Baked Lemon-Dill Chicken Breasts Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

This simple and delicious honey lemon chicken recipe is perfect for a quick dinner. The tender chicken breasts are infused with the bright flavors of lemon and a touch of sweetness from honey, making it a perfect balance of savory and citrusy goodness.

Ingredients

• 4 (5 ounce) boneless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 5 lemons
• 4 teaspoons dried dill weed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425F (220C).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow casserole dish. Brush each chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of honey.
3. Zest one of the lemons and cut it in half. Slice the remaining lemons into thin slices.
4. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken breasts and then sprinkle the chicken with the lemon zest.
5. In a small bowl, combine the dried dill, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
6. Cover the chicken with the lemon slices, and place 1 tablespoon of butter on each piece of chicken.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. You can use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165F (74C).
8. Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 349
• Fat: 16g
• Carbs: 19g
• Protein: 32g

Nutrition Breakdown

• Total Fat: 16g - 21% of Daily Value
• Saturated Fat: 9g - 43% of Daily Value
• Cholesterol: 117mg - 39% of Daily Value
• Sodium: 160mg - 7% of Daily Value
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g - 7% of Daily Value
• Dietary Fiber: 1g - 2% of Daily Value
• Total Sugars: 17g
• Protein: 32g - 64% of Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 1mg - 1% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 51mg - 4% of Daily Value
• Iron: 2mg - 11% of Daily Value
• Potassium: 331mg - 7% of Daily Value

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This delightful Baked Lemon-Dill Chicken Breasts recipe combines the fresh, zesty flavors of lemon with aromatic dill, making it a perfect choice for a light, flavorful dinner. Its an easy-to-make dish that is both satisfying and healthy, packed with protein and full of vibrant flavors.

History of the Dish

The combination of lemon and dill has been a staple in European cuisine for centuries. Both ingredients are known for their refreshing, tangy flavors that complement each other wonderfully. While dill has its origins in the Mediterranean, it became a popular herb in Scandinavia, where its used in various fish dishes, sauces, and soups. The pairing of lemon and dill with chicken, however, is a more modern approach in American cuisine, often seen in lighter, health-conscious recipes.

Regional Variations

Though this dish is rooted in American cuisine, the use of lemon and dill is common in many other parts of the world, especially in Europe. In Scandinavian countries, dill is often paired with fish or potatoes, while the combination of lemon and dill is frequently used in Greek and Turkish cooking. These cultures also embrace the freshness and lightness that this pairing brings, whether in marinades, sauces, or roasted meats.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Compared to other baked chicken recipes, the Baked Lemon-Dill Chicken stands out due to its simplicity and freshness. The use of dill, a delicate herb, imparts a subtle, anise-like flavor, which contrasts with the bold and smoky spices of other chicken dishes like Cajun or BBQ chicken. Additionally, this recipe uses honey, which provides a light sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon, offering a unique balance of flavors that is less commonly found in more traditional, spiced chicken dishes.

Where It's Served

This dish is often served as a main course in family dinners or casual gatherings. It pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad. The light yet flavorful profile makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a health-conscious meal. Its also commonly featured in meal-prep menus, as the flavors improve when stored and reheated. You may find this dish in various home kitchens, casual restaurants, and even at holiday tables where a lighter alternative to heavier meats is preferred.

Interesting Facts

• The use of dill in cooking dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was valued for both its culinary and medicinal properties.
• Lemon, on the other hand, is a relatively recent addition to European diets, introduced to the Mediterranean through trade routes in the 12th century.
• Honey has been used as a natural sweetener for thousands of years, often paired with herbs and citrus in ancient recipes to create balanced flavors.
• Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins in the world and has been a staple in nearly every cuisine, making dishes like this one universally appealing.

This Baked Lemon-Dill Chicken Breasts recipe brings together centuries of culinary tradition into a simple, contemporary dish that will surely be a hit in any home.

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