvety consistency, stir in the fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice will add a bright, zesty tang that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
- Simmer and Finish: Gently return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to medium and allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer. Just before serving, stir in the fresh dill. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your preference.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the Lemon Dill Chicken to serving plates, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the flavorful, creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of fresh dill for an appealing presentation. Enjoy this tender, juicy chicken hot, perhaps with your favorite side dishes.
This process ensures maximum flavor development and a perfectly cooked dish every time. Enjoy the journey from simple ingredients to a truly remarkable meal!
💡Tips for Perfect Lemon Dill Chicken
Achieving the best possible Lemon Dill Chicken involves a few simple tricks and personal touches. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish is consistently delicious and perfectly seasoned:
- Embrace the Dill: I am a huge enthusiast of dill, often doubling or even tripling the amount called for in the recipe. If you share my passion for this aromatic herb, don’t hesitate to add more! Fresh dill provides an incredible burst of flavor that truly defines this dish. For the most intense taste, always opt for fresh dill whenever possible.
- Lemon Juice to Your Liking: The amount of lemon juice is a matter of personal preference. Some prefer a subtle citrus note, while others enjoy a bolder, tangier flavor. Always taste the sauce after adding the initial amount of lemon juice and adjust accordingly. You might find you need a little more to achieve your ideal balance of brightness and acidity.
- Fresh Squeezed for Best Flavor: While bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, fresh-squeezed lemon juice makes a significant difference in flavor. Typically, one medium-sized lemon will yield approximately 2 tablespoons of juice, which is often enough for this recipe. Fresh lemon juice brings a vibrant, natural zing that processed versions simply can’t match.
- Even Browning is Key: Ensure your skillet is hot enough and don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Browning the chicken properly creates a delicious crust and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish. Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Smooth Sauce Secret: When whisking in the chicken stock, add it gradually and whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a perfectly smooth, creamy sauce. A wire whisk is your best friend here. If the sauce seems too thick, a splash more chicken stock can thin it out; if it’s too thin, a quick cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water) can thicken it.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken thighs are more forgiving, but breasts can dry out quickly. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C) to ensure tender, juicy results every time.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll master the art of making Lemon Dill Chicken that is flavorful, tender, and absolutely delightful.
💰 Money and Time Saving Tips for Lemon Dill Chicken
This Lemon Dill Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly practical for budget-conscious and busy individuals. Here’s how you can save both money and time without compromising on flavor:
- Smart Chicken Shopping: This recipe is incredibly versatile and works wonderfully with any chicken cut you find on sale. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for quick cooking, but even bone-in chicken pieces can be used. If you opt for bone-in cuts, remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, typically extending it to ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender. Buying chicken in bulk when it’s discounted and freezing individual portions can also lead to significant savings.
- Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh herbs always offer the most vibrant flavor, it’s completely acceptable to use dried dill if fresh is unavailable or too expensive. The general rule for conversion is that 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill is equivalent to 1 teaspoon of dried dill. Keep a well-stocked pantry with dried herbs for convenience and cost-effectiveness, and use them confidently in this recipe.
- Homemade Stock for Extra Savings: If you frequently cook with chicken, consider making your own chicken stock from leftover bones and vegetable scraps. It’s much cheaper than store-bought, often more flavorful, and reduces food waste.
- Prep Ahead: To minimize day-of cooking time, chop your fresh dill, mince your garlic, and squeeze your lemons for juice a day or two in advance. Store these prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This small effort can shave valuable minutes off your dinner preparation.
- Batch Cooking for Future Meals: This recipe scales well. Consider doubling the recipe to have leftovers for lunch the next day or to freeze portions for an even quicker meal on another busy evening. Cooked chicken in sauce freezes beautifully in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
Incorporating these simple tips will help you enjoy this delightful Lemon Dill Chicken more often, without breaking the bank or feeling overwhelmed by cooking.
🧺 Storage for Leftover Lemon Dill Chicken
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and safety of your delicious Lemon Dill Chicken. Leftovers can be a lifesaver on busy days, so here’s how to handle them:
Refrigerate: Any leftover Lemon Dill Chicken should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly, ideally within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, it will remain fresh and safe to eat for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any air exposure, which can dry out the chicken and compromise the sauce’s flavor.
Freezing: For longer storage, Lemon Dill Chicken freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can reheat portions in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even temperature. Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the chicken.
