Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts: A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner Recipe

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than these baked lemon dill chicken breasts! This recipe is packed with bright, zesty flavors and is incredibly simple to make. Chicken breasts can sometimes be bland, but the lemon and dill create a wonderfully aromatic and juicy dish that the whole family will love.

This recipe is also a great way to incorporate healthy protein into your diet. Baking the chicken keeps it lean and tender, and the fresh ingredients provide essential vitamins and nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success.

## Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Recipe

* **Simple Ingredients:** You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in under 30 minutes.
* **Flavorful and Juicy:** The lemon and dill create a bright, zesty flavor that infuses the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.
* **Healthy and Lean:** Baking the chicken is a healthy cooking method that keeps it lean and nutritious.
* **Versatile:** This chicken is delicious on its own, served with a side of vegetables, or used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
* **Family-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild and refreshing flavor of this dish.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

* **Chicken Breasts:** 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
* **Lemon:** 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
* **Fresh Dill:** 2 tablespoons, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon
* **Black Pepper:** ½ teaspoon
* **Optional:** Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder (for extra flavor)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking Dish:** A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For preparing the marinade.
* **Lemon Zester:** For zesting the lemon.
* **Lemon Juicer:** For juicing the lemon (optional).
* **Knife and Cutting Board:** For chopping the dill and garlic.
* **Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly baked lemon dill chicken breasts:

### Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped dill, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined. This marinade is the key to infusing the chicken with flavor and keeping it moist during baking.

* **Pro Tip:** For a more intense lemon flavor, let the marinade sit for 10-15 minutes before adding the chicken. This allows the flavors to meld together.

### Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the mixing bowl with the marinade. Turn the chicken to coat each breast evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.

* **Safety Tip:** If marinating for more than 2 hours, be sure to keep the chicken refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth.

### Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking chicken breasts, ensuring they cook through without drying out.

### Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the bottom of the dish.

### Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish

Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Discard the remaining marinade. Do not overcrowd the baking dish, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.

### Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the breast. The chicken is done when the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

* **Important Note:** Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Start checking the temperature after 20 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.

### Step 7: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Tent the baking dish loosely with foil to keep the chicken warm while it rests.

### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the baked lemon dill chicken breasts hot. Garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. This chicken is delicious served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.

## Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon Dill Chicken

* **Pound the Chicken Breasts:** For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures that the chicken cooks through evenly and prevents the edges from drying out.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature (165°F/74°C).
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh lemon and dill will provide the best flavor. If using dried dill, reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon.
* **Marinate for Longer:** The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Marinating overnight is ideal.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or garlic to suit your preferences.
* **Add a Touch of Sweetness:** A teaspoon of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness to the marinade and balance the acidity of the lemon.
* **Bake with Vegetables:** Add your favorite vegetables to the baking dish alongside the chicken for a complete and easy meal. Broccoli, asparagus, carrots, and potatoes are all great options.
* **Use a Cast Iron Skillet:** Baking the chicken in a cast iron skillet will give it a beautiful sear and add extra flavor.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Lemon Herb Chicken:** Substitute the dill with other fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
* **Garlic Lemon Butter Chicken:** Add a few tablespoons of melted butter to the marinade for a richer flavor.
* **Spicy Lemon Chicken:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
* **Dijon Lemon Chicken:** Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for a tangy flavor.
* **Chicken Thighs:** Substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicy option. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as chicken thighs may require a longer cooking time.
* **Vegan Option:** Marinate and bake thick slices of firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegan alternative. Use a similar marinade and baking time as the chicken.

## Serving Suggestions

These baked lemon dill chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **With Roasted Vegetables:** Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or potatoes for a healthy and complete meal.
* **Over Rice or Quinoa:** Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a satisfying and nutritious dish.
* **In Salads:** Slice the chicken and add it to your favorite salad for a protein-packed lunch or dinner.
* **In Sandwiches or Wraps:** Use the chicken as a filling for sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings.
* **With Pasta:** Toss the chicken with your favorite pasta and a light lemon sauce for a quick and easy pasta dish.
* **As a Main Course:** Serve the chicken on its own with a side of bread or rolls for a simple and satisfying meal.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover baked lemon dill chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the chicken in the oven, microwave, or skillet. To reheat in the oven, place the chicken in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the microwave, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

* Calories: 250-300
* Protein: 40-45g
* Fat: 5-10g
* Carbohydrates: 2-3g

*Please note that nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

## Conclusion

This baked lemon dill chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!

Enjoy!

## Recipe Card

**Baked Lemon Dill Chicken Breasts**

**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Marinating time:** 30 minutes to overnight
**Cook time:** 20-25 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each)
* 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
* 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ½ teaspoon black pepper

**Instructions:**

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped dill, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in the bowl and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place in the baking dish in a single layer. Discard remaining marinade.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

**Notes:**

* For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
* Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* Marinating overnight is ideal for the best flavor.

Enjoy!