I remember the first time I tasted baked chicken with lemon dill sauce.
It was a cozy family dinner, and the fresh, zesty aroma filled the kitchen. My mom had this way of making simple dishes feel like a special occasion, and this one was no exception.
There’s something magical about the way lemon and dill come together.
They create a bright, tangy flavor that dances on your taste buds, turning an ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Every bite brings back memories of laughter and warmth around the dinner table.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious baked chicken with lemon dill sauce.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
First up we need a baking dish. This is where the magic happens with our chicken.
A sharp knife will do wonders for slicing the lemon and chiffonade cut of the fresh dill.
Don’t forget a cutting board. It’s my go-to for maintaining a clean kitchen surface.
Grab a small saucepan. That’s my secret for simmering the lemon dill sauce to perfection.
A whisk is key for mixing the sauce till it’s just right.
And an instant-read thermometer ensures that chicken is cooked safely.
Lastly, some measuring spoons are helpful for precision—essential for a dish like this.
Directions
Here’s how we whip up this scrumptious baked chicken with a zesty lemon dill sauce. Let’s get started!
Prep the Chicken
I preheat my oven to 375°F. I place the boneless chicken on a cutting board. Drizzle olive oil over it and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This makes the flavors pop.
Prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce
I grab my small saucepan. I combine chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and some zest. I set the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
I put my seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Into the oven it goes for about 25-30 minutes. I like using an instant-read thermometer to make sure it hits 165°F. Safe and cooked perfectly.
Make the Sauce
While the chicken’s baking, I finish the sauce. I melt some unsalted butter into the lemon mix. Then I stir in freshly chopped dill. Whisk it all until it’s smooth and fragrant. The kitchen smells divine.
Assemble
After the chicken’s baked to perfection, I take it out and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the juices inside.
I place the chicken pieces on a serving platter. They look golden and smell heavenly.
I drizzle that lemon dill sauce all over them. I make sure each piece gets coated beautifully.
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill on top adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby aroma.
Time to dig in! My family’s gathered around, ready for a taste. It’s the best part, sharing these moments together.
Serve
I carefully transfer the baked chicken to a pretty platter.
The lemon dill sauce adds a sparkle— I spoon it generously over each piece.
A sprinkle of fresh dill on top makes the dish pop.
I arrange some lemon slices around, adding a nice touch.
The smell is amazing, making it impossible not to sneak a bite.
Time to gather everyone.
We happily dig in, enjoying every juicy, tangy bite together.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Sometimes, life gets busy. I love to prepare this dish ahead of time.
First, marinate the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Put it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
For the sauce, blend the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Store it in a jar.
Conclusion
Baked chicken with lemon dill sauce isn’t just a meal—it’s a bridge to cherished memories and family togetherness.
Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of those joyful family dinners.
It’s simple yet special, and the combination of tangy lemon and fresh dill never fails to impress.
Whether you’re making it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfied appetites.
So gather your loved ones, set the table, and enjoy the delightful flavors and the moments that make life truly delicious.