⌛ Make Ahead for Convenience
While Lemon Dill Chicken is best enjoyed fresh from the pan to maximize its tender texture and vibrant flavors, some preparatory steps can certainly be done ahead of time to streamline your cooking process:
- Herb & Citrus Prep: The most significant time-saver for this recipe involves preparing your fresh ingredients in advance. This includes chopping the fresh dill and squeezing the lemons for their juice. Store the chopped dill in a small airtight container or a damp paper towel in a sealed bag in the refrigerator. The lemon juice can be stored in a covered container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Having these ready means you can quickly move through the cooking steps on the day you plan to serve.
- Mise en Place: Beyond the dill and lemon, you can also mince your garlic ahead of time. Measure out your flour and chicken stock. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready (your “mise en place”) before you even turn on the stove will make the cooking experience much more relaxed and efficient.
- Chicken Preparation: If you’re using chicken breasts and want them thinner, you can butterfly or pound them to an even thickness ahead of time. You can also pat them dry and season them with salt and pepper, then store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to sear.
By tackling these minor preparations beforehand, you can significantly reduce your active cooking time and make this delicious Lemon Dill Chicken an even more attractive option for busy weeknights.
🍽️ What to Serve With Lemon Dill Chicken
The bright and creamy flavors of Lemon Dill Chicken make it incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. Here are some fantastic pairings to complete your meal, each chosen to complement the chicken’s rich sauce and tender texture:
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy and flavorful accompaniment, serve your lemon dill chicken with a medley of roasted vegetables. Think asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or even root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. The slight caramelization from roasting adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Fluffy Rice: A classic pairing, a bed of fluffy Basmati rice or plain white rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the luscious lemon dill sauce. Its mild flavor provides a comforting foundation that allows the chicken to truly shine. Quinoa or couscous are also excellent grain alternatives.
- Biscuits or Crusty Bread: Don’t let any of that incredible sauce go to waste! Serve this dish with warm buttermilk biscuits or a rustic crusty bread. They are perfect for sopping up the delicious, creamy gravy, ensuring you enjoy every last bit of flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese Pasta: For a heartier meal, our Ricotta Cheese Pasta offers a delightful texture and rich flavor profile that beautifully complements the lemon dill chicken. It’s a harmonious pairing that elevates the entire dining experience, especially fitting for any Mediterranean-inspired spread.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety mashed potatoes are another fantastic option for absorbing the savory sauce, creating a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
- Fresh Green Salad: To lighten the meal and add a refreshing contrast, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can be a wonderful addition, cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Healthy Carrot Cake: To conclude such a citrusy and delightful meal on a sweet note, consider a guilt-free treat like this Healthy Carrot Cake Recipe. Its wholesome sweetness provides a perfect balance to the savory main course.
With these serving suggestions, you can easily create a balanced and memorable meal around your Lemon Dill Chicken, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.
👩🍳 Delicious Variations to Try
One of the best aspects of this Lemon Dill Chicken recipe is its flexibility. While the classic combination is superb, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some exciting variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Herb Swaps: The most straightforward variation is to swap out the dill for another fresh herb. Cilantro offers a bright, almost citrusy note that pairs well with lemon. Sage lends an earthy, aromatic warmth, perfect for a cozier meal. Rosemary provides a piney, robust flavor that can stand up to the richness of the sauce. Feel free to experiment with tarragon, chives, or a blend of your favorite herbs to create a unique twist.
- Chicken Cut Alternatives: This recipe is highly adaptable to various chicken cuts. Boneless chicken breasts are excellent for a leaner option, cooking quickly and absorbing flavors beautifully. For a richer, more succulent result, consider using skin-on chicken thighs, searing them skin-side down first to crisp up the skin before proceeding with the recipe. Bone-in chicken pieces (like drumsticks or bone-in thighs) also work, though you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Add a Touch of Creaminess: For an even richer, more luxurious sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the very end, just before adding the dill. This will enhance the silkiness and depth of the sauce, making it even more decadent.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle kick that complements the lemon and dill beautifully.
- Mushroom or Spinach Boost: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan before adding the butter and flour, or wilt in a handful of fresh spinach at the very end when you add the dill. These vegetables add extra flavor, nutrition, and texture to the dish.
- Cheese Infusion: For a cheesy twist, stir in a tablespoon or two of grated Parmesan cheese or a mild white cheese like Feta (for a Mediterranean flair) into the sauce just before serving.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this Lemon Dill Chicken truly your own. Each variation offers a new dimension of flavor, keeping your meal rotations exciting and delicious.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Beyond simply adding a bright, zesty, and refreshing flavor to the chicken recipe, lemon juice also plays a crucial role in tenderizing the chicken. The acidity in the lemon helps to break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more succulent and juicy texture. It also brightens up the overall flavor profile of the dish, cutting through any richness and adding a delightful tang.
