This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a fresh and vibrant dish that comes together in just one pan. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic dill, and rich garlic butter infuses the chicken with incredible depth of flavor. The asparagus adds a crisp, tender bite that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is both wholesome and delicious. The light, citrusy sauce enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for those who love fresh, bold flavors with minimal effort. Serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the asparagus around the chicken, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Sprinkle with dill before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus – A Fresh & Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Introduction
This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a light, flavorful, and wholesome meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. The combination of juicy, pan-seared chicken, crisp-tender asparagus, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce infused with fresh dill and lemon makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal-prep option, or a low-carb dish, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of juicy chicken, tender asparagus, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce infused with lemon and dill creates a dish that’s both refreshing and comforting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for a last-minute meal.
- Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein and packed with vitamins from the asparagus.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Perfectly Balanced: The buttery garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon and fresh dill.
Key Ingredients & Their Benefits
Chicken Breasts
- A lean protein source that’s low in fat and high in essential nutrients.
- You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Asparagus
- A nutrient-dense vegetable loaded with fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K.
- Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture to the dish.
Garlic Butter Sauce
- Butter & Garlic: Creates a rich, aromatic base for the sauce.
- Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds a zesty, citrusy brightness that enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Dill: A fresh herb that complements the lemon and butter beautifully.
- Dijon Mustard & Honey: Helps balance acidity and adds a slight depth of flavor.
Tips for Success
-
Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking:
If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them lightly to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. -
Don’t Overcook the Asparagus:
The asparagus should be bright green and slightly crisp when done. Cooking it for too long can make it mushy. -
Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste:
- Want it tangier? Add more lemon juice.
- Prefer a creamier sauce? Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Like a little heat? Increase the red pepper flakes.
-
Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with roasted potatoes, rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- A light side salad with a lemon vinaigrette makes a great refreshing complement.
How to Make Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus
1️⃣ Season & Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
2️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter in the same skillet, then sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, honey, and chicken broth, bringing it to a light simmer.
3️⃣ Add Asparagus & Finish the Dish:
- Place the asparagus in the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat.
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill and serve immediately.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap the Protein: Use salmon, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.
- Go Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the asparagus can become mushy.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a simple yet elegant meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fats: 15g
Conclusion
This Lemon and Dill Butter Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a foolproof recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal or a healthy dinner option, this dish brings together the best of fresh, flavorful ingredients in just one pan. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s both light and satisfying!