As I poured the shimmering golden butter into the skillet, I felt the excitement of a weeknight dinner transformed. This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is my go-to recipe when I crave something quick yet wholesome. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—golden chicken cooked to perfection in a rich, savory garlic sauce, all in just one pan. Plus, the fresh zing of lemon and fragrant dill makes each bite bright and uplifting. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting friends for a light summer meal, this recipe hits the spot with its delightful flavors and minimal clean-up. Ready to create a dish that feels special yet fits seamlessly into your busy schedule? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Chicken So Irresistible?

Simplicity: This one-pan recipe is designed for quick weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.

Zesty Brightness: The combination of fresh lemon juice and dill elevates the dish, making it a refreshing choice.

Versatile Vegetables: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies! Green beans or zucchini work beautifully.

One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy an effortless clean-up while savoring the rich butter and garlic sauce mixed with tender chicken.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy family night or a casual gathering, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Pair it with some Garlic Roasted Vegetables for a colorful, wholesome meal that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Chicken Breast – a tender protein option; you can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
Salt & Pepper – essential seasonings; opt for sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best taste.

• For the Sauce

Butter – creates a rich, creamy base; vegan butter is a great substitute for a dairy-free alternative.
Garlic (chopped) – adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor potential.
Red Pepper Flakes – introduce a hint of heat; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
Chicken Broth – forms the sauce base; low-sodium broth helps keep the dish balanced and healthy.
Lemon Juice & Zest – brings brightness and acidity; always use fresh lemons for vibrant flavor.
Fresh Dill – adds a fragrant touch; substituting with parsley works well if dill is unavailable.

• For Sautéing

Olive Oil – essential for sautéing; use avocado oil for a higher smoke point if desired.

• For the Vegetables

Asparagus – adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color; swap with green beans or zucchini for variety.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

Step 1: Cook the Asparagus
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of asparagus and sauté for 3–5 minutes until the asparagus is crisp-tender and bright green. Transfer the cooked asparagus to a plate and set aside, keeping the flavors from the sauté in the skillet for the next steps.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, season 1 pound of chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spice
With the skillet still over medium heat, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the remaining butter in the pan. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, being cautious not to burn it, which could make the dish bitter. This adds a flavorful base to your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly for a richer taste in your lemon and dill butter garlic sauce.

Step 5: Add Lemon and Dill
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the juice and zest of 1 lemon along with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill. This will brighten the sauce and enhance the overall dish. Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet, tossing everything gently, ensuring the asparagus is well coated with the vibrant butter garlic sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully plate the Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus, spooning extra sauce over the chicken and asparagus for maximum flavor. This delightful one-pan meal can be served immediately alongside rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.

Storage Tips for Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

Meal Prep: This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken can be doubled for meal prep; portion into containers for simple grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Expert Tips for Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken

Cook Evenly: Make sure your chicken pieces are of similar thickness to ensure they cook evenly at the right temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs when possible, as they enhance the overall flavor of the Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken.
Adjust Heat: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance—less for mild, more for a zesty kick.
Deglaze Well: When making the sauce, use a wooden spoon to scrape up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan; they add depth to your dish.
Customizable Veggies: Remember, you can easily swap asparagus for other veggies like green beans or zucchini for a personal touch to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors while saving you time during busy weeknights. Additionally, the asparagus can be washed and trimmed ahead of time, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the chicken until golden and complete the sauce as instructed. With these prep steps, you’ll enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals that come together with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken?

Savor the delightful flavors of your main dish by pairing it with complementary sides that elevate your meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, rich texture of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the zesty chicken, making each bite feel indulgent.
Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing salad laden with fresh herbs provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and asparagus.
Garlic Bread: This crusty delight is perfect for mopping up the buttery sauce, transforming every bite into a comforting experience.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and slight bitterness create a wonderful contrast to the lemony sauce, enhancing the overall flavor explosion.
Lemon Rice: Infusing rice with lemon zest and dill mirrors the dish’s flavors, uniting your meal with a burst of citrus goodness.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A cool, crisp salad dressed with light vinaigrette offers contrast, refreshing the palate between bites of savory chicken.
Sparkling White Wine: The effervescence and acidity of a chilled white wine complement the dish beautifully, making every sip a celebration.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, this light and fruity palate cleanser prepares you for your next flavorful adventure after the rich main course.

Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Variations

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own with these tasty twists!

Veggie Swap: Replace asparagus with green beans or zucchini for a different flavor and texture.
Protein Switch: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Herb Twist: Try adding thyme or parsley in place of dill for a fresh spin on the flavor profile.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce that comforts the soul.
Citrus Uplift: Experiment with lime or orange juice and zest for a vibrant citrus kick.
Noodle Boost: Serve over lemon garlic orzo to add an exciting twist to your one-pan meal. If you’re looking for a tender, flavorful companion, check out this Orzo Lemon Garlic dish!
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to ignite your taste buds.
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted almond slices or walnuts for an additional crunch and earthy flavor profile.

Customize your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken, and watch your family’s faces light up with each delicious bite!

Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Recipe FAQs

What type of asparagus should I use for this recipe?
Fresh asparagus is ideal as it provides a vibrant color and crunchy texture. Look for bright green stalks with closed tips. Stay clear of any with dark spots or wilting. If you can’t find fresh asparagus, you can swap it out for green beans or zucchini, which also work wonderfully in this dish!

How should I store leftovers of Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken and sauce. Just ensure they’re in a freezer-safe container and consumed within 3 months for the best flavor!

Can I freeze this dish? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken cool completely. Then, transfer the chicken and sauce into a zip-top freezer bag or a suitable food container. Lay the bag flat in your freezer for easy stacking and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop to preserve moisture.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
To ensure evenly cooked chicken, make sure your pieces are of similar thickness. If some parts are thick and others thin, you can pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe is naturally gluten-free, those with dairy sensitivities can easily substitute the butter with a vegan alternative to create a dairy-free dish. Always check labels for chicken broth to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

How long can I keep this dish in the fridge?
You can store your Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently to avoid drying it out!