Lemon & Dill Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon & Dill Chicken recipe is a wonderful choice if you love meals that are simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. The lemon adds a zesty brightness, while the dill provides a gentle, herby finish that complements the chicken beautifully. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is naturally gluten-free and low-carb. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you want something wholesome and delicious with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Lemon slices (for garnish)

  • Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

  6. Stir in the chopped dill and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

  7. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.

  8. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh dill before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes, bringing the total time to around 30 minutes.

Variations

  • Creamy Version: Add a splash of coconut milk or a Whole30-compliant cream alternative to make a creamy lemon dill sauce.

  • Grilled Option: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor, and serve with the lemon dill sauce drizzled on top.

  • Add Veggies: Toss in some asparagus, spinach, or zucchini to cook along with the chicken for a one-pan meal.

  • Herb Swap: Substitute or combine dill with parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use about one-third the amount of dried dill if substituting for fresh.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option for dairy-free diets.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinating the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and dill for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor even more.

What sides pair well with Lemon & Dill Chicken?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, cauliflower rice, or a simple green salad make excellent sides.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then pour the lemon dill sauce over the top before serving.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this chicken stores and reheats well, making it a great option for prepping meals ahead of time.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly, or add a teaspoon of arrowroot powder mixed with water if a thicker sauce is desired.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing.

Can I freeze Lemon & Dill Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken (without lemon slices) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Conclusion

Lemon & Dill Chicken is a light, flavorful meal that’s easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for company. With simple, fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s a healthy and satisfying dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether paired with your favorite sides or enjoyed on its own, this dish brings a refreshing twist to classic chicken dinners.

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Lemon & Dill Chicken

Lemon & Dill Chicken

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Lemon & Dill Chicken is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken, bright lemon, and aromatic dill. Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, this easy, flavorful recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10min
  • Cook Time: 20min
  • Total Time: 30min
  • Yield: 4servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Fried, Sautéed
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Lemon slices (for garnish)

Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

  3. Remove the chicken and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, scraping up browned bits from the pan.

  6. Stir in chopped dill and bring sauce to a gentle simmer.

  7. Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to coat.

  8. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh dill before serving.

Notes

  • Creamy Version: Add a splash of coconut milk or Whole30-compliant cream for a creamy sauce.

  • Grilled Option: Grill chicken and drizzle with lemon dill sauce after cooking.

  • Add Veggies: Toss in asparagus, spinach, or zucchini for a one-pan meal.

  • Herb Swap: Use parsley or basil in place of or along with dill for a different flavor twist.

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