Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts are a delightful and healthy meal option that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without much fuss. This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the aromatic taste of dill, creating a mouthwatering experience. Known for its Greek and Mediterranean origins, this dish uses simple yet powerful ingredients to transform ordinary chicken breasts into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress.
Meta Description: Discover the deliciousness of Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts with our easy recipe. Perfect for a healthy meal, this dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a vibrant marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken for added moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender chicken.
- Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Moist Chicken
- Soak in lemon: Lemon juice tenderizes the chicken, enhancing its flavor while keeping it moist. This is why people often soak chicken in lemon.
- Avoid overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out.
- Baste with juices: Spoon the pan juices over the chicken during baking to keep it moist and flavorful.
Variations
- Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust baking time as needed.
- Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts and Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to the baking dish for a complete meal. The potatoes will absorb the delicious flavors of the lemon and dill.
- Creamy Lemon Dill Chicken: Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to the marinade for a creamy twist.
- Lemon Dill Sauce for Chicken: Serve with a lemon dill sauce made of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped dill for extra flavor.
Herb and Spice Pairings
- Best Herbs for Chicken: Dill pairs well with basil, parsley, and thyme, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
- Spices to Complement Dill: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are excellent spices to use with dill for poultry dishes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts are a perfect addition to your meal rotation, offering a healthy and delicious option that is easy to prepare. The combination of lemon and dill creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you serve it with potatoes, salad, or your favorite side dish, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.
Feel free to share your cooking experiences and any variations you try in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes from easycrispyrecipes.com. Happy cooking.