Dill is a distinctive and highly aromatic herb known for its fresh, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor profile. It often carries subtle notes of anise or caraway, along with a grassy freshness. It’s a wonderful herb that pairs exceptionally well in many dishes, particularly those featuring fish, potatoes, and chicken, and is a cherished staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking.
If dill isn’t to your liking or isn’t available, you have several excellent options for substitution. Cilantro offers a fresh, bright flavor. Sage provides an earthy, robust note. Rosemary delivers a fragrant, piney aroma. You could also try parsley for a milder, garden-fresh taste, or even tarragon for a hint of anise. The key is to pick one herb that you enjoy and stick with it throughout the recipe to maintain a consistent flavor profile.
Absolutely! For an even more luxurious and decadent sauce, you can substitute some or all of the chicken stock with heavy cream or half-and-half. If using heavy cream, add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from curdling, and simmer gently until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. This will yield a richer, silkier sauce that is incredibly indulgent.
As written, this recipe uses all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce, which contains gluten. However, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or by using cornstarch as a thickener. If using cornstarch, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often recommended for their juiciness and flavor, as they are less prone to drying out. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work wonderfully for a leaner option, just be mindful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked and to render the skin crispy.
📣 Related Chicken Recipes to Explore
- Another one of my favorite chicken recipes for a truly special meal is this creamy stuffed chicken breasts, featuring a rich filling that makes it incredibly satisfying.
- Sometimes, you just need a hands-off meal that delivers on flavor without the fuss. This slow cooker chicken thighs recipe is exactly that – a simple, hearty dish that cooks itself.
- If you’re looking for a delicious low-carb chicken option, try this Keto Chicken Parmesan recipe. You won’t believe how incredibly good and satisfying this guilt-free casserole is!
- Chicken shawarma is one of the most beloved and popular dishes across the Middle East. Chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, and warm spices, then cooked to perfection, the intoxicating aroma alone is out of this world.
- For a show-stopping meal that’s easier than it looks, here’s the best Cornish hen recipe. The whole family will adore this tender, flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion but simple enough for a hearty weeknight dinner.
More Saucy Chicken Recipes for Your Table
- This Tamarind Chicken offers a unique flavor profile that is tangy, savory, and perfectly balanced. Tender chicken bites coated in a sweet and sour tamarind sauce will have everyone licking their plates clean.
- Our Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken is an effortlessly easy and incredibly flavorful chicken recipe, boasting a luscious texture and bright, citrusy notes. With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s a brilliant solution for busy weeknight dinners.
- Indulge in delicious and satisfying tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with this easy Marry Me Chicken recipe. It’s so good, it will leave you craving more, making it a perfect dish for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a romantic dinner.
- These Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are incredibly juicy and bursting with flavor, making for a fantastic chicken dinner. Expect sweet, smoky, and perfectly sticky drumsticks with crisp skin and tender, fall-off-the-bone meat – a great option for family dinner or adding to your party spread.
I genuinely hope you’ll adore this Lemon Dill Chicken recipe as much as I do. If you prepare this delightful dish, please snap a pic and hashtag it #amiraspantry – I absolutely love seeing your culinary creations on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!
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Lemon Dill Chicken
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Equipment
- 1 large non-stick skillet (for even browning and sauce preparation)
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, about 4-5 pieces)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 Tablespoon butter unsalted (for the sauce base)
- 3 garlic cloves minced (adds aromatic depth)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce; use gluten-free blend for GF option)
- 1½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste for brightness)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (more if you love dill, or 2 tsp dried dill)
Instructions
- Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and a nice crust forms.
- Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Remove the skillet from the heat for a minute to cool slightly, then return to medium heat.
- Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly browned and a roux forms.
- Gradually whisk in 1¼ cups of chicken stock, stirring continuously to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice, mixing it thoroughly into the sauce.
- Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer on medium heat for 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Stir in the chopped fresh dill. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, or lemon juice) as desired.
- Serve your delicious Lemon Dill Chicken immediately, garnished with a fresh lemon slice and extra dill if desired.
Notes
- I am a huge fan of dill, so I almost always double or triple the amount in this recipe. If you share my enthusiasm for dill, feel free to add more to your taste.
- The tartness of lemon varies, so you might need more or less lemon juice than specified. Always taste the sauce and adjust the lemon juice to your personal preference for brightness.
- As a general guide, you can typically get about 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice from one average-sized lemon. Using fresh-squeezed juice will always yield the best flavor.
- Please review our nutrition disclaimer policy for information regarding dietary values.
Nutrition
Originally published Mar 29, 2016, this recipe has been thoroughly updated and improved on July 9, 2022, to bring you the best possible Lemon Dill Chicken experience.