The bright scent of lemon and fresh dill danced through my kitchen as I prepared a dish that screams springtime: Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus. In just 30 minutes, this recipe brings together juicy chicken, vibrant asparagus, and a buttery garlic sauce that will have your taste buds singing. It’s a welcome hug of comfort food that feels light but satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy evenings when you still want to treat yourself to something special without all the fuss. This dish is not only a delightful crowd-pleaser but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this flavorful journey together!
Why is this chicken recipe a must-try?
Simplicity in preparation: With just a few ingredients and a total cook time of only 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress.
Bursting with Flavor: The zesty lemon and aromatic dill elevate ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish your family will rave about.
Healthy Touch: Packed with protein and veggies, this meal offers a nutritious alternative to takeout that won't weigh you down.
Versatile Side Options: Pair it with Cheese Garlic Crack or a light salad for a complete feast!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for easy lunches throughout the week, satisfying all your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough for entertaining guests. This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken will definitely be the star of the table!
Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor explosion with these key ingredients!
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast – Use boneless, skinless chicken for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil – This adds rich flavor while keeping the chicken moist.
- Salt to taste – Enhances all the wonderful flavors in this dish.
- Pepper to taste – A dash of pepper brings a subtle heat to balance the dish.
For the Veggies
- 1 bunch asparagus – Fresh asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
For the Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoon butter – The base of the sauce, making it rich and creamy.
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped – Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a savory aroma.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a hint of spice that complements the dish beautifully.
For the Zesty Flavor
- ½ cup chicken broth – This builds a flavorful sauce that keeps everything moist.
- Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens the flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Zest of 1 lemon – Adds an aromatic touch that makes the dish sing!
- 2 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – The star herb that binds all the flavors together in this Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic chicken.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic
Step 1: Sauté the Asparagus
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the asparagus to the pan and sauté for about 3–5 minutes until they are crisp-tender and vibrant green. Transfer the cooked asparagus to a plate and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. As the butter melts and begins to bubble, season the 1 lb chicken breast with salt and pepper, then carefully place it in the pan. Cook the chicken for approximately 3–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spice
Once the chicken is perfectly seared, stir in 3 cloves of chopped garlic and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. This step infuses the chicken with a warm, savory aroma that perfectly complements the lemon and dill butter garlic flavors.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a spatula to enhance the sauce's flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic chicken is flavorful and moist.
Step 5: Introduce Zesty Flavors
Next, stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon, along with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill. Allow the flavors to blend for a minute, and then return the asparagus to the pan. Toss everything gently to ensure each ingredient is coated in the delicious sauce, adding both visual appeal and depth to your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic dish.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
After combining all the elements, give the dish a final taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed to elevate the flavors. Serve the Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic chicken immediately while it's hot, accompanied by your choice of sides for a delightful, homemade dining experience.
Expert Tips for Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic
Perfect Chicken: Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking; this promotes even cooking and prevents dryness.
Don’t Burn the Garlic: Stir the garlic in just until fragrant; burning it can lead to a bitter taste in your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic sauce.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh dill instead of dried for the brightest flavor; it truly elevates the dish and complements the lemon zest beautifully.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency; this keeps everything moist and flavorsome.
Versatile Sides: Pair it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce, turning this quick meal into a satisfying feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus make-ahead options are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice (to enhance tenderness) and season it with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum flavor. Additionally, you can prep the asparagus by washing and trimming it up to 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the chicken as directed and add the prepped asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
-
Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley or thyme alongside the dill for an aromatic blend.
Think of herbs as the soul of your cooking. They bring a unique character to the dish, making it even more special. -
Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice and zest for lemon to elevate the flavor profile.
The zesty lime brings a refreshing tang that can transform this dish into a tropical delight! -
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Adding these veggies not only creates visual appeal but also packs in extra nutrition and sweetness. -
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a fiery touch.
For those who crave heat, this adjustment will turn up the flavor volume without overpowering the dish! -
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a luxurious, silky sauce.
Rich and creamy, this version will coat your chicken beautifully, making it irresistible! -
Low-Carb Version: Substitute asparagus with zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
Zucchini noodles add a refreshing crunch and are a fantastic way to reduce carbs without sacrificing taste. -
Fish Alternative: Swap the chicken for salmon fillets for a lighter option full of omega-3s.
The salmon pairs beautifully with the lemon and dill, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy. -
Herbed Quinoa: Serve with a side of lemon-dill quinoa to complement the dish.
This side dish not only rounds out the meal but also amplifies the flavors of your main dish. For a delicious twist, try pairing it with something like One Pot Lemon to enhance your dinner experience!
What to Serve with Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken
Imagine a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering—each side you choose elevates the vibrant flavors of this dish!
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture pairs wonderfully with the buttery sauce, providing a satisfying contrast to the chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini bring sweetness and freshness, enhancing the dish's vibrant flavors.
- Couscous Salad: Light, fluffy couscous dotted with herbs and diced vegetables offers a refreshing balance that complements the tangy lemon.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, enhancing the overall experience.
- Simple Green Salad: A mix of crisp greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, brightening every bite of the chicken.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio echoes the lemony notes, making it an ideal sip alongside dinner.
- Fruit Compote Dessert: Finish with a light berry compote or lemon sorbet for a sweet, tart finale, perfectly balancing the meal.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken succulent and the garlic flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your flavors remain vibrant.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, or microwave in intervals of 30 seconds until heated through.
Asparagus Storage: If you have leftover asparagus, store it separately. Keep in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 2 days to maintain its crunch and color.
Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting asparagus?
Choose asparagus stalks that are firm and vibrant green with closed buds at the tops. Avoid any that are wilting or have dark spots all over. Thicker stalks tend to have a richer flavor, but younger, thinner ones can also be tender and delightful.
How can I store leftover Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken?
Store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes or use a microwave, heating in 30-second intervals.
Can I freeze Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken?
Absolutely! If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What if the chicken is dry after cooking?
To prevent dryness, make sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you find it’s already dry, you can slice it and toss it with a bit more chicken broth to moisten it before serving.
Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
This recipe is a protein-packed choice and is nut-free! If you're preparing this dish for someone with dairy allergies, consider using a plant-based butter alternative. Always double-check the chicken broth for any allergens if serving to those with sensitivities.
Can I swap out the chicken for another protein?
Very! You can replace the chicken breast with thighs or even shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just a few minutes! This flexibility makes the Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic theme a versatile favorite.
Savory Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken Delight
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast Use boneless, skinless for quick cooking.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil Adds flavor and moisture.
- to taste Salt Enhances flavors.
- to taste Pepper For a subtle heat.
For the Veggies
- 1 bunch asparagus Provides crunchy texture.
For the Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoon butter Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped Infuses savory aroma.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds a hint of spice.
For the Zesty Flavor
- ½ cup chicken broth Builds flavor in sauce.
- 1 juice of lemon Brightens flavor.
- 1 zest of lemon Adds aromatic touch.
- 2 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped Binds flavors together.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté asparagus until crisp-tender, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add butter and melt. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and dill. Return asparagus to the pan, tossing everything to coat in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
