Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy, buttery richness and bright citrus flavor. The fresh dill adds a unique, herbaceous touch that elevates the entire dish. It comes together quickly in one pan, making cleanup easy. The sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables, making it a flexible option for any meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Directions
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the chopped dill and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let it simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors combine.
Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add extra richness. You can also swap dill for parsley or basil if you prefer a different herb profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh dill provides the best flavor. If using dried, reduce the amount to about one-third.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently before serving, though it is best fresh.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using a dairy-free cream alternative and plant-based butter, though the flavor and texture may vary.
Why did my sauce curdle?
High heat or adding lemon juice too quickly can cause curdling. Keep the heat low and stir gently.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms work very well in this recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Let it simmer longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.
Conclusion
Creamy Lemon Butter Dill Chicken is a deliciously comforting dish with a bright, fresh twist. The combination of creamy sauce, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill creates a meal that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it is a recipe that is sure to impress and satisfy.
PrintCreamy Lemon Butter Dill Chicken
A rich and comforting chicken dish featuring tender breasts in a creamy lemon butter sauce infused with fresh dill. Perfectly balanced with bright citrus and savory flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the chopped dill and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Serve warm with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds extra richness.
- Reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream if sauce thickens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
