Creamy Dill Chicken: A Fresh and Comforting One-Pan Dinner

Some recipes strike the perfect balance between comfort food and fresh flavors, and creamy dill chicken is one of them. Juicy chicken breasts or thighs are seared until golden, then simmered in a velvety cream sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and plenty of fresh dill. The result is a dish that’s rich yet bright, cozy yet refreshing—a meal that feels special but is simple enough for a busy weeknight.

I first came across creamy dill chicken at a Scandinavian-inspired café, where dill was used generously in everything from fish dishes to creamy sauces. Intrigued, I recreated the dish at home, and it quickly became a family favorite. Dill’s fresh, slightly tangy flavor complements the cream sauce beautifully, making this dish a standout on any dinner table.

What Is Creamy Dill Chicken?

Creamy dill chicken is a skillet-based chicken recipe featuring a garlic and cream sauce brightened with fresh dill and lemon. Dill is a staple herb in Northern and Eastern European cooking, often paired with poultry, fish, and potatoes. Here, it adds a refreshing note to an otherwise rich sauce, creating balance and depth.

Unlike heavy cream-based dishes that can feel overly indulgent, this recipe is lightened by fresh herbs and citrus, making it both satisfying and refreshing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and flavorful – Dill and lemon keep the sauce from feeling too heavy.

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 40 minutes.

• One-pan wonder – Minimal cleanup required.

• Family-friendly – A crowd-pleaser for weeknights or dinner parties.

• Versatile – Pairs with pasta, rice, potatoes, or vegetables.

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Ingredients for Creamy Dill Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Creamy Dill Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

• ½ cup fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes & Add-Ins:

• Fresh parsley

• Crumbled feta (for a Mediterranean twist)

• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes (for mild heat)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter.

2. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Flavor

1. Deglaze pan with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits for flavor.

2. Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer 3–4 minutes.

3. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream.

Step 4: Add Dill and Finish Chicken

1. Stir fresh dill into the sauce.

2. Return chicken to skillet, nestling into the sauce.

3. Simmer 5–7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with more dill and parsley if desired.

2. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or potatoes with extra sauce spooned on top.

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Serving Suggestions

Creamy dill chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Starches – Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted baby potatoes.

• Vegetables – Steamed green beans, asparagus, or roasted carrots.

• Salads – A crisp cucumber and tomato salad for freshness.

• Bread – Crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the cream and herbs beautifully.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Dill Chicken

• Use fresh dill – Dried dill won’t give the same bright flavor.

• Don’t overcook chicken – Remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F internal temperature.

• Add lemon gradually – Start with juice, then taste before adding zest.

• Let sauce thicken gently – Simmer on low heat for a silky texture.

• Make it lighter – Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.

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Variations of Creamy Dill Chicken

This dish is highly adaptable. Try one of these variations:

• Creamy Dill Chicken with Mushrooms – Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.

• Mediterranean Version – Add artichoke hearts, olives, and feta.

• Creamy Dill Chicken Pasta – Toss cooked pasta directly into the skillet sauce.

• Spicy Dill Chicken – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.

• Low-carb version – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer – Freeze chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.

• Reheating – Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent sauce separation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh dill is strongly recommended. If using dried, start with 1–2 teaspoons and adjust to taste.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and often more flavorful.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
Yellow mustard or a teaspoon of horseradish will add similar tang.

Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, when served with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 430

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 1g

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Conclusion

Creamy dill chicken is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. With its silky sauce, zesty lemon, and refreshing dill, it strikes the perfect balance of richness and brightness. It’s a versatile dish that works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for entertaining guests.

Serve it over pasta, potatoes, or rice, and don’t forget extra bread to soak up the sauce. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite in so many kitchens—it’s cozy, elegant, and incredibly delicious.

So grab some fresh dill, a splash of cream, and a skillet, and make this comforting yet fresh dish tonight.

